Just like last night's game, on paper, Grienke vs. French seemed like a huge mismatch. Fortunately for the Tigers games are not played on paper.
The Tigers jumped out quick on Greinke, scoring more runs (3) in the first two innings, than they had in previous 18. It was only 3 the Tigers would score all game, but the pitching staff would make it stick.
Jim Leyland let Luke French stick around long enough this time to pick up the win. But the real key is the solid bullpen work tonight. Fu-Ne Ti took over with a runner on base, got a double play to end the inning. Brandon Lyon was the Lyon that was supposed to challenge for the closer position this spring, as he struck out the only 2 batters he faced. In came Fernando Rodney, coming off of 48 pitches over the last two nights. He sat down the side 1-2-3 striking out the last two outs and is 19 for 19 in save opportunities.
So a series win, and a off day awaiting the struggling Cleveland Indians. An off day you should be spending sending one more Tiger to the All-Star Game
Tigers 3 Royals 1
W: French (1-0)
L: Greinke (10-5)
S: Rodney (19)
Tigers Record
W - L
46 - 38
1st Place AL Central (2 games ahead of Chicago)
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