The Tigers recalled Valencia from Triple-A Toledo on Monday.
Valencia didn't deserve to be sent back down in the first place after going 5-for-12 with a pair of home runs in his first stint with the big club earlier this month. He didn't have to wait long for another opportunity, as the rookie will replace the injured Kerry Carpenter (foot) on the roster. Valencia could see some starts at designated hitter in Carpenter's stead, though regular playing time for the 26-year-old isn't a given.