Detroit reliever Joel Zumaya recently touched 100 mph on the radar gun with a pitch. The Tigers need him healthy and successful to have any hope at the playoffs. (AP photo) Tigers Late ■ The Tigers faced the Seattle Mariners too late to make Friday’s edition of The Mining Journal.

DETROIT (AP) — The Tigers’ flame-thrower is back and, after a few false starts, seems to be heating up.

For at least one pitch, the radar gun read 99 mph during Joel Zumaya’s 1 2-3 inning stint in Monday’s win over the Minnesota Twins.

It’s a step in the right direction for the reliever who became one of the most popular athletes in Michigan by throwing triple-digit pitches.

‘‘I’m just coming back and trying to do a little bit more than I’m supposed to,’’ Zumaya said.

Zumaya returned from the disabled list June 20. In his third appearance, he gave up three walks, a hit and a run.

‘‘It seems like I didn’t even go through spring training,’’ he said.

But his recent performances signal improvement. Zumaya had saved one game in five appearances entering Thursday night’s game in Seattle. Since his disappointing game against St. Louis on June 25, Zumaya has not given up any runs or walks.