Daniel Norris returns to Detroit Tigers after cancer surgery

Pitcher Daniel Norris was called up Wednesday to join the Detroit Tigers for the first time since undergoing cancer surgery last fall.

To make room on the roster before a game with the Washington Nationals, the Tigers optioned outfielder Tyler Collins to Triple-A Toledo.

Norris had surgery in October for a cancerous growth in his thyroid but returned this spring and was competing for the No. 5 spot in the starting rotation until he suffered a back injury.

Beginning the season with Toledo, Norris struggled to an 0-3 record with a 9.98 ERA in 15 1/3 innings, but he is still considered one of the organization's top pitching prospects.

Norris came to the Tigers last season as part of the trade for left-hander David Price. In 13 starts last year, he posted a 3.75 ERA.

Upon Norris' return, he is expected to pitch out of Detroit's bullpen.

Collins had two hits in 20 at-bats with the Tigers this season.