DETROIT — Dontrelle Willis and the Detroit Tigers got good news today when a MRI revealed he has tendinitis in his right knee.

The Tigers said the pitcher had a cortisone shot to reduce inflammation and was fitted for a brace to provide support when he returns to Lakeland, Fla., later this week to resume a program designed to help him regain control.

A month ago, the Tigers sent Willis to their spring training complex. The 2005 runner-up for the NL's Cy Young Award and 2003 NL Rookie of the Year gave up 21 walks in 11 1-3 innings over four starts and a relief appearance.

Detroit signed him a $29 million, three-year deal after acquiring him and Miguel Cabrera in a trade last winter with the Florida Marlins.