"All signs seem to be positive for the return of Detroit Tigers outfielder Magglio Ordonez.

For the third consecutive day, Tigers manager Jim Leyland spoke in optimistic terms when asked today about Ordonez, who has been on the disabled list since May 11 with right ankle weakness.

"Magglio was outstanding again yesterday," Leyland said. "I had a brief talk with him. He felt great."

Ordonez was eligible to come off the disabled list Thursday, but it is very likely that he will go on a rehabilitation assignment before returning to the Tigers lineup. He went through hitting drills for the third consecutive day, and the reviews have been positive so far.

Leyland spoke at length Saturday afternoon about what a healthy Ordonez could mean to the Tigers, who have struggled offensively."