Game 25

Busy couple of days for me coming up so there might not be much from me. I will be in the stands tonight, the didn't go to extra innings Saturday, so hopefully I'll be there for a win tonight. It's Daniel Cabrera (who was lights out vs. the Tigers last time) against Jeremy Bonderman who (just like me) is still looking for his first win of the year.

Post-game:

Tigers 8 Orioles 4

Jeremy Bonderman finally gets some run support, and gets his first win of the year. Pitchers of the AL, do not anger Gary Sheffield. Daniel Cabrera plunked him in the first and in the fifth the two had to be restrained after the benches emptied after Miguel Tejada took exception to a brushback pitch. Later, Sheffield then took one of Cabrera's pitches and deposited it 12 rows deep in leftfield. Fernando Rodney looks to be back in form as he pitched 2 1/3 perfect innings to close out the game. Magglio Ordonez is still en fuego, getting 2 RBIS on 2 hits and 2 walks. Best news of all, I am no longer convinced I am a jinx.

Tiger Hero:
Gary Sheffield. Finally goes deep at the CoPa, and racks up three runs along the way. This is the guy we all expected.

Tiger Zero:
The weather. On and off rain made me glad I brought my poncho, and a little chilly for what turned out to be nearly a 3 1/2 hour game.

Tigers Record:
W - L
14 - 11

Game 24

This one could hurt. The Twins offense looks like its coming around, and get a struggling Mike Maroth. The tigers needing a win to stop a mini-slide get Johan Santana. Some good news, Pudge is back in line-up after being off the past two days with a sore foot.

Line-ups:
Detroit (12-11)
I Rodriguez C
P Polanco 2B
G Sheffield DH
M Ordonez RF
C Guillen SS
C Monroe LF
M Thames 1B
B Inge 3B
C Granderson CF

Minnesota (14-10)
N Punto 3B
J Bartlett SS
J Mauer C
M Cuddyer RF
J Morneau 1B
T Hunter CF
M Redmond DH
J Kubel LF
L Rodriguez 2B

Pitchers:
Tigers - Mike Maroth LHP (2-0, 5.06 ERA)
Twins - Johan Santana LHP (3-2, 3.44 ERA)

Post-game:

Tigers 4 Twins 3

That's why they play the game. That's the frustrating thing about the Tigers this years, is that you don't know what team you're going to get on any given night. Yesterday we get the team that got shelled and couldn't do anything right. Today we get the team that gets the step-up performance out of nowhere (Inge) and knocks off the best pitcher in baseball. That's why I love baseball. On the verge of a disastrous series sweep, the Tigers pull together an get a hard fought win. Now the test is to follow it up with more wins against Baltimore starting tomorrow.

Tiger Hero:
Brandon Inge. 3 for 3 with the walk-off HR. Let's hope that day's like these are not anomalies.

Tiger Zero:
Pudge. Maybe the foot was still bothering him, as he was 0 for 4 with 3 strikeouts.

Tigers Record:
W - L
13 - 11

Quick News & Game 23

I have had a lot of free time to devote to this site due to my lack of employment. Well that will no longer be the case, since last week I had a few interview, and starting May 7th I will be back among the working. So most posts will be written after work, which probably means after games start. So more wrap-ups, less previews.

Speaking of previews, to this afternoons game. It looks like a favorable match-up for the Tigers with Justin Verlander going up against Carlos Silva and his career 4.30 ERA. But then again most match-ups favor the Tigers, it all depends on what the Tigers bullpen can do. Since I will be in attendance today, I can almost guarantee an extra innings game since I am 3 for 3 on that so far this year.

Line-ups:
(total guesses let's see how I do)
Detroit (12-10)
C Granderson CF
P Polanco 2B
G Sheffield DH
M Ordonez RF
C Guillen SS
I Rodriguez C
S Casey 1B
C Monroe LF
B Inge 3B

Minnesota (13-10)
L Rodriguez 2B
N Punto 3B
J Mauer DH
M Cuddyer RF
J Morneau 1B
T Hunter CF
M Redmond C
J Kubel LF
J Bartlett SS

Pitchers:
Tigers - Justin Verlander RHP (1-0, 2.08)
Twins - Carlos Silva RHP (1-1, 2.74 ERA)

Post-game:

Tigers 3 Twins 11

Guh...if it wasn't such a beautiful day out, I'd be angrier. Something seems off about this year's Tiger team, so far. I'm 0 for 4 on the year, the last Tiger win I saw in person was game 2 of the World Series. The situation doesn't get any better with Johan Santana coming in tomorrow.


Tiger Hero:
Placido Polanco. No disrespect to Thomas Hearns, but Polly's the new "Hitman" in Detroit.

Tiger Zero:
Everyone else. The team is still above .500, but not for long if games like these are going to be the norm.

Tigers Record:
W - L
12 - 11

Game 22

The Tigers game is postponed, but still a busy night for my remote control, with the Red Wings starting their second round, the Pistons in game 3 of their series vs. Orlando, and brand new episodes of The Office and Scrubs.

No word on how the rotation will work out against the Twins this weekend. With Justin Verlander scheduled to start tomorrow, it will be interesting to see how the rotation sets up. I'm assuming Jim Leyland will want his ace in Jeremy Bonderman to face off against Johan Santana on Sunday. So will they go in order or will someone miss a start?

Game 21

The Tigers arrive in Chicago for phase two of the mini-trip. Just as the bats have seaming started to warm up, they will face cold and rainy weather tonight. Getting the lead early could be huge, as the rain might shorten the game. Riding the pine tonight for the Tigers are Sean Casey, who looked like he was starting to come around; and Carlos Guillen, who's fielding doesn't mix well with wet conditions. Lucky for Tigers pitching Jim Thome is out as well.

Line-ups:
Detroit (11-9)
I Rodriguez C
P Polanco 2B
G Sheffield DH
M Ordonez RF
M Thames 1B
C Monroe LF
B Inge 3B
O Infante SS
C Granderson CF

Chicago (11-8)
D Erstad CF
T Iguchi 2B
P Konerko 1B
A Pierzynski C
J Crede 3B
R Mackowiak RF
P Ozuna LF
J Uribe SS
B Anderson DH


Pitchers:
Tigers - Chad Durbin RHP (0-1, 10.54 ERA)
White Sox - John Danks LHP (0-2, 5.06 ERA)

Post-game:

Tigers 6 White Sox 2

Chad Durbin pitched a career game, and arguably put up the best performance of a Tiger pitcher so far this season. The top 4 hitters were on fire, with 10 of the Tigers 13 hits coming from them. Magglio Ordonez and Placido Polanco did most of the damage tonight driving in all of the Tigers runs, with 3 RBIs a piece. Magglio is on fire hitting 9 for 11 in the past three games. Sheffield had two hits, one being a double, and looks back on track hitting wise. Speaking of doubles the Tigers hit 5 tonight, tow from Pudge. But the main story of the game was the incredible performance by Chad Durbin. While he had the luck of not facing Jim Thome or Jermaine Dye, he still was amazing. He retired the first 7 batters he faced. He recorded strikeout to end innings 1-4. He got out of a jam in the 5th with two on and one out. after the 5th he sat down every White Sox hitter he faced. Joel Zumaya came in the replace him in the ninth and spoiled the shutout with two bases loaded walks, which brought in Todd Jones to get the save. Other than the ending it was a solid game for the Tigers. It looks like everything is starting to come together.

Tiger Hero:
Chad Durbin. 8 innings pitched: 3 hits, 0 runs, 0 walks, 9 K's

Tiger Zero:
Joel Zumaya. Made the game waaaay closer than it had to be. 2/3 of an inning. 1 Hit batter, 4 straight walks??? C'mon Joel, it doesn't matter how hard you can throw if it's outside the strike zone.

Tigers Record:
W - L
12 - 9

Game 20

Jeremy Bonderman heads to mound still in search of his first win of the season. Historically he has pitched well against the Angels, with a 2-0 record in 4 starts. In those starts he struck out 26, allowed 7 runs and held hitters to a .194 average. So it's reasonable to think that Bondo's streak of quality starts will continue. To get him the win, Tiger batter will be facing another Angels pitcher coming off of the DL. Kelvim Escobar is making his first start since leaving a game vs. Oakland on April 8th. In two starts this year he has not made it through the 6th inning. If the Tigers can run up the pitch count like they did against Weaver, it could be a long day for Halos pitching.

Line-ups:
Detroit (11-8)
C Granderson CF
M Thames LF
G Sheffield DH
M Ordonez RF
C Guillen SS
I Rodriguez C
S Casey 1B
B Inge 3B
N Perez 2B

Los Angeles (9-10)
G Matthews CF
O Cabrera SS
V Guerrero RF
G Anderson LF
C Kotchman 1B
K Morales DH
M Izturis 3B
J Molina C
E Aybar 2B

Pitchers:
Tigers - Jeremy Bonderman RHP (0-0, 2.25 ERA)
Angels - Kelvim Escobar RHP (1-1, 3.18 ERA)

Post-game:

Tigers 8 Angels 9

A wild one in Orange County today. The Angels got to Bonderman early, racking up seven runs early on him. Bondo and the Tigers fought back, however, with Bonderman not allowing a hit after the first three innings, and the Tigers scoring 7 to take the lead in the ninth, before a Todd Jones blown save (mostly aided by a misplayed breaking ball by Pudge) allowed the Angels to tie it up in the bottom of the 9th. Jones didn't need any help getting the loss, with a poorly made throw to first, reminiscent of the fielding in the World Series, that put a runner in scoring position with no one out. A sac bunt and a high chopper later, the Tigers had lost. It should be noted that Fernando Rodney pitched two perfect innings striking out three, and Sean Casey also added a two hit game. All in all the Tigers fought back in a game they should have been out of, but just couldn't finish it out. Hopefully all the offense generated in these past to games will find its way to Chicago.


Tiger Hero:
Magglio Ordonez. 3 for 3, with 3 RBI, 3 runs, 2 BB, and the go ahead HR in the top of the 9th.

Tiger Zero:
Todd Jones. Whether or not Pudge should of blocked that pitch in the 9th is debatable. What isn't is that Jones threw away the game literally with his errant toss in the bottom of the 10th.

Tigers Record:
W - L
11 - 9

Game 19

The Tigers' four game mini road trip begins tonight in Anaheim vs. the Angels. The Tigers can exact a measure of revenge against the Weaver family as Jeff's little brother Jered will be taking the mound tonight. This will be Jered's second start of the year after missing time with tendinitis. He pitched well but took the loss against Oakland in his first start. Also, beware of Vlad Guerrero, he is one of three (Joe Mauer and Matt Holliday being the others) with a higher batting average than Placido Polanco. My suggestion to Tiger pitching...walk him every time. It might be tough since he swings at everything, but it could be a good strategy. No Angel hitter has an average above .290, with the majority hovering around the .250 mark.

Line-ups:
Detroit (10-8)
C Granderson CF
P Polanco 2B
G Sheffield DH
M Ordonez RF
C Guillen SS
I Rodriguez C
S Casey 1B
C Monroe LF

Los Angeles (9-9)
G Matthews CF
O Cabrera SS
V Guerrero RF
G Anderson LF
R Quinlan 3B
S Hillenbrand DH
C Kotchman 1B
M Napoli C
M Izturis 2B

Pitchers:
Tigers - Mike Maroth LHP (2-0, 5.40 ERA)
Angels - Jered Weaver RHP (0-1, 4.50)

Post-Game:

Tigers 9 Angels 5

The Tigers attacked early and often, resulting in Jered Weaver's shortest outing of his two year career. He racked up 70 pitches in just 1 2/3rd innings, surrendering 7 runs (5 earned) on 7 hits and 2 walks. This time the bullpen was up to the task as they didn't allow a hit until Joel Zumaya gave up a Gary Matthews solo HR in the 9th. Jason Grilli , who was credited with the win, came on in the 5th inning with the bases loaded and got out of it unscathed. The only run Grilli gave up was due to a leadoff walk to Izturis, who scored on a Cabrera sac fly. Brandon Inge, despite not getting a hit had a few nice plays to make up for it with his glove, including fielding a bad hop grounder perfectly to get out of that bases loaded jam in the 5th inning. Gary Sheffield showed signs of turning it around with his first multi-hit game of the year.

Tiger Hero:
Curtis Granderson. Hit a leadoff HR to start the game, was a triple away from the cycle, and had a key outfield assist gunning down Vlad Guerrero at third.

Tiger Zero:
Mike Maroth. He was lucky that the Tigers had spotted him 7 runs, still he couldn't get through the fifth inning after throwing 105 pitches. He gave up 7 hits and walked 5 and was lucky to only have surrendered 3.

Tigers Record:
W - L
11 - 8

So far so Good

18 down 144 more to go. Through one-ninth of the season, the Tigers aren't the AL shredding juggernaut we had hoped they'd be. But being 10-8 isn't anything to be complaining about. Here's just a few notes as I have a little more time to kill before the Tigers first game on the West Coast.

Walk This Way:
The Tigers have drawn 18 walks with runners in scoring position with two outs. The down side is that the Tigers also have 16 strikeout and only 14 hits. But it shows the tigers can be patient when it counts, when the hitting starts up again (it sounds like a mantra...if we repeat it enough it will happen right?) that will mean more runs scored, and less pressure on the pitching staff.

Kowalski Kowality:
The Tigers staff leads the Majors with 12 quality starts, tied with San Fransisco. Justin Verlander and Jeremy Bonderman are a combined 8 for 8, ye they only have one win to show for it. The 8 quality starts are are better than the combined totals of Greg Maddux (1), Barry Zito (2), Johan Santana (2) and Curt Schilling (2). The New York Yankees staff only has 5 quality starts this year.

All Things Considered:
The Baltimore Orioles are 11-7 and second place in the AL East. The Kansas City Royals, took a weekend series from the AL Central leading Twins. The worst team the White Sox have faced is 8-10 Texas. That being said, maybe 10-8 isn't that bad of a record.

Shuffle up and Deal:
Out of the box suggestion for the Tigers batting order. Switch Carlos Guillen to lead-off, Curtis Granderson to 3rd, and Gary Sheffield to 5th. Guillen is doing what you want a lead off hitter to do. He is tied for the team lead in walks with 13, stolen bases with 3 and is just trailing Placido Polanco (.402) in OBP at .400. Curtis is having a great year, and his team leading 11 extra base hits (which is why his slugging percentage is .529) would do more damage if he had Guillen and Polanco to get on base ahead of him. Sheffield batting behind Ordonez might lead to Magglio getting more pitches to hit. I don't see many pitchers, going around Magglio to face Sheffield if he ever starts to hit like he should. As for the bottom of the line-up I would like to see Marcus Thames as a starter. Platoon Craig Monroe and Sean Casey for lefties and righties, with Marcus playing at first when Craig is in the line-up and in left field when Casey starts. If Marcus can handle first base I'd advocate starting him full time when Craig begins his annual July/August hot streak.

That's all I've got for now, the only question I have left is what's on Curtis Granderson's IPod?

Game 18

Justin Verlander heads to the mound today as the Tigers try to stop the bleeding and end their three game losing streak. Verlander might not be the best guy to turn things around as he is 1-4 with a 7.82 ERA vs. the White Sox in 5 career starts. His counter part for the White Sox though has not fared well this year in two of his three starts, giving up 10 earned runs on 12 hits. You also have to hope that Jim Leyland has them focused on today's game not the mini West Coast trip the Tigers leave for tomorrow. It looks like Leyland has chose to give Sheffield, Pudge, and Monroe the day off. I don't see how this line-up could of play any worse than the one yesterday.

Line-ups:
Detroit (9-8)
C Granderson CH
P Polanco 2B
O Infante DH
M Ordonez RF
C Guillen SS
M Thames LF
S Casey 1B
M Rabelo C
B Inge 3B

Chicago (9-7)
D Erstad CF
P Ozuna 2B
J Thome DH
P Konerko 1B
J Dye RF
A Pierzynski C
J Crede 3B
R Mackowiak LF
J Uribe SS

Pitchers:
Tigers - Justin Verlander (1-0, 1.42 ERA)
White Sox - Jon Garland (0-1, 4.66 ERA)

Post-game:

Tigers 6 White Sox 5 (12 innings)

Another extra inning game, this time a win. Today's game was almost a mirror image of yesterday's. The Tigers jumped out to an early lead, the bullpen relinquishes it,the the Tigers eventually falling behind. Just like Jose Contreras, Jon Garland was locked in after the first inning, retiring 18 straight before Carlos Guillen walked in the 7th. Sean Casey of all people was the first Tiger to get a hit since the 1st inning, two at bats after Guillen's walk. The ending was different his time as Marcus Thames took advantage of Bobby Jenks not being in the game and blasted a game tying 2 run shot with two out in the bottom of the ninth. Placido Polanco drove in first run of the game, and in the 12th inning he drove in the last with a single (what else?) allowing Pudge to score the winning run. There still are some things left to be desired in the way the Tigers played this game, and other recently, but a win is a win. Hopefully a win of this fashion can kick start another winning streak until they return home this weekend.

Tiger Hero:
Wil Ledezma and Jason Grilli. Ledezma had runners on 1st and 3rd with one out in the top of the ninth. He did what the Tigers bullpen hasn't been able to do lately, get outs with allowing runs. He got the double play to end the inning, allowed only two hits and a walk in the next two innings he pitched. Grilli came in a pitched a perfect 12th inning to get the win

Tiger Zero:
Tiger hitters inning 2-7. It would be nice to see the Tigers actually build on a lead after the first inning, and not have to rely the bullpen and late inning heroics.

Tigers Record:
W - L
10 - 8

Game 17

Nate Robertson need to be the stopped this afternoon. Jose Contreras might be the perfect guy to do that against. Contreras has walked a lot of batters this year and was shelled in his first start. But he has been better in the last two with a win, and a hard luck loss. Hopefully for the Tigers he reverts to his wild ways. Abbreviated pre-game, as I will be making my way down to the stadium shortly.

Line-ups:
Detroit (9-7)
TBD

Chicago (8-7)
TBD

Pitchers:
Tigers - Nate Robertson (2-1, 1.80 ERA)
White Sox - Jose Contreras (1-2, 6.00 ERA)

Post-game:

Tigers 5 White Sox 7 (10 innings)

Well another game I attend...another extra innings loss. It started off nicely with a grand slam in the first inning by Carlos Guillen, and Nate Robertson retired the first nine in a row. After the grand Slam White Sox starter didn't allow another base runner until Ordonez hit a solo shot with 2 out in the 6th inning. Fernando Rodney will suffer most of the wrath, but the whole team played a part in the loss. 3 errors and silent bats allowed the White Sox to creep back into the back after being down 4-0. With the loss, it guarantees the first series loss of the year.

Tiger Hero:
Not one Tiger deserves praise after the turd they laid this afternoon. Guillen might have gotten it if not for his lazy error in the 10th.

Tiger Zero:
Everyone. Three lazy errors, and only three hits after a four run first inning. Zumaya blew the lead just like every other reliever has this year. Until he starts hitting like the future Hall of Famerthat he is, Sheffield needs to stop complaining about foul tips and location and swing at the first pitch strikes that every White Sox pitcher has throw to him this series.

Tigers Record:
W - L
9 - 8

Game 16

The White Sox are in town this weekend for a three game set. In fact 5 of the next 7 games are against the Sox. In a ridiculous 4 game road trip, the Tigers head to Anaheim to play the Angels for two games before swinging by Chicago for another two games, before returning for the Twins at home next weekend. This series will be important for both teams to determine were they are and where they need to be. You don't need Joe Morgan to tell you that division games are important, but against Chicago there might be an added urgency to win. In the past few years The Sox have dominated, winning 35 of the 56 meetings since 2004. A good showing against the White Sox might be the start on something big. One good sign, possibly, is that six of the Sox seven losses are to AL Central opponents. As for the White Sox story this year, it has been similar to the Tigers: great pitching, not enough hitting. The Sox are 12th in the AL in runs scored, and are 3rd in the AL in runs allowed. Jim Thome is coming off a hot week (batting .500 with 3 HRs), and is a .300 hitter is his career against the Tigers; and the White Sox seem to think Mark Buerhle's no hitter earlier in the week is a springboard to better baseball for the team. This might not bode well for struggling Chad Durbin, who takes the mound tonight for the Tigers. If he gets roughed up tonight, at least the Tigers have the always tough Nate Robertson pitching tomorrow, and Justin Verlander to go on Sunday.

Line-ups:
Detroit (9-6)
I Rodriguez C
P Polanco 2B
G Sheffield DH
M Ordonez RF
C Guillen SS
C Monroe LF
M Thames 1B
O Infante CF
B Inge 3B


Chicago (7-7)
D Erstad CF
T Iguchi 2B
J Thome DH
P Konerko 1B
J Dye RF
A Pierzynski C
J Crede 3B
R Mackowiak LF
J Uribe SS

Pitchers:
Tigers - Chad Durbin RHP (0-1, 12.46 ERA)
White Sox - John Danks LHP (0-2, 3.97 ERA)

Post-game:

Tigers 5 White Sox 6

Chad Durbin did what he needed to do, but it still wasn't enough as the White Sox benefited from having the bases loaded with no outs in the 6th and brought the go ahead runs in. Bobby Seay and new addition from Toledo, Aquaman Aqualung Aquilino Lopez did very well in relief. The Tigers outhit the Sox, but just couldn't get the runners home. This game I expected a loss, so I;m not disappointed. It just puts the pressure on the Tiger bats to have a really good game tomorrow.

Tiger Hero:
Carlos Guillen. 2 for 4, 2 RBIs and a stolen base. Not a bad night's work

Tiger Zero:
Gary Sheffield. Sorry, the weather's warm, you're a Hall of Famer, swing the bat.

Tigers Record:
W - L
9 - 7

Game 15

Jeremy Bonderman will try to pick up his first win of the season today against the Royals. The only thing keeping Jeremy from having a couple notches in the win column, was run support. The Tigers seem to have gotten their bats in order, so that might not be a problem. In addition to the Royals, the Tigers might be battling the weather. The rain is supposed to come later in the afternoon, so hopefully they'll be able to get 9 innings in. At least I hope so, since I'll be in attendance today, and don't want to get rained on. If so, I guess the weather today is my penance for the great weather I experienced on Opening Day.

Line-ups:
Detroit (9-5)
C Granderson CF
P Polanco 2B
G Sheffield DH
C Guillen SS
S Casey 1B
C Monroe LF
M Thames RF
M Rabelo C
B Inge 3B

Kansas City (3-11)
D DeJesus CF
E German 2B
M Teahen RF
M Sweeney DH
R Gload 1B
A Gordon 3B
E Brown LF
J Buck C
T Pena SS

Pitchers:
Tigers - Jeremy Bonderman (0-0, 2.57 ERA)
Royals - Gil Meche (1-1, 3.10 ERA)

Post-game:

Tigers 3 Royals 4 (10 innings)

Yet another stellar Bonderman outing gets squandered by a bullpen collapse. Two games I've attended this year, both extra inning losses. Bonderman went 7 innings struck out 6 and allowed only one run on three hits. Todd Jones couldn't throw strikes in the 9th, but still was a Carlos Guillen stutter-step away from getting his 8th save. Instead Guillen was a split second late with his throw to first and Ross Gload was safe, with Mark Teahen scoring the tying run. Fernando Rodney got in a hole and left his 2-0 pitch over the plate and deposited it four rows behind me. Curtis Granderson, Placido Polanco, and Craig Monroe were the whole offense, collecting all eight hits for the Tigers. Another rough day for Gary Sheffield, who went 0 for 5 and left 5 on base. Sean Casey yet again was up with the bases loaded, this time he popped up just out of the infield. Let's hope the day off tomorrow recharges the Tigers for their series with Chicago this weekend.

Tiger Hero:
Jeremy Bonderman. He looks like the dark horse Cy Young candidate that I hoped him to be this preseason.

Tiger Zero:
Todd Jones. Now i"m sure after this there is an outcry to make Zumaya the closer, and ship Rodney off to Toledo. Rodney got behind 2-0 on a guy that has 11 hits in the 8 games he's played. Why he's only played eight games only Buddy Bell knows. So the home run, while not excused, is understandable. The walk to DeJesus, I get that too. He has been killing the Tigers, so you pitched around him. But guys with averages of .200 (Teahen), and .195 (Sweeney) you need to get out. Chalk it up to a bad day, and get 'em next time.

Tigers Record:
W - L
9 - 6

Bonus:
some photos I took today...

Sheff's Chefs were up and cheering all game for Gary.



Joel Zumaya warming up in the bullpen


What a Zumaya fastball looks like on a cameraphone...actually got it on the first try.

Game 14

It's a busy night for the Detroit sports fan. The Pistons tip off against the Toronto Raptors at 7:30. With only tow games left in the regular season most of the starters will see limited action to prepare for their playoff run. The only reason to tune in, is to see how Amir Johnson, Jason Maxiell, and Will Blalock do with some extra playing time. Around 10:00 in Calgary, the Red Wings will face the Flames looking to take a commanding 3-0 lead in their first round series. The Wings look focused and determined to erase memories of previous playoff performances. The Tigers get another crack at Jorge De La Rosa, who (possible aided by the weather) shut down the Tigers in their previous meeting. The Tigers aren't sending the usual suspects up against him either. Sean Casey, Curtis Granderson, and Brandon Inge all have the night off. Pudge is in the line-up, so Mike Rabelo will probably get the start tomorrow afternoon.

Line-ups:
Detroit (8-5)
I Rodriguez C
P Polanco 2B
G Sheffield DH
M Ordonez RF
C Guillen SS
C Monroe LF
M Thames 1B
O Infante CF
N Perez 3B

Kansas City (3-10)
D DeJesus CF
E German 2B
R Sanders RF
M Sweeney DH
E Brown LF
A Gordon 3B
R Shealy 1B
J LaRue C
T Pena SS

Pitchers:
Tigers - Mike Maroth (2-0, 4.91 ERA)
Royals - Jorge De La Rosa (1-1, 3.55 ERA)

Post-game:

Tigers 7 Royals 6

Before I get to the game, I want to get to something serious that I would have addressed sooner had I known. As you may have seen on other Tigers sites, one of the 32 slain in the Virginia Tech shootings was Brian Bluhm. He was a dedicated Tiger fan, and a regular with comments on blogs and message boards across the Internet. Being relatively new to the Tiger blogodome, I didn't really know him, nor was I fortunate enough to have him share his insight on my blog, but that does not make the loss of his life, or of the 31 others any less tragic to me. What it does is gives us in the Detroit area a face this incident, a name that we recognize. Someone we can mourn and feel a connection to. When we mourn him we also are mourning with the friends and family of the other 31 victims. Wherever you believe we go when we pass on, you can be sure Brian is there with the best seat in the house for all the baseball he can watch.
Here are a few of the sites with something to say about Brian:

• Bless You Boys
• Detroit Tigers Weblog
• Mack Avenue Tigers
• Tiger Tales
• Motown Sports thread
• The Cutoff Man
• Minor League Ball
• The Wayne Fontes Experience
• Danny Knobler
• Lynn Henning
• The Free Press
• Curtis Granderson
  

As for tonight's game, the offense was there pretty much throughout, with the Tigers scoring in 6 of the 8 innings in which they batted. The swung early and often collecting 8 hits and 6 K's. Any team looking to beat the tigers in the playoff might want to think about acquiring David DeJesus. He was 4 for 5 with 3 runs and 2 RBI tonight. He has 21 hits in 14 games vs. the Tigers. The pitching bounced back after a shaky 6th inning in which 4 runs were scored for Kansas City. Will Ledezma allowed two hits and three runs (one was charged to Maroth) in that inning, but only allowed two base runners on walks the rest of the way to get the win. Todd Jones came in a recorded his 7th save of the season. Omar Infante did well in centerfield for the ailing Curtis Granderson. same goes for Marcus Thames who hit his first home run of the season.

Tiger Hero:
Placido Polanco and Magglio Ordonez. Both had big bats and nice defensive plays to secure the tigers win tonight.

Tiger Zero:
Neifi Perez. Not much went wrong for the Tigers tonight, but I have to give it to someone. It goes to Neifi despite his sacrifice to put Omar Infante in scoring position in the 8th. Still he was the only Tiger starter not to reach base.

Tigers record:
W - L
9 - 5
1st Place AL Central
Tied for best record in the AL

Game 13

The Tigers are back at home after a 6-4 road trip, punctuated with cold weather and colder bats. While the offense only made an appearance for two games in the Toronto series, the pitching has been keeping them in games. Hopefully some home cooking can get the bats on track. Whether the windy weather here will play a part in tonight's game we'll have to wait and see. Another thing to look for is can Tiger's pitchers finally shut down David DeJesus and Mark Teahen, who seem to save their best performances for the Tigers. Can Justin Verlander continue his mastery of KC batters? He is undefeated against the royals with a sub 1 ERA. Of course this means he will get shelled tonight because I mentioned it.

Line-ups:
Detroit (7-4)
C Granderson CF
P Polanco 2B
G Sheffield DH
M Ordonez RF
C Guillen SS
I Rodriguez C
S Casey 1B
C Monroe LF
B Inge 3B

Kansas City (3-9)
D DeJesus CF
E German 2B
M Teahen RF
M Sweeney DH
A Gordon 3B
E Brown LF
R Shealy 1B
J Buck C
T Pena SS

Pitchers:
Tigers - Justin Verlander (0-0, 0.00 ERA)
Royals - Zach Greinke (1-1, 1.38)

Post-Game:

Tigers 12 Royals 5

Good things come to those who wait. The Tigers were patient at the plate drawing eight walks, leading to 12 runs and a victory. Zach Greinke didn't make it out of the first inning after racking up 49 pitches in 2/3 inning. Kansas City didn't help their pitchers with 2 errors, and a couple more misplayed balls that could have counted for errors, allowing innings to continue. Justin Verlander surrendered his first earned runs of the season, but other than a stint in the 2nd in which he allowed three doubles, he continued his solid pitching. He only gave up 2 additional hits after the 3 in the second, walked none, and struck out 6, including the side in the 3rd inning. Emil Brown was the only Royal that Tiger pitchers were unable to strikeout. The rest of the team combined for 12 K's. The Royals did continue their assault on Jose Mesa, notching two more runs on him with a home run by Ryan Shealy (who is a dead ringer for John C. Reilly ). Pudge did come up a little lame after popping out in the 8th, but he stayed in to catch the 9th, and is scheduled for a day off tomorrow.

Tiger Hero:
Pudge and Carlos Guillen. A combined 4 for 8, with 10 RBIs and two walks.

Tiger Zero:
Jose Mesa. Giving up two runs in 1/3 of inning, allowed to Royals to peek back into this game. It also made Jim Leyland go back to the bullpen. Todd Jones haters might have found a new target for their ire.

Tigers Record:
W - L
8 - 5
T-1st place

Game 12

I'm away from television for two days, and I miss a pitchers duel with both pitchers going in to extra innings, and a 4 run top of the ninth rally. Oh well. The series and the road trip ends this afternoon in Toronto. Regardless of the outcome today, the Tigers will return to home with a winning record, which makes for a successful road trip. This game on paper would appear to be in Detroit's favor. Tipping the scales the Tigers way has to be "Nasty" Nate Robertson. He goes up against Josh Towers, who gave up 10 hits in 5 2/3 innings in his last start vs. Kansas City. Maybe this is the day Gary Sheffield finally breaks out a multi-hit game.

Line-ups:
Detroit (7-4)
C Granderson CF
P Polanco 2B
G Sheffield RF
M Ordonez DH
C Guillen SS
I Rodriguez C
S Casey 1B
C Monroe LF
B Inge 3B

Toronto (6-5)
A Rios RF
A Hill 2B
V Wells CF
F Thomas DH
G Zaun C
L Overbay 1B
R Clayton SS
A Lind LF
J MacDonald 3B


Pitchers:
Detroit - Nate Robertson (2-0, 1.38 ERA)
Toronto - Josh Towers (0-1, 4.76 ERA)

Post-Game:

Tigers 1 Blue Jays 2

It looks like Nate Robertson's hard luck losses have spilled over into the new season. The Tiger bats could only muster up 3 hits in today's loss to the Blue Jays. didn't get to catch much of this game, as where I was watching most of the attention was focused on the Red Wings Game 2. But the Tigers all things considered had a successful road trip, arriving back home with more wins and losses. And a series split with a good Toronto team is nothing to be ashamed of.

Game 10

Will be away from the computer for this one. Lucky for everyone, great sites such as the Detroit Tigers Weblog, Bless You Boys, and Mack Ave. Tigers will have great previews and analysis. I'll be back for tomorrow afternoon's game and some post-game thoughts later tonight.

Site News

For some reason I can't access my hotmail account. So I've switched over to Gmail. The new way to reach my if you are so inclined in at rocknrye2680@gmail.com

Game 9

The Tigers make their way to Toronto after last night's 12 inning war of attrition against the Orioles. Will the climate controlled Rogers Center (or is it Centre? Silly Canadians) be the answer to the Tigers offensive struggles? After the next four games the answer should be a little more clear. The Tigers need a good game out of Mike Maroth, as the bullpen will more than likely be without the services of Wil Ledezma and Fernando Rodney tonight. So if Maroth gets into trouble early it could be a long series for the Tigers pitchers. Another Mike will be the center of attention tonight as well. Mike Rabelo will make his first start behind the plate giving Pudge Rodriguez a well needed rest. Gary Sheffield will see some time in the field starting in right field, giving Magglio's knees less time on the hard turf.

Line-ups:
Detroit (5-3)
C Granderson CF
P Polanco 2B
G Sheffield RF
M Ordonez DH
C Guillen SS
S Casey 1B
C Monroe LF
M Rabelo C
B Inge 3B

Toronto (5-3)
A Rios RF
M Stairs LF
V Wells CF
F Thomas DH
T Glaus 3B
A Hill 2B
G Zaun C
R Clayton SS
J Phillips 1B

Pitchers:
Detroit - Mike Maroth (1-0, 7.20 ERA)
Toronto - Tomo Ohka (0-0, 10.38 ERA)

Post-Game:

Tigers 5 Blue Jays 4

The Tiger bats had a little more pop today, adding up to five runs on nine hits. The Tigers offense was aided a little by the Jays inability to filed ground balls. The were more than a few bobbles and two errors on the night for the Jays fielders. Inge and Sheffield looked a bit more comfortable at the plate. Mike Rabelo didn't record his first hit, but had a pretty nice put out on Gregg Zaun trying to take second on a ball in the dirt. Mike Maroth pitched his was out of a few jams getting batters to hit into a double play and a few pop outs. Joel Zumaya looked a little to eager to record his first save. He came in the game in the bottom of the 8th with runners on 1st and 2nd base. His first pitch was a wild one, allowing the runners to advance . A n out sandwiched in between a sac fly and a double and the Jays had the tying run in scoring position with the top on the order coming to the plate. four pitches later Joel had the K, and the inning was over. He was much more in control in the 9th getting Vernon well to pop out and striking out Matt Stairs and and Frank Thomas to end the game. A much better ratio of K's to BB tonight, at 5 to 4. Plus all 5 K's were from only two people. 4 of the 9 hits were for extra bases as well. Both positive signs heading into the Opening Day rematch of Bonderman vs. Halladay tomorrow night.

Tiger Hero:
Brandon Inge. 2 for 3 with 3 RBIs. Looked a lot more comfortable at the plate and in the field.

Tiger Zero:
Curtis Granderson. 0 for 4 with 3 K's. You're still my Tiger Curtis, but tonight you stunk.

Tigers Record:
W - L
6 - 3

Game 8

Anyone having difficulty finding tonight's game on TV, The Cutoff Man has an in depth list of all the places to find FSN +, on which tonight's game will be broadcast. As for the game tonight, there is a chance of rain. So getting an early lead, might be important as the game might be called early due to the weather. Hopefully the rain holds off long enough to get a full game in. A few changes in the line-up today. Pudge's foot seems to be fine, as he is slated to leadoff against the lefty Adam Loewen. Brandon Inge returns to third base, and Marcus Thames will make his season debut at first base.

Line-ups:

Detroit (4-3)
Rodriguez C
Polanco 2B
Sheffield DH
Ordonez RF
Guillen SS
Monroe LF
Thames 1B
Inge 3B
Granderson CF

Baltimore (3-5)
Roberts 2B
Mora 3B
Markakis RF
Tejada SS
Huff 1B
Gibbons LF
Millar DH
Patterson CF
Bako C

Pitchers:
Tigers - Justin Verlander (0-0, 0.00 ERA)
Orioles - Adam Loewen (1-0, 3.60 ERA)

Post-Game:

Tigers 4 Baltimore 1

Well had the game ended in nine the rain would have held off, but it took 12 innings to finally win it. The Orioles did their best to try to let the Tigers win it, allowing 11 hits and walking 5; but Tiger hitters were just not able to get the job done. It took until 2 outs in the 12th inning, and the Orioles emptying the bullpen for the Tigers to get the go ahead runs. Craig Monroe did it again with a grand slam to put the Tigers up for good. The pitching got a little shaky at the end, but was flawless throughout. Verlander got into a few jams, but pitched his way out and pitched 7 great innings. Fernando Rodney and Wil Ledezma (who will be credited with the win) both pitched near perfect innings of relief, and allowed the Tiger offense enough time to win the game.

Tiger Hero:
Tigers pitchers (before Bobby Seay). The stat line speaks for itself:
12 IP 4 H 4 BB 11K 0 runs

Tiger Zero:
Tigers batters (except Carlos Guillen and Craig Monroe). 14 strikeouts, 13 left on base, 8 of those in scoring position.

Record:
W - L
5 - 3

Game 7

The last time the Tigers saw Jaret Wright, it was in Game 4 of the ALDS. They chased him after 2.2 innings on their way to a series clinching 8-3 victory. Wright's first start of this year was a brief one as well. He gave up 6 runs on 4 hits and 5 walks in 2.1 innings, in a 7-2 loss to Minnesota. He takes the mound for the Orioles tonight, going up against Nate Robertson. Jamie Walker will get his ring tonight as well. He has made it clear how he feels going up against his old team. For all those hoping for Brandon Inge to find a spot on the pine, your wish is granted. In his place...Neifi Perez. Yeah, I don't even know what to day about that, let's just go to the line-ups.

Line-ups:
Detroit (3-3)
Granderson CF
Polanco 2B
Sheffield DH
Ordonez RF
Guillen SS
Rodriguez C
Casey 3B
Monroe LF
Perez 3B

Baltimore (3-4)
Roberts 2B
Mora 3B
Markakis RF
Tejada SS
Huff DH
Gibbons LF
Millar 1B
Patterson CF
Castillo C

Pitchers:
Tigers - Nate Robertson (1-0, 3.18 ERA)
Orioles - Jaret Wright (0-1, 15.43 ERA)

Post-Game:

Tigers 3 Orioles 1

Nate Robertson, Curtis Granderson, and Placido Polanco were all the Tigers needed tonight to get the win. Nate did to the O's what Cabrera did the the Tigers yesterday. He pitched 7 1/3 innings, gave up only 4 hits, struck out five, walked one, and most importantly didn't allow a run. Curtis collected two more doubles, and had a big outfield assist to take a double away from Miguel Tejada in the 7th. Placido was 2 for 3 and had a great defensive stop to ensure Todd Jones got his 4th save of the season. Jonesy, with a little help from Polanco's glove, had his second 1-2-3 save of the year. It only took him 10 pitchers, 7 being strikes. Whether Brian Roberts heard Polly's footsteps, or the course of his throw was altered by the gravitation pull of his huge melon is up for debate. But the errant throw was the difference in the game, allowing 2 runs to score instead of ending the inning. Scary moment when Pudge took a check swing foul off the foot, and looked like he would have to leave the game. He stayed in, but with Vance Wilson on the DL, you have to hope that the post-game check up finds nothing serious.

Tiger Hero:
Nate Robertson. The best performance by a Tiger pitcher in this young season.

Tiger Zero:
Gary Sheffield. o for 4, 2 K's one with no outs and the bases loaded. Way too many strikeout for Sheffield. He's on pace from 184. Never in his career has he had more than 100. I'm not saying he will come anywhere close to that number, but the strikeouts would be a lot easier to deal with as long as he was hitting with his other at bats.


Tigers Record:
W - L
4 - 3

Game 6

The Tigers roll in to Baltimore after barely edging out a series victory in Kansas City. The weather looks to be a little bit better with temperatures in the mid 40's for today's game. It's Opening Day for the O's as they send Daniel Cabrera to the mound. Cabrera can be masterful, as he was last September, nearly no-hitting the Yankees, or dreadful as evidenced last April when he allowed seven runs, on seven hits and seven walks in 1.1 innings of work. On the mound for the Tigers is Chad Durbin in his first major league start since 8/26-04. Let's hope the 2 years and 7 months since have taught him some things, because in that start he didn't get out of the first after giving up 6 runs. The Orioles are also coming off a series win over the Yankees after being swept by the Twins in the opening series, but will be without the services of catcher Ramon Hernandez, a blow to the O's offense.

Line-ups:
Detroit (3-2)
Granderson CF
Polanco 2B
Sheffield DH
Ordonez RF
Guillen SS
Rodriguez C
Casey 1B
Monroe LF
Inge 3B

Baltimore (2-4)
Roberts 2B
Mora 3B
Markakis RF
Tejada SS
Huff 1B
Gibbons LF
Millar DH
Patterson CF
Bako C

Pitchers:
Tigers - Chad Durbin (0-0, 0.00 ERA)
Orioles - Daniel Cabrera (0-1, 3.86 ERA)

Post-game:

Tigers 2 Baltimore 6

Daniel Cabrera was on today. After a 21 pitch first inning he settled down and was in control. The pitcher that led the AL in walks last year did not have one today. It's not like he was overpowering Tiger hitters, he only had 5 K's (2 were against Inge so I'm hesitant to count those as legit K's), but his curveball put Tigers in a hole so often they were swinging at bad pitches, popping out, and hitting weak grounders. As for Durbin he looked good until the third inning. Still he stuck out 5 and only had one walk. The problem was he was leaving too many pitches out for hits. Wil Ledezma was lights out in relief. In 2.1 inning he allowed only one hit, adn his only walk was an intentional one. If the Tigers had another lefty besides Seay in the bullpen, one might wonder if Ledezma might be given another shot as a starter.

Tiger Hero:
Wil Ledezma and Jose Mesa. After Durbin faltered the bullpen came in and allowed only one hit and retired the last nine Orioles in a row.

Tiger Zero:
Gary Sheffield. While Brandon Inge might be hitless for the year, he is only 3 hits behind Sheffield on the year. An o for 4 performance today with a strikeout. The Tigers need more than that from the 3 spot to win games.

Tigers Record:
W - L
3 - 3

Game 5

The rubber match in the series today, as Jeremy Bonderman looks to get his first win of the season, and the Tigers win their first series on the year which will move them to the right side of .500. The Tigers look to have gotten some of that power back, let see if the patience that was there in the first two comes of the season returns as well.

Line-ups:
Detroit
Granderson CF
Polanco 2B
Sheffield DH
Ordonez RF
Guillen SS
Rodriguez C
Casey 1B
Thames LF
Inge 3B

Kansas City
DeJesus CF
Grudzielanek 2B
Teahen RF
Brown LF
Gordon 3B
Sanders DH
Shealy 1B
LaRue C
Pena SS

Pitchers:
Tigers - Jeremy Bonderman (0-0, 4.50 ERA)
Royals - Brandon Duckworth (0-0, 0.00 ERA)

Post-Game:
The Tigers flat out stole one today. But an ugly win, is a win nonetheless. Bonderman and the bullpen pitched well today. Bonderman allowed 2 runs on 7 hits and had 8 K's in 6 innings. Bobby Seay and Fernando Rodney pitched scoreless 7th and 8th innings, and Todd Jones racked up his third save of the season. As for the hitters, Carlos Guillen looks like he's starting to heat up as he was 2 for 3 with a double. Pudge continued his ownership of KC pitching, going 2 for 4 and hitting the go ahead 3 run homer. Everyone else...as cold as the weather. Thames did draw two walks, but also one of five Tiger strikeouts. As I've stated before, hopefully the bats will heat up with the weather.

Tiger Hero:
Ivan Rodriguez. An easy pick here as he put the Tigers up in the top of the ninth with a 3 run homer.

Tiger Zero:
Brandon Inge. Hate to pick on him when he's down, but still hitless and fouling out with an 0-1 counts isn't going to win people over.

Tigers Record:
W - L
3 - 2

Game 4

In what is hopefully a bounce back game for the Tigers; they put Mike Maroth up against the ace of the KC staff Gil Meche. Hopefully the Tiger bats have thawed after last night's debacle, and as Rod Allen would say "put some crooked numbers up on the board."

Line-ups:
Detroit
Granderson CF
Polanco 2B
Sheffield DH
Ordonez RF
Guillen SS
Rodriguez C
Casey 1B
Monroe LF
Inge 3B

Kansas City
DeJesus CF
Grudzielanek 2B
Sweeney DH
Sanders RF
Brown LF
German 3B
Shealy 1B
Buck C
Pena SS

Pitchers
Tigers: Maroth (0-0)
Royals: Meche (1-0)

Post-Game:
wasn't spectacular, allowing Propelled by solo shots from Pudge, Sheff, and Grandy; the Tigers hold on to win 6-5. Marothfour runs on six hits. He was better than Gil Meche, who gave up 6 on 8 hits. Defense was much better than the previous games. The lone error was a errant throw by Carlos Guillen that, thanks to a lucky bounce, still resulted in an out (via a rundown). Only 3 walks to 7 K's for the Tigers bats, but half of their hits were of the extra base variety. When the weather starts to heat up, I'm assuming the Tigers bats will too. Grilli got into some trouble in the 7th allowing a few hits, and putting the potential tying run 90 feet away with only one out. But he recovered to retire the next two batters and get out of the jam. Todd Jones recorded the save in 1-2-3 fashion, notching up a strikeout for the final out.

Tiger Hero:
Curtis Granderson. He drove in two and his solo shot in the 5th ended up being the winning run.

Tiger Zero:
Brandon Inge. Inge was 0-4 with 3 K's and has yet to record his first hit of the season. All is not lost however, he had a terrible April last year and had a decent year at the plate.

Tigers Record:
W - L
2 - 2

Game 3

Game 3 takes place tonight in chilly Kansas City. Justin Verlander makes his first start of the season against Jorge De La Rosa. Also since De La Rosa is a lefty, we will probably be seeing the debut of Pudge as a leadoff hitter. Although with Grandy's prowess at the plate in the first two games I wouldn't be surprised if Jim Leyland leaves him at the top of the order. This should poses as a easy start to the series as, De La Rosa has been shaky this spring. Ask A.J. Burnett what happens if you don't have control around the Tigers hitters. As for another 8th inning meltdown, I don't think the Royals hitters are in the same level as the Blue Jays, so the Tigers should be safe. Other questinos: Will C-Mo get his first hit? Will the Tigers continue to rack up the bases on balls? Will the Tigers go a game without striking out more than 5 times? Will someone other than Curtis Granderson get an extra base hit? Will Placido Polanco stay on fire?
Answers and game wrap-up later tonight.

Post-game
Royals 3 Tigers 1...yeah um well that pretty much sucks. It seemed like the whole game both teams were anxious just to get the game over with. I don't think Magglio's ninja costume helped him get to the ball any quicker, yet another misplayed ball. Only three walks on a pitcher that has walked over 100 in 144 career innings, is not good. I'm assuming everyone will be calling for Jose Mesa to join Fernando Rodney and Jason Grilli on a bus to Toledo. Everyone pause...take a deep breath...settle down. It's only GAME FRICKING THREE OF THE SEASON...That being said, if the Tigers don't pull out a series win, I expect a full on tirade from Mr. Leyland if one hasn't been unleashed after tonight's performance.

Tiger Hero:
Justin Verlander. The walk total was a little high, but C.B. Buckner's strike zone seemed to change pitch to pitch. He only allowed 2 hits, struck out five, and allowed only two hits. He kept the Tigers in it.

Tiger Zero:
Everyone but Verlander and Wil Ledezma. I think the Tigers forgot that you still have to actually play the game to beat Kansas City. KC tried to lose this one, they stranded 19 men on base. No one could get anything started and the Tigers played way down to the level of the Royals.

Tigers Record: 1-2 (Tied for 4th in the AL Central)

Casting Call

One of the benefits of unemployed and having insomnia, is that you stay up all night and watch crappy movies. Last night's gem, "Angels in the Outfield". It featured Danny Glover as the manager, the kid from "3rd Rock from the Sun" as a kid who sees Angels that help the team, and Christopher Lloyd as the head Angel. Well since it has been like ten years since I've seen this movie, and as I'm watching I forgot that Tony Danza was cast as a washed up pitcher. I also recognized in right field was Matthew McConaughey. Even stranger was future Oscar winner Adrien Brody as a utility infielder. So this got me to thinking, if there was a movie about the 2007 Detroit Tigers, who would play whom?

Jim Leyland: James Gammon (aka Lou Brown from Major League)
Can't you just see Jim Leyland yelling at Dorn to get in front of the damn ball?
Kenny Rogers: Dennis Quaid
Both have prolonged their careers by embracing the mentor role.
Curtis Granderson: Will Smith
Who doesn't like Will Smith? Well I don't, but Grandy sure is making himself into the likable star that Will Smith seems to be
Brandon Inge: Matt Damon
Women love them, yet despite wanting to hate them, they do just good enough of a job to seem alright. The Bourne Identity = 27 HRs from the 9 spot.
Pudge Rodriguez: Marc Anthony
Diminutive Puerto Ricans whose best years are behind them. But cheer up, Marc you're with Jennifer Lopez (for now..) and Pudge you're a Hall of Famer and still have a couple years left.
Craig Monroe: Duane Davis (that guy in every sports movie)
In the background for most of the movie, yet every now and again has a big line.
Marcus Thames: Omar Epps
Good guys you wish they could give a better role to
Todd Jones: Billy Bob Thornton
If anyone could get into the psyche of Jonesy it would have to be Billy Bob, even if he is a Cards fan
Jeremy Bonderman: Woody Harrelson
To me they just look alike.
Mike Maroth: William O'Leary (Jimmy from Bull Durham)
I think candlesticks would make a nice gift for Mike's wedding too.
Joel Zumaya: Benicio Del Toro
A little old for Joel, but the bad-assery content is the same level
Jose Mesa: Ruben Blades
Veteran relief pitcher, veteran character actor.

That's all I got. Any othersf from other teams? Fill up the comments.

Game 2

Pre-Game:
On a day that the Tigers will be receiving their AL Champion rings, the weather will be reminiscent of the day in October on which they won it. The forecast is cold with a chance of rain/snow. If the game ends up being played the wind may play a factor as gusts up to 50 mph could occur. But enough meteorology out of me, the pitching match up is Nate Robertson vs. A.J. Burnett. Here are the line-ups:

Detroit
Granderson CF
Polanco 2B
Sheffield DH
Ordonez RF
Guillen SS
Rodriguez C
Casey 1B
Monroe LF
Inge 3B

Toronto
Johnson LF
Overbay 1B
Wells CF
Thomas DH
Glaus 3B
Rios RF
Hill 2B
Zaun C
Clayton SS

Post-Game Notes:
A blow-out that turned into a nail biter. Nonetheless, the Tigers hold on for the win and even it up to 1-1 for the year. The Tigers again were a bit more patient drawing 9 walks, and everyone reached base at least once. Carlos Guillen pulled off a couple more good plays at shortstop. Sean Casey made his share of nice plays on askew tosses to first base. Magglio Ordonez was to fielding as Todd Jones is to pitching today. Nate Robertson looked solid, drawing a bunch of groundballs, and striking out 4 in 5 2/3 innings. Fernando Rodney was shaky once again, allowing three hits and giving up three runs in that nightmare 8th inning.

Tiger Hero
Curtis Granderson. Knocked in 5 and had his first career grand slam in the 3rd inning. His triple in the 7th ended up driving in what ended up being the deciding run.

Tiger Zero
Magglio Ordonez. while the swirling winds might have had something to do with it, his fielding in today's game was downright atrocious. The dive for the ball that he ended up missing and resulted in a triple and 3 runs in, made the game a lot closer than it needed to be.

Tigers Record (1-1)

Opening Day 2007

Well by now the Tigers first game of the season has been recalled and dissected by many. Here's a few bulleted game observations of mine, and some really bad cellphone camera pictures

• Parking was insane downtown. Whether this was due to all the people tailgating for Opening Day, or this will be commonplace due to the expected jump in attendance, remains to be seen.
• While the first and tenth inning pitching lapses cost the Tigers the game, from innings 2-9 there were only four hits and two walks.
• Sheffield and Vernon Wells launched foul balls into the upper deck pretty deep down the third base line. Wells landed in what looked to be a few rows in front of the top in somewhere in the 340's
• Tigers hitters did a good job s of taking and fouling off pitches. Halladay left in after the sixth inning after throwing over 90 pitches.
• Other than the misplayed bloop hit, and a bobble at first base, the fielding looked solid. especially Carlos Guillen.
• Todd Jones, one inning. That's the way it should be.
• Toronto came out very aggressive, two stolen bases in the first inning.
• Kind of disappointing to see some on the record crowd head to the aisles after Rodney gave up the first run in the top of the 10th.
• All in all, great weather, and a pretty good game. while the Tigers did lose, they looked good and there are 161 games left to go.
  

After Every game, I'm going to single out my pick for the top and bottom performers of the game the Inaugural edition of Tiger Hero/Zero goes like this:

Tiger Hero:
Placido Polanco
While Sheff might have had two sac flys for RBIs. Placido had a RBI of his own and went 3 for 5.

Tiger Zero:
Fernando Rodney
Sorry Fernando, but you had Frank Thomas at 0-2 and plunked him to load the bases, then had Glaus down 0-2 then gave up the hit that put the Jays ahead.


Here's my Scorecard


If you squint at the white flag in the center you'll see the AL Champions banner


Here's how the first pitch looked from my seat