by Jon Paul Morosi

Guillen's agent, Peter Greenberg, said Monday that there could be a drop-dead date on the decision to have surgery sometime in July, in order to afford Guillen the best chance at making a full recovery before the 2010 season.

Greenberg acknowledged that off-season surgery is a possibility, even if the 33-year-old returns to action this year.

"He is trying to do everything he can to avoid surgery, especially since it's his throwing shoulder," Greenberg said.

According to that timetable, Tigers officials should have definitive word on Guillen's status before the July 31 non-waiver trade deadline. A power bat is currently one of the team's biggest needs; Detroit ranks among the bottom third of major league teams in production from both corner outfield spots.

Guillen has consulted with three surgeons and been diagnosed with stretched ligaments, some rotator cuff fraying and a bone bruise. He is currently rehabilitating with a trainer in Miami.

"He is going to try this for a few weeks and take it from there," Greenberg said.

Guillen was arguably the most valuable all-around hitter on the Detroit team that won the American League pennant in 2006. But he has hit only two home runs since last year's All-Star break and has been injured for much of that time.

Guillen is among the players who have not maintained their past performance levels since agreeing to long-term extensions with the Tigers. After this season, two years and $26 million will remain on the $48 million deal he signed in 2007.