Porcello killed by Yanks.
Rick Porcello showed that he is a 20 year old rookie Wednesday night at Comerica Park. He was clobbered time and time again by the Yankees. His final line is not good: 3.2 IP, 6 H, 6 ER, 3 BB, 1 SO. Compare that with the somewhat-more-seasoned Jaba Chamberlain of NY: 7.0 IP, 3 H, 1 ER, 3 BB, 6 SO. It only took Chamberlain 88 pitches to get through 7 innings, where it took Rick 75 just for 3 2/3 innings. No contest.
The offense once again was non-existent until they made it interesting in the 9th after Curtis smoked a 3 run HR off Mariano Rivera. Had Placido been able to scratch out a base hit, it would have brought up Magglio representing the potential tying run, but he couldn't do it.
Day off today, then they play the first of 13 straight divisional games (versus Indians, versus Twins, @ Chicago, @ Cleveland, @ Minnesota). These 13 games will tell us a lot as to how our team stacks up against the AL Central competition.
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Game 20 : Record 11-9
Pathetic defense and horrible relief pitching.
The only thing worse than the defense was the bullpen's performance in the 7th inning. Edwin Jackson pitched very well again for the Tigers, but was really let down by the guys out of the pen. It started with Ryan Perry, then Nate Robertson and Brandon Lyon. Nobody was good and it all started with a horrible play on defense. Once again the defense let the team down...many times in this game:
4th inning - ugly misplay by Everett not called an error after an 11 pitch at-bat by Robinson Cano. Jackson saved him and no damage done.
5th inning - misplay by Miguel on a foul ball. Jackson saved him by fanning Jeter on the next pitch.
6th inning - horrible miscommunication and misplay by Curtis and Magglio. Again bailed out by Jackson.
7th inning - horrible error by Josh Anderson that gift-wrapped the Yankees first 2 runs and started that pathetic 10-run inning. Ugly, ugly, ugly.
Grades:
Pitching: D. Jackson is the only reason this isn't an F.
Defense: F. Pathetic, putrid, disgusting, horrible, bush league. Even though the official scorer only has them down for 2 unearned runs, it could be as high as 8 unearned runs given up.
Offense: F. First time they have been shutout this year. Ugly.
The only thing worse than the defense was the bullpen's performance in the 7th inning. Edwin Jackson pitched very well again for the Tigers, but was really let down by the guys out of the pen. It started with Ryan Perry, then Nate Robertson and Brandon Lyon. Nobody was good and it all started with a horrible play on defense. Once again the defense let the team down...many times in this game:
4th inning - ugly misplay by Everett not called an error after an 11 pitch at-bat by Robinson Cano. Jackson saved him and no damage done.
5th inning - misplay by Miguel on a foul ball. Jackson saved him by fanning Jeter on the next pitch.
6th inning - horrible miscommunication and misplay by Curtis and Magglio. Again bailed out by Jackson.
7th inning - horrible error by Josh Anderson that gift-wrapped the Yankees first 2 runs and started that pathetic 10-run inning. Ugly, ugly, ugly.
Grades:
Pitching: D. Jackson is the only reason this isn't an F.
Defense: F. Pathetic, putrid, disgusting, horrible, bush league. Even though the official scorer only has them down for 2 unearned runs, it could be as high as 8 unearned runs given up.
Offense: F. First time they have been shutout this year. Ugly.
Monday, April 27, 2009
Game 19 : Record 11-8
Verlander awesome in first win of 2009.
Justin was dominant against the Yankees, striking out 9 in 7 innings of work. He was throwing heat throughout the game, touching 99 mph on the radar gun. CC Sabathia on the other side was very good, but the Tigers were able to scratch out a few runs and that is all that was needed.
Magglio hit HR #2, Placido had 2 big doubles and Miguel drove in a run. Curtis laid down a perfect drag bunt for a hit. I was just marveling at Josh Anderson the other day for doing this and now Curtis pulled the same feat. I love that play, simply love it.
Nice win against the hated Yankees to stay in first place.
Grades:
Pitching: A-. Justin looked like a #1 pitcher for the first time, Bobby Seay was really good. Fernando really struggled - did not do well giving up 2 runs. Rodney got his bacon saved by a fantastic 5-4-3 double play.
Defense: A. Really great double play in the ninth. No errors. No misplays.
Offense: A-. Only four runs on six hits, but they were timely hits and one huge HR.
Justin was dominant against the Yankees, striking out 9 in 7 innings of work. He was throwing heat throughout the game, touching 99 mph on the radar gun. CC Sabathia on the other side was very good, but the Tigers were able to scratch out a few runs and that is all that was needed.
Magglio hit HR #2, Placido had 2 big doubles and Miguel drove in a run. Curtis laid down a perfect drag bunt for a hit. I was just marveling at Josh Anderson the other day for doing this and now Curtis pulled the same feat. I love that play, simply love it.
Nice win against the hated Yankees to stay in first place.
Grades:
Pitching: A-. Justin looked like a #1 pitcher for the first time, Bobby Seay was really good. Fernando really struggled - did not do well giving up 2 runs. Rodney got his bacon saved by a fantastic 5-4-3 double play.
Defense: A. Really great double play in the ninth. No errors. No misplays.
Offense: A-. Only four runs on six hits, but they were timely hits and one huge HR.
Sunday, April 26, 2009
Game 18 : Record 10-8
Galarraga masterful again.
Armando was fantastic Sunday against the Royals. He only made it through 6 innings, but gave up 3 hits and 1 run. His problem was 5 walks. The Royals hitters were patient, took a lot of pitches and got walks, elevated his pitch count and got him out of the game earlier than would have otherwise happened. This is the 2nd straight start that the opposition has taken this tactic and it is time to adjust by pounding the strike zone to get an early 0-1 and 0-2 lead on hitters.
In not-at-all surprising news, Brandon went deep and Everett screwed up another play he should have made. Adam's misplay was not an error but a supposedly-great defensive shortstop makes that play. He has yet to make a "web-gem" material play this year and he has messed up a lot of routine plays. He has yet to impress me.
Dane Sardinha was just called up to replace Matt Treanor on the roster and got the start today. He had an RBI on a sacrifice and gunned down Coco Crisp trying to steal. That throw was outstanding. The pitch was low, so he got no help from that and simply threw a strike to Everett. It wasn't close.
Grades:
Pitching: A. Our ace looked like an ace again after a shaky start his last time out. Bullpen was good, even though Rodney gave up one HR to make it a 1 run game.
Defense: B. No major screw-ups.
Offense: B-. Only threee runs on six hits, but enough to win.
Armando was fantastic Sunday against the Royals. He only made it through 6 innings, but gave up 3 hits and 1 run. His problem was 5 walks. The Royals hitters were patient, took a lot of pitches and got walks, elevated his pitch count and got him out of the game earlier than would have otherwise happened. This is the 2nd straight start that the opposition has taken this tactic and it is time to adjust by pounding the strike zone to get an early 0-1 and 0-2 lead on hitters.
In not-at-all surprising news, Brandon went deep and Everett screwed up another play he should have made. Adam's misplay was not an error but a supposedly-great defensive shortstop makes that play. He has yet to make a "web-gem" material play this year and he has messed up a lot of routine plays. He has yet to impress me.
Dane Sardinha was just called up to replace Matt Treanor on the roster and got the start today. He had an RBI on a sacrifice and gunned down Coco Crisp trying to steal. That throw was outstanding. The pitch was low, so he got no help from that and simply threw a strike to Everett. It wasn't close.
Grades:
Pitching: A. Our ace looked like an ace again after a shaky start his last time out. Bullpen was good, even though Rodney gave up one HR to make it a 1 run game.
Defense: B. No major screw-ups.
Offense: B-. Only threee runs on six hits, but enough to win.
Game 17 : Record 9-8
Tigers offense rocks Royals.
Gerarld, Curtis, Magglio all go deep as the Tigers smoked the Royals 9-1. Zach Miner was OK, not great, but got through 5 innings for the win.
The bullpen was nearly flawless, including the return of Joel Zumaya. He came in throwing heat, gave up 2 hits in the 9th but did not allow anybody to score. It was nice to see Joel out there on the mound in a big league game doing what he does again. Very good sign indeed. Think of having him, Ryan Perry and Fernando Rodney all at the backend of the bullpen. It could be fantastic. It could mean squeezing Brandon Lyon's role down to next to nothing, which would be a good thing.
This was a big win for the Tigers as they now have a chance to win the series when Armando pitches on Sunday afternoon. I like their chances.
Grades:
Pitching: A-. Miner was good. Bullen (Seay, Lyon, Robertson, Zumaya did not allow a run).
Defense: C. Still not perfect.
Offense: A. Big hits all around.
Gerarld, Curtis, Magglio all go deep as the Tigers smoked the Royals 9-1. Zach Miner was OK, not great, but got through 5 innings for the win.
The bullpen was nearly flawless, including the return of Joel Zumaya. He came in throwing heat, gave up 2 hits in the 9th but did not allow anybody to score. It was nice to see Joel out there on the mound in a big league game doing what he does again. Very good sign indeed. Think of having him, Ryan Perry and Fernando Rodney all at the backend of the bullpen. It could be fantastic. It could mean squeezing Brandon Lyon's role down to next to nothing, which would be a good thing.
This was a big win for the Tigers as they now have a chance to win the series when Armando pitches on Sunday afternoon. I like their chances.
Grades:
Pitching: A-. Miner was good. Bullen (Seay, Lyon, Robertson, Zumaya did not allow a run).
Defense: C. Still not perfect.
Offense: A. Big hits all around.
Game 16 : Record 8-8
Greinke too much for Tigs.
Zack Greinke was awesome for the Royals Friday night, pitching a complete game 3-hitter. He allowed only 1 unearned run. He was simply dominate.
This was the first game of the year that the Tigers did not get at least 8 base hits. They just couldn't muster much of anything against Greinke. The one run they scored was entirely because of Gerarld Laird's heads-up baserunning and good speed (especially for a catcher). Rick Porcello pitched good, but far inferior to Greinke.
Rick's final line: 6.0 IP, 4 H, 5 R, 4 ER, 2 BB, 4 SO. Greinke's line: 9.0 IP, 3 H, 1 R, 0 ER, 1 BB, 10 SO. Complete game on only 108 pitches. Very impressive. Sometimes you have to just take your hats off to the other guy. They just cannot let no-name guys do this to them like what happened in 2008.
Grades:
Pitching: B-. Porcello was good, Nate was OK, Perry also good. 5 earned runs is too many, though.
Defense: F. Every game with at least one error gets an F. I am so sick of the defense being horrible and putting more pressure on the pitchers. It is a domino effect.
Offense: F. One unearned, manufactured run. They were dominated.
Zack Greinke was awesome for the Royals Friday night, pitching a complete game 3-hitter. He allowed only 1 unearned run. He was simply dominate.
This was the first game of the year that the Tigers did not get at least 8 base hits. They just couldn't muster much of anything against Greinke. The one run they scored was entirely because of Gerarld Laird's heads-up baserunning and good speed (especially for a catcher). Rick Porcello pitched good, but far inferior to Greinke.
Rick's final line: 6.0 IP, 4 H, 5 R, 4 ER, 2 BB, 4 SO. Greinke's line: 9.0 IP, 3 H, 1 R, 0 ER, 1 BB, 10 SO. Complete game on only 108 pitches. Very impressive. Sometimes you have to just take your hats off to the other guy. They just cannot let no-name guys do this to them like what happened in 2008.
Grades:
Pitching: B-. Porcello was good, Nate was OK, Perry also good. 5 earned runs is too many, though.
Defense: F. Every game with at least one error gets an F. I am so sick of the defense being horrible and putting more pressure on the pitchers. It is a domino effect.
Offense: F. One unearned, manufactured run. They were dominated.
Friday, April 24, 2009
Game 15 : Record 8-7
Putrid defense carries the day.
Absolutely horrible defense by the infield in this game, especially the left side where they were supposed to be so much better this year. Brandon was horrible and Adam Everett contributed his customary 1 error per 2 games played. Really, really bad and tough to watch at times.
The pitching was OK by Edwin Jackson. Not great by any stretch, but he pitched well enough to win had the defense and bullpen been better. Eddie Bonine came in relief and was not good at all. You know it is a bad night when Brandon Lyon comes in and is the only pitcher who didn't surrender a run.
Jackson: 5.0 IP, 8 H, 6 R, 3 ER, 2 BB, 4 SO. Those unearned runs were HUGE.
Bonine: 1.2 IP, 5 H, 4 R, 4 ER, 1 BB, 0 SO. Really bad.
The offense was not good either, leaving 13 men on base. Magglio, Miguel and Carlos (our vaunted 3-4-5 hitters) left 8 men on base! Just not good enough - especially on a night when the pitching and the defense were smelly.
Grades for last night:
Pitching: D. Jackson was OK, but Bonine made up for it by being horrible.
Defense: F. 4 errors, 3 unearned runs, lots more pitches thrown because of the errors. This was the reason they lost.
Offense: D+. A few good at bats and some runs scored, but too many runs left on the field.
Absolutely horrible defense by the infield in this game, especially the left side where they were supposed to be so much better this year. Brandon was horrible and Adam Everett contributed his customary 1 error per 2 games played. Really, really bad and tough to watch at times.
The pitching was OK by Edwin Jackson. Not great by any stretch, but he pitched well enough to win had the defense and bullpen been better. Eddie Bonine came in relief and was not good at all. You know it is a bad night when Brandon Lyon comes in and is the only pitcher who didn't surrender a run.
Jackson: 5.0 IP, 8 H, 6 R, 3 ER, 2 BB, 4 SO. Those unearned runs were HUGE.
Bonine: 1.2 IP, 5 H, 4 R, 4 ER, 1 BB, 0 SO. Really bad.
The offense was not good either, leaving 13 men on base. Magglio, Miguel and Carlos (our vaunted 3-4-5 hitters) left 8 men on base! Just not good enough - especially on a night when the pitching and the defense were smelly.
Grades for last night:
Pitching: D. Jackson was OK, but Bonine made up for it by being horrible.
Defense: F. 4 errors, 3 unearned runs, lots more pitches thrown because of the errors. This was the reason they lost.
Offense: D+. A few good at bats and some runs scored, but too many runs left on the field.
Thursday, April 23, 2009
Game 14 : Record 8-6
Verlander still struggling, but the offense bails him out.
Large, huge, massive win on the left coast last night. It did not look good for most of the night as Justin gave up 7 runs in only 5 innings pitched. His final line: 5.0IP, 9 H, 7 ER, 2 BB, 5 SO. He had to throw 104 pitches just to get through the 5th, which is very similar to what Armando did the previous night. The difference is that Armando only gave up 3 runs versus 7 by Justin. All of the runs he allowed were scored as earned runs, but that is somewhat ridiculous. There were two horrible misplays by Ryan Raburn in RF. Ryan was just called up after the Tigers put Marcus Thames on the DL. He looked horrible, absolutely horrible in the field last night and it cost the Tigers a few runs. I know he is a better fielder than what he showed, because we saw him play pretty good defense last year, but he had a forgettable night.
On the plus side, Curtis & Brandon both went deep and Magglio had 3 hits. Even little Adam Everett had 3 hits in his return to the lineup.
Grades for last night:
Pitching: D+. Not a single pitcher had a clean line last night. Even Fernando struggled at the back end of the bullpen.
Defense: C. Those misplays by Raburn could have cost the team a win.
Offense: A+. Sometimes you can get away with outscoring your opponent. They won't win many games 12-10, but we'll take it when they do.
Large, huge, massive win on the left coast last night. It did not look good for most of the night as Justin gave up 7 runs in only 5 innings pitched. His final line: 5.0IP, 9 H, 7 ER, 2 BB, 5 SO. He had to throw 104 pitches just to get through the 5th, which is very similar to what Armando did the previous night. The difference is that Armando only gave up 3 runs versus 7 by Justin. All of the runs he allowed were scored as earned runs, but that is somewhat ridiculous. There were two horrible misplays by Ryan Raburn in RF. Ryan was just called up after the Tigers put Marcus Thames on the DL. He looked horrible, absolutely horrible in the field last night and it cost the Tigers a few runs. I know he is a better fielder than what he showed, because we saw him play pretty good defense last year, but he had a forgettable night.
On the plus side, Curtis & Brandon both went deep and Magglio had 3 hits. Even little Adam Everett had 3 hits in his return to the lineup.
Grades for last night:
Pitching: D+. Not a single pitcher had a clean line last night. Even Fernando struggled at the back end of the bullpen.
Defense: C. Those misplays by Raburn could have cost the team a win.
Offense: A+. Sometimes you can get away with outscoring your opponent. They won't win many games 12-10, but we'll take it when they do.
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Game 13 : Record 7-6
Lyonized again!
Perhaps bringing a guy named Lyon to Detroit wasn't the best idea on the heels of the Lions 0-16 season.
Armando did not pitch great or even good last night, but he battled and battled and left after 5 innings with the game tied. Gave the team a chance to win. This is what good pitchers manage to do...battle their way through on nights where they do not have their best stuff, and this definitely qualified.
His line for last night: 5.0 IP, 7 H, 3 ER, 3 BB, 4 SO. The biggest stat is that he threw 110 pitches in only 5 innings of work. This is why he had to leave so early and, ultimately , why they lost the game. He threw huge volumes of pitches in the first 3 innings. Exhibit one on why it is always a good thing for players to take pitches and make guys throw strikes. Even if you make an out, the pitcher's pitch count is elevated and you will usually get to the other teams bullpen sooner.
On a positive note, Curtis hit two HR last night.
Justin pitches tonight. Time for win #1 for him in 2009!!!!
Perhaps bringing a guy named Lyon to Detroit wasn't the best idea on the heels of the Lions 0-16 season.
Armando did not pitch great or even good last night, but he battled and battled and left after 5 innings with the game tied. Gave the team a chance to win. This is what good pitchers manage to do...battle their way through on nights where they do not have their best stuff, and this definitely qualified.
His line for last night: 5.0 IP, 7 H, 3 ER, 3 BB, 4 SO. The biggest stat is that he threw 110 pitches in only 5 innings of work. This is why he had to leave so early and, ultimately , why they lost the game. He threw huge volumes of pitches in the first 3 innings. Exhibit one on why it is always a good thing for players to take pitches and make guys throw strikes. Even if you make an out, the pitcher's pitch count is elevated and you will usually get to the other teams bullpen sooner.
On a positive note, Curtis hit two HR last night.
Justin pitches tonight. Time for win #1 for him in 2009!!!!
Monday, April 20, 2009
Game 12 : Record 7-5
Porcello gets first win and the Tigers win the series in Seattle.
20 year old Rick Porcello got his first major league win in Seattle on Sunday afternoon. He pitched 7 strong innings and got the win. His line: 7.0 IP, 5 H, 1 ER, 0 BB, 3 SO. He needed only 86 pitches to get through 7. I'm sure if any of the other starters had that line, they would have been sent back out there in the 8th, but young Mr Porcello is being handled with care to not ruin his arm or ruin him for the rest of 2009.
Ramon Santiago went 2-3 with 5 RBI. This included a bases clearing double in the 8th to put the game effectively away for the good guys. He has been on fire since starting to play every day with the injury/sickness of Adam Everett. As said on this blog earlier, if Everett cannot hit very well (Leyland has said this outright) and he is making errors every other game he plays, then let Ramon start and have Everett be the backup. Ramon's defense is second to nobody and his hitting is better than you'd think. He is proving this to be true day after day.
Also....Miguel went 2-3 and scored 3 runs. He is now hitting .489. He cannot be stopped.
They are off Monday and then get to play 3 against the mighty Angels. First game has our 2009 ace (so far) Armando Galaragga against Jered Weaver. Can't wait. Bring em on.
20 year old Rick Porcello got his first major league win in Seattle on Sunday afternoon. He pitched 7 strong innings and got the win. His line: 7.0 IP, 5 H, 1 ER, 0 BB, 3 SO. He needed only 86 pitches to get through 7. I'm sure if any of the other starters had that line, they would have been sent back out there in the 8th, but young Mr Porcello is being handled with care to not ruin his arm or ruin him for the rest of 2009.
Ramon Santiago went 2-3 with 5 RBI. This included a bases clearing double in the 8th to put the game effectively away for the good guys. He has been on fire since starting to play every day with the injury/sickness of Adam Everett. As said on this blog earlier, if Everett cannot hit very well (Leyland has said this outright) and he is making errors every other game he plays, then let Ramon start and have Everett be the backup. Ramon's defense is second to nobody and his hitting is better than you'd think. He is proving this to be true day after day.
Also....Miguel went 2-3 and scored 3 runs. He is now hitting .489. He cannot be stopped.
They are off Monday and then get to play 3 against the mighty Angels. First game has our 2009 ace (so far) Armando Galaragga against Jered Weaver. Can't wait. Bring em on.
Sunday, April 19, 2009
Zoom and C-Mo
Joel Zumaya pitched for the Mud Hens on Saturday and by the accounts that I've read, did well. His line: 2.0 IP, 2 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 1 SO.
Only one strikeout concerns me because that makes me wonder how hard he was throwing. But, he only gave up 2 hits and didn't let anybody score, so that is pretty positive. Also..no walks!!! Gotta love that. Lets hope he has another 1 or 2 successful outings down on the farm and then joins the Tigers soon.
Interesting note from the Pirates - Braves game yesterday. One of our 2006 hero's, Craig Monroe, had a huge day and I am very happy for him. He got the start in RF, hit two HR and drove in 6. Nice job, Craig. Keep it going young man!
I'll always remember Rod Allen after a number of Craig's late inning heroics in 2006 saying "Craig did it again"...."he did it again"!!! Good times.
Only one strikeout concerns me because that makes me wonder how hard he was throwing. But, he only gave up 2 hits and didn't let anybody score, so that is pretty positive. Also..no walks!!! Gotta love that. Lets hope he has another 1 or 2 successful outings down on the farm and then joins the Tigers soon.
Interesting note from the Pirates - Braves game yesterday. One of our 2006 hero's, Craig Monroe, had a huge day and I am very happy for him. He got the start in RF, hit two HR and drove in 6. Nice job, Craig. Keep it going young man!
I'll always remember Rod Allen after a number of Craig's late inning heroics in 2006 saying "Craig did it again"...."he did it again"!!! Good times.
Game 11 : Record 6-5
Jackson into action means a win for the Tigers.
Edwin Jackson was outstanding yet again for the Tigers. His great line: 7.2 IP, 5 H, 0 ER, 1 BB, 6 SO. Really, really good.
Bullpen (Seay and Rodney) did not give up a hit in 1.1 innings to close the deal.
Erik Bedard was also very impressive for the Mariners, but the Tigers were able to squeeze out a run along with an unearned run in the 6th inning to get a shutout win.
No errors at all in this game by the Tigers. You need a very clean to get a shutout and they got it!
Other notes:
Magglio reached .300 average after going 2-3.
Miguel dropped to .488 average. The guy is remarkable!
No errors from the SS position since Ramon started playing everyday. He is the wizard of glove.
Edwin Jackson was outstanding yet again for the Tigers. His great line: 7.2 IP, 5 H, 0 ER, 1 BB, 6 SO. Really, really good.
Bullpen (Seay and Rodney) did not give up a hit in 1.1 innings to close the deal.
Erik Bedard was also very impressive for the Mariners, but the Tigers were able to squeeze out a run along with an unearned run in the 6th inning to get a shutout win.
No errors at all in this game by the Tigers. You need a very clean to get a shutout and they got it!
Other notes:
Magglio reached .300 average after going 2-3.
Miguel dropped to .488 average. The guy is remarkable!
No errors from the SS position since Ramon started playing everyday. He is the wizard of glove.
Game 10 : Record 5-5
Justin...what happened in the 5th????
That game Friday night was unbelievable. Just Verlander was untouchable through 4 innings - perfect 12 for 12 with 7 strikeouts. He looked the best he has looked since his no-hitter in 2007 against the Brewers. But in the fifth, everything changed with a long double, single, single, sacrifice.
The biggest play in that inning was the throwing error on Brandon. It was still 3-1 at the time with runners on 2nd and 3rd. Hard grounder right at Brandon and the runner on 3rd heads home. Brandon smartly throws to Laird who got the ball in plenty of time, but it was not a good throw...short hop for the catcher who couldn't come up with it. So, instead of a 3-1 lead with 2 outs and 2 men on, it was a 3-2 lead with 1 out and 2 men on. That play was huge. The defense once again plays a crucial role in a loss.
Justin's final line: 7.1 IP, 8 H, 6 R, 5 ER, 1 BB, 8 SO. This was a promising outing for him even though he took another loss. He will win some games this year.
That game Friday night was unbelievable. Just Verlander was untouchable through 4 innings - perfect 12 for 12 with 7 strikeouts. He looked the best he has looked since his no-hitter in 2007 against the Brewers. But in the fifth, everything changed with a long double, single, single, sacrifice.
The biggest play in that inning was the throwing error on Brandon. It was still 3-1 at the time with runners on 2nd and 3rd. Hard grounder right at Brandon and the runner on 3rd heads home. Brandon smartly throws to Laird who got the ball in plenty of time, but it was not a good throw...short hop for the catcher who couldn't come up with it. So, instead of a 3-1 lead with 2 outs and 2 men on, it was a 3-2 lead with 1 out and 2 men on. That play was huge. The defense once again plays a crucial role in a loss.
Justin's final line: 7.1 IP, 8 H, 6 R, 5 ER, 1 BB, 8 SO. This was a promising outing for him even though he took another loss. He will win some games this year.
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Game 9 : Record 5-4
I love it when Chicago loses, especially to Detroit!
Armando Galarraga was outstanding again today. Virtually unhittable in his two outings. His line for today: 6.1 IP, 4 H, 0 ER, 2 BB, 5 SO.
His numbers for 2009 so far: 13.1 IP, 9 H, 1 ER, 3 BB, 13 SO. 2-0 record.
These numbers cannot be quibbled with - they are too good.
Placido had a nice game today also with 3 RBI and Miguel went deep with a no-doubt-about-it HR in the 6th. Ramon "Mantle" Santiago had another base knock, plus 2 walks and 2 RBI. As I said previously, Ramon is a better hitter than we all tend to think and his defense is second to none. He should play everyday and Everett should be the backup.
Josh Anderson showed why the Tigers got him and are so high on him. He had 2 hits today and scored two runs. His bunt for a hit is something we have only seen from this set of Tigers a few times in the past 4 years. They just haven't had guys that can do that. It is such an exciting play and I love to see it executed properly. The last Tiger that was really good at that was Alex "roid" Sanchez. That kid could bunt really well...he had many other problems as a player, but the guy could put it down and run it out.
So, they split the shortened two game series with Chicago. They are 5-4 with a day off tomorrow and then play 3 in Seattle. Good luck out west, guys!!!
Armando Galarraga was outstanding again today. Virtually unhittable in his two outings. His line for today: 6.1 IP, 4 H, 0 ER, 2 BB, 5 SO.
His numbers for 2009 so far: 13.1 IP, 9 H, 1 ER, 3 BB, 13 SO. 2-0 record.
These numbers cannot be quibbled with - they are too good.
Placido had a nice game today also with 3 RBI and Miguel went deep with a no-doubt-about-it HR in the 6th. Ramon "Mantle" Santiago had another base knock, plus 2 walks and 2 RBI. As I said previously, Ramon is a better hitter than we all tend to think and his defense is second to none. He should play everyday and Everett should be the backup.
Josh Anderson showed why the Tigers got him and are so high on him. He had 2 hits today and scored two runs. His bunt for a hit is something we have only seen from this set of Tigers a few times in the past 4 years. They just haven't had guys that can do that. It is such an exciting play and I love to see it executed properly. The last Tiger that was really good at that was Alex "roid" Sanchez. That kid could bunt really well...he had many other problems as a player, but the guy could put it down and run it out.
So, they split the shortened two game series with Chicago. They are 5-4 with a day off tomorrow and then play 3 in Seattle. Good luck out west, guys!!!
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
RIP Mark Fidrych
I felt it necessary to take a brief diversion from my normal, daily posts about the games in the 2009 Detroit Tigers season to comment on The Bird. Mark Fidrych died yesterday, April 13 at the age of 54. I read about this after returning home from a cold but fun day at Comerica Park. It was truly sad to read about the accident that took him from us. It is reminiscent of the injuries that took him from our sports lives in the years after his tremendous 1976 season.
His numbers from 1976:
19 W, 9 L, 2.34 ERA, 24 Complete games, 250.1 IP, 53 BB, 97 SO, 1.079 WHIP. He won AL Rookie of the Year and started in the All-Star game.
I remember listening to him pitch on the radio and watch him on TV back in that great year. MLB network had just recently shown a Monday Night Baseball game against the Yankees in 1976 that was his national coming out party. Hope they show it again soon.
The Bird was not just a goofy kid, he was a great pitcher whose career was shortened by injuries to his knees and shoulders. Now, his life is shortened by a horrible accident.
His numbers from 1976:
19 W, 9 L, 2.34 ERA, 24 Complete games, 250.1 IP, 53 BB, 97 SO, 1.079 WHIP. He won AL Rookie of the Year and started in the All-Star game.
I remember listening to him pitch on the radio and watch him on TV back in that great year. MLB network had just recently shown a Monday Night Baseball game against the Yankees in 1976 that was his national coming out party. Hope they show it again soon.
The Bird was not just a goofy kid, he was a great pitcher whose career was shortened by injuries to his knees and shoulders. Now, his life is shortened by a horrible accident.
Game 8 : Record 4-4
Miner has minor league stuff again.
I went to the game yesterday and enjoyed the park, the team and the atmosphere in 38 degree weather. Very cold, windy and ugly. The sun never came out and I'm sure the players were not enjoying themselves at all.
Zach Miner reverted to his previous self and was hammered time and time again. Final line: 3.1 IP, 9 H, 8 ER, 3 BB. Ug-ly!!!
Then Eddie Bonine came in and pitched OK. Gave up a couple of tack-on runs for the White Sox in 2 2/3 innings. The Tigers offense was fine. They kept showing signs that the game was not out of reach, but then the pitching would give up another run or two.
Hero of the day: Ramon Santiago. 3 hits, including a 3 run HR. We were sitting in the 2nd row in shallow left field when young Mr Santiago was signing some autographs prior to the game. I told him "lets get a couple hits today Ramon". He needs me there everyday.
I went to the game yesterday and enjoyed the park, the team and the atmosphere in 38 degree weather. Very cold, windy and ugly. The sun never came out and I'm sure the players were not enjoying themselves at all.
Zach Miner reverted to his previous self and was hammered time and time again. Final line: 3.1 IP, 9 H, 8 ER, 3 BB. Ug-ly!!!
Then Eddie Bonine came in and pitched OK. Gave up a couple of tack-on runs for the White Sox in 2 2/3 innings. The Tigers offense was fine. They kept showing signs that the game was not out of reach, but then the pitching would give up another run or two.
Hero of the day: Ramon Santiago. 3 hits, including a 3 run HR. We were sitting in the 2nd row in shallow left field when young Mr Santiago was signing some autographs prior to the game. I told him "lets get a couple hits today Ramon". He needs me there everyday.
Sunday, April 12, 2009
Game 7 : Record 4-3
How sweep it is. First place looks nice even early in the season!
Fantastic win today. They really stole one from Texas as this is probably one they should have lost. But, good teams find ways to win games they are outplayed for the majority of the game. Getting shutout on 4 hits through 7 innings and losing 4-0 entering the bottom of the 8th was not a good situation to be in. But when Texas removed Kevin Millwood after 112 pitches, they had life. Brandon Inge opened the 8th with a solo HR (his 4th) and they were definitely alive. 2 outs and few hits later the game was tied and Brandon got a second at bat of the inning. He delivered for the 2nd time with a game winning single up the middle.
Brandon is hitting .304, has 4 HR and 7 RBI with a slugging percentage of .870 so far. Unbelievable numbers so far for him.
Edwin Jackson pitched OK today. Not nearly as well as his first outing, but still gave the team a chance to win, which they cashed in. The real pitching stories of the day were Kevin Millwood and the Tigers bullpen, including Fernando Rodney.
Rodney had another 1-2-3 ninth inning for a his second save in 2 days. Both games were saved with 1 run leads. Fernando looks outstanding so far. Our friend Brandon Lyon also pitched 2 perfect innings in relief, which was a very nice thing to see after his first horrible performance for the Tigers.
Long ways to go, but they swept the Rangers, are above .500, in first place and have had decent-to-outstanding starting pitching in every game except the first game of the year. A lot to be excited about. Oh, and Miguel had another 2 hits and is hitting .520.
Fantastic win today. They really stole one from Texas as this is probably one they should have lost. But, good teams find ways to win games they are outplayed for the majority of the game. Getting shutout on 4 hits through 7 innings and losing 4-0 entering the bottom of the 8th was not a good situation to be in. But when Texas removed Kevin Millwood after 112 pitches, they had life. Brandon Inge opened the 8th with a solo HR (his 4th) and they were definitely alive. 2 outs and few hits later the game was tied and Brandon got a second at bat of the inning. He delivered for the 2nd time with a game winning single up the middle.
Brandon is hitting .304, has 4 HR and 7 RBI with a slugging percentage of .870 so far. Unbelievable numbers so far for him.
Edwin Jackson pitched OK today. Not nearly as well as his first outing, but still gave the team a chance to win, which they cashed in. The real pitching stories of the day were Kevin Millwood and the Tigers bullpen, including Fernando Rodney.
Rodney had another 1-2-3 ninth inning for a his second save in 2 days. Both games were saved with 1 run leads. Fernando looks outstanding so far. Our friend Brandon Lyon also pitched 2 perfect innings in relief, which was a very nice thing to see after his first horrible performance for the Tigers.
Long ways to go, but they swept the Rangers, are above .500, in first place and have had decent-to-outstanding starting pitching in every game except the first game of the year. A lot to be excited about. Oh, and Miguel had another 2 hits and is hitting .520.
Saturday, April 11, 2009
Game 6 : Record 3-3
Good outing by Justin today. Not great because he could only make it through 5 innings and because of the unearned runs caused by Horrible defense!!!! Errors by Inge and Everett in the 5th inning led to 2 unearned runs. Both were plays that clearly should have been made. Adam's error was pathetic...routine grounder that he fields cleanly but cannot get out of his glove and is late throwing to 2nd. That would have ended the inning. Hamilton followed the Everett error with a flare to left that drove in 2 and gave the Rangers a 3-2 lead.
Justin's line: 5 IP, 2 H, 1 ER, 4 BB, 8 SO.
Placido had a nice game with 2 doubles, but it continues to concern me that he is getting too many hits to left field. This trend seemed to start in 2008 and has continued in 2009. He pulls the ball too much.
Nate has pitched outstanding out of the pen for the most of this season. Today was no exception as he faced 6 batters and got them all out. Really good.
Fernando Rodney was awesome to get his first save. 3 batters faced and 3 K's. Wow. The mix of a 96 MPH fastball and 81 MPH changeup is fantastic. He just needs to keep mixing them up properly.
Laird called another great game. The Rangers only had 2 hits!
Justin's line: 5 IP, 2 H, 1 ER, 4 BB, 8 SO.
Placido had a nice game with 2 doubles, but it continues to concern me that he is getting too many hits to left field. This trend seemed to start in 2008 and has continued in 2009. He pulls the ball too much.
Nate has pitched outstanding out of the pen for the most of this season. Today was no exception as he faced 6 batters and got them all out. Really good.
Fernando Rodney was awesome to get his first save. 3 batters faced and 3 K's. Wow. The mix of a 96 MPH fastball and 81 MPH changeup is fantastic. He just needs to keep mixing them up properly.
Laird called another great game. The Rangers only had 2 hits!
Friday, April 10, 2009
Game 5 : Record 2-3
Opening Day Massacre
What a great game for the Tigers today. Galarraga was awesome and Miguel continued his impressive start.
Galarraga: 7.0 IP, 5 H, 1 ER, 1 BB, 8 SO
Career high in strike outs for Armando. He was in total control the whole game and was fun to watch him kill the Rangers, who have a good offensive team.
Miguel drove in 6, including a huge grand slam that turned a lead into a rout. He is hitting .611!!!
Lost stat in the offensive explosion....ZERO errors today! Good defense all the way around. Brandon made a tremendous play early in the game and even Carlos made a nice play in LF.
Nice win. Now, lets win the series.
What a great game for the Tigers today. Galarraga was awesome and Miguel continued his impressive start.
Galarraga: 7.0 IP, 5 H, 1 ER, 1 BB, 8 SO
Career high in strike outs for Armando. He was in total control the whole game and was fun to watch him kill the Rangers, who have a good offensive team.
Miguel drove in 6, including a huge grand slam that turned a lead into a rout. He is hitting .611!!!
Lost stat in the offensive explosion....ZERO errors today! Good defense all the way around. Brandon made a tremendous play early in the game and even Carlos made a nice play in LF.
Nice win. Now, lets win the series.
Thursday, April 9, 2009
Game 4 : Record 1-3
My new least favorite player is Adam Everett. Who's NOT your Tiger? They sign this guy for defense, bat him at the bottom of the order and he can neither hit nor defend to save his life so far. Two more misplays today. Neither were errors, but so what. He makes a nice diving stop on one ball but is unable to even make a throw, then drops the ball when trying to turn two. Not happy with him. If the guy cannot hit and they do not expect him to hit, then just play Santiago at SS everyday and let this guy be the backup.
Porcello was impressive in his major league debut today. His line: 5.0 IP, 9 H, 4 ER, 1 BB, 4 SO. Not great, but not too bad for a 20 year old in his first start. He gave up two long balls which hurt and of course, the bullpen allowed one of his runners to score.
Miguel had another hit, going 1 for 3 to drop his average to .615. Not too bad. Curtis went deep for the 2nd time this young season.
Key points in the game:
Top of the 3rd when the Tigers left the bases loaded.
Top of the 4th when Santiago reached on infield single, then Everett doubled but Santiago was thrown out at home. Everett advanced to third on the play at the plate, but Curtis struck out to end the inning.
Too many missed opportunities.
Of course, the game effectively ended in the bottom of the 6th when the score changed from 2-2 to 6-2 on a couple home runs and a long double (off 3 different pitchers).
Porcello was impressive in his major league debut today. His line: 5.0 IP, 9 H, 4 ER, 1 BB, 4 SO. Not great, but not too bad for a 20 year old in his first start. He gave up two long balls which hurt and of course, the bullpen allowed one of his runners to score.
Miguel had another hit, going 1 for 3 to drop his average to .615. Not too bad. Curtis went deep for the 2nd time this young season.
Key points in the game:
Top of the 3rd when the Tigers left the bases loaded.
Top of the 4th when Santiago reached on infield single, then Everett doubled but Santiago was thrown out at home. Everett advanced to third on the play at the plate, but Curtis struck out to end the inning.
Too many missed opportunities.
Of course, the game effectively ended in the bottom of the 6th when the score changed from 2-2 to 6-2 on a couple home runs and a long double (off 3 different pitchers).
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Game 3 : Record 1-2
Miner & Cabrera to the rescue!
Miguel has had an outstanding start to the 2009 season and so has Brandon Inge. Miguell hit a 3 run bomb in the first inning to stake the Tigers to a 3-0 lead, then hit an absolute monster solo shot to center field in the 5th. He is hitting an incredible .700 in the young season.
Brandon added his 3rd HR of the season in the 6th to end the scoring.
Zach started out with a very shaky first inning where he gave up 1 run and stranded 2 more when the inning ended. But, he worked through it and located his pitches better from the 2nd inning onward.
Miner's final line: 5.2 IP, 6 H, 1 ER, 2 BB, 4 SO. Really, really good job.
I liked having Santiago at SS. He is better defensively than almost anybody, including Adam Everett and can hit better than we all tend to think.
Cannot wait to see Porcello pitch tomorrow night. His fellow fireballing rookie, Ryan Perry made his major league debut tonight and pitched an impressive 1-2-3 8th inning. He threw in the upper 90's the majority of his pitches, but threw a number of off speed pitches also. Very nice to see somebody come out of the pen and just shut the door. Also nice to see Rodney pitch an uneventful ninth inning.
Miguel has had an outstanding start to the 2009 season and so has Brandon Inge. Miguell hit a 3 run bomb in the first inning to stake the Tigers to a 3-0 lead, then hit an absolute monster solo shot to center field in the 5th. He is hitting an incredible .700 in the young season.
Brandon added his 3rd HR of the season in the 6th to end the scoring.
Zach started out with a very shaky first inning where he gave up 1 run and stranded 2 more when the inning ended. But, he worked through it and located his pitches better from the 2nd inning onward.
Miner's final line: 5.2 IP, 6 H, 1 ER, 2 BB, 4 SO. Really, really good job.
I liked having Santiago at SS. He is better defensively than almost anybody, including Adam Everett and can hit better than we all tend to think.
Cannot wait to see Porcello pitch tomorrow night. His fellow fireballing rookie, Ryan Perry made his major league debut tonight and pitched an impressive 1-2-3 8th inning. He threw in the upper 90's the majority of his pitches, but threw a number of off speed pitches also. Very nice to see somebody come out of the pen and just shut the door. Also nice to see Rodney pitch an uneventful ninth inning.
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Game 2 : Record 0-2
Thank you bullpen for screwing up this game. Thank you Brandon Lyon for ruining my night, for pissing me off and for putting the Tigers in an 0-2 hole to start the season.
A masterful outing by Edwin Jackson was spoiled.
Jackson's line: 7.1 IP, 2 H, 2 ER, 1 BB, 4 SO. Outstanding game in his Tigers debut until he was pulled after only 89 pitches in the 8th with a 3-0 lead. Bobby Seay came in to get one quick out and then Mr Lyon made his Tigers debut with much different results than Jackson.
Give up lead on a 3 run HR, check.
Watch Brandon Inge hit a monster HR in the top of the 9th to tie the game and temporarily save your butt cheeks, check.
Blow the game a second time in the bottom of the ninth, check.
Positives from tonight: Edwin Jackson, Miguel Cabrera, Brandon Inge.
Negatives: Lyon, defense (one huge error by Inge), 16 men left on base.
Ugh.
A masterful outing by Edwin Jackson was spoiled.
Jackson's line: 7.1 IP, 2 H, 2 ER, 1 BB, 4 SO. Outstanding game in his Tigers debut until he was pulled after only 89 pitches in the 8th with a 3-0 lead. Bobby Seay came in to get one quick out and then Mr Lyon made his Tigers debut with much different results than Jackson.
Give up lead on a 3 run HR, check.
Watch Brandon Inge hit a monster HR in the top of the 9th to tie the game and temporarily save your butt cheeks, check.
Blow the game a second time in the bottom of the ninth, check.
Positives from tonight: Edwin Jackson, Miguel Cabrera, Brandon Inge.
Negatives: Lyon, defense (one huge error by Inge), 16 men left on base.
Ugh.
Monday, April 6, 2009
Game 1 : Record 0-1
Verlander was throwing heat from the beginning, but had to throw way too many pitches. Was consistently in the upper 90's, which is a good sign, but the Jays were locked in on him and were hitting him pretty hard. He threw 62 pitches through 3 innings.
Final line for Justin: 3.2 IP, 8 H, 2 BB, 8 ER.
First 2 AB's were good for Curtis (BB and HR), followed by two horrible AB's by Placido (GIDP, pop out).
Halladay was impressive as usual. His final line: 7.0 IP, 6 H, 5 ER, 1 BB on 99 pitches.
Defense was not good. 2 big errors. Everett was supposed to be here for his defensive stability at SS and made a huge error.
Nice game by Brandon and Curtis. OK game by Bonine, although his first batter effectively ended the game at 9-1. Other than those guys, I give everybody else an F.
How about the classy those classy Toronto fans, littering the field with garbage and baseballs in the 8th inning with their team ahead 12-5? Pathetic. They seemed to be giving Anderson the business the whole game and he appeared to be the target of the baseball thrown on the field. Why? What did the kid do? Was this just a bunch of drunken a-holes or was their some give and take?
Final line for Justin: 3.2 IP, 8 H, 2 BB, 8 ER.
First 2 AB's were good for Curtis (BB and HR), followed by two horrible AB's by Placido (GIDP, pop out).
Halladay was impressive as usual. His final line: 7.0 IP, 6 H, 5 ER, 1 BB on 99 pitches.
Defense was not good. 2 big errors. Everett was supposed to be here for his defensive stability at SS and made a huge error.
Nice game by Brandon and Curtis. OK game by Bonine, although his first batter effectively ended the game at 9-1. Other than those guys, I give everybody else an F.
How about the classy those classy Toronto fans, littering the field with garbage and baseballs in the 8th inning with their team ahead 12-5? Pathetic. They seemed to be giving Anderson the business the whole game and he appeared to be the target of the baseball thrown on the field. Why? What did the kid do? Was this just a bunch of drunken a-holes or was their some give and take?
First Inning of 2009
Lets see how many bad things happened in the first inning.
1. Polanco hits into a DP.
2. Justin throws too many pitches even in the guys he got out.
3. Justin hits a batter.
4. Magglio has an error.
5. Gave up 4 runs.
6. Trail 4-0 after 1 inning.
Bad pitching, poor defense and really bad situational hitting. Just like 2008.
1. Polanco hits into a DP.
2. Justin throws too many pitches even in the guys he got out.
3. Justin hits a batter.
4. Magglio has an error.
5. Gave up 4 runs.
6. Trail 4-0 after 1 inning.
Bad pitching, poor defense and really bad situational hitting. Just like 2008.
2009 AL Central Prediction
Optimistic prediction
Tigers 94-68
White Sox 90-72
Indians 90-72
Twins 85-77
Royals 65-97
Realistic prediction
Indians 93-69
Tigers 89-73
White Sox 87-75
Twins 87-75
Royals 71-91
Pessimistic prediction
Indians 95-67
White Sox 89-73
Tigers 88-74
Twins 87-75
Royals 70-92
Super Pessimistic prediction
Indians 95-67
White Sox 89-73
Twins 85-77
Tigers 80-82
Royals 70-92
Tigers 94-68
White Sox 90-72
Indians 90-72
Twins 85-77
Royals 65-97
Realistic prediction
Indians 93-69
Tigers 89-73
White Sox 87-75
Twins 87-75
Royals 71-91
Pessimistic prediction
Indians 95-67
White Sox 89-73
Tigers 88-74
Twins 87-75
Royals 70-92
Super Pessimistic prediction
Indians 95-67
White Sox 89-73
Twins 85-77
Tigers 80-82
Royals 70-92
Season opens tonight in Toronto!!!!!
First pitch in approximately 8 hours!
Good thing the game is not in Detroit tonight as we have a few inches of snow on the ground and the NCAA Championship Game is right next door at Ford Field.
Tonight, Justin Verlander tries to get the season off to a good start.
Lets go Tigers, Lets go!
Good thing the game is not in Detroit tonight as we have a few inches of snow on the ground and the NCAA Championship Game is right next door at Ford Field.
Tonight, Justin Verlander tries to get the season off to a good start.
Lets go Tigers, Lets go!
Saturday, April 4, 2009
2006 versus 2009: Pitching Staff
2006 Starting Rotation
Kenny Rogers
Jeremy Bonderman
Nate Robertson
Mike Maroth (later Zach Miner)
Justin Verlander
Projected 2009 Opening Day Rotation
Justin Verlander
Edwin Jackson
Armando Galarraga
Rick Porcello
Zach Miner
Total number of wins by the 6 starters listed above in 2006: 73
If the 5 starters plus Bonderman approach that number in 2009, we will be in very good shape.
Here are my guesses for wins in 2009:
Verlander: 16
Jackson: 13
Galarraga : 15
Porcello: 5
Miner: 5
Bonderman: ?
Total without Bonderman: 54. If Jeremy can come back strong and wins 10-12 games, this makes the number jump to the mid 60's, which is much better. If he cannot, then I see this as a major dropoff from 2006.
The bullpen in 2006 was outstanding. They had 46 saves, 16 blown saves and 75 holds. Can this years group match that? Can Brandon Lyon match Todd Jones numbers from 2006 (37 saves and 6 blown saves)? Will Joel come back and be productive? Can Ryan Perry be a consistent major leaguer and fill the Zumaya role? These guys will have their opportunities.
The staff ERA in 2006 was 3.85, WHIP was 1.318 and opponents batting average was .257. It seems unlikely that they'll be able to match these numbers this year. However, it comes down to whether Justin can be dominate again & whether Jeremy can come back and be good. Also, will Porcello be a productive starter at the age of 20 and what happens in the 5th spot.
Overall, it seems like Kenny, Justin, Zach and Jeremy all had good -to- great years in 2006 that the guys in those spots probably will not be able to match. Justin is capable of winning 20 games, but the way he pitched last year, I do not see it. If he starts consistently pitching in the high 90's and occasionally touching 100, then he has a shot. However, I haven't seen him do that since his no-hitter in 2007.
Advantage: 2006
Kenny Rogers
Jeremy Bonderman
Nate Robertson
Mike Maroth (later Zach Miner)
Justin Verlander
Projected 2009 Opening Day Rotation
Justin Verlander
Edwin Jackson
Armando Galarraga
Rick Porcello
Zach Miner
Total number of wins by the 6 starters listed above in 2006: 73
If the 5 starters plus Bonderman approach that number in 2009, we will be in very good shape.
Here are my guesses for wins in 2009:
Verlander: 16
Jackson: 13
Galarraga : 15
Porcello: 5
Miner: 5
Bonderman: ?
Total without Bonderman: 54. If Jeremy can come back strong and wins 10-12 games, this makes the number jump to the mid 60's, which is much better. If he cannot, then I see this as a major dropoff from 2006.
The bullpen in 2006 was outstanding. They had 46 saves, 16 blown saves and 75 holds. Can this years group match that? Can Brandon Lyon match Todd Jones numbers from 2006 (37 saves and 6 blown saves)? Will Joel come back and be productive? Can Ryan Perry be a consistent major leaguer and fill the Zumaya role? These guys will have their opportunities.
The staff ERA in 2006 was 3.85, WHIP was 1.318 and opponents batting average was .257. It seems unlikely that they'll be able to match these numbers this year. However, it comes down to whether Justin can be dominate again & whether Jeremy can come back and be good. Also, will Porcello be a productive starter at the age of 20 and what happens in the 5th spot.
Overall, it seems like Kenny, Justin, Zach and Jeremy all had good -to- great years in 2006 that the guys in those spots probably will not be able to match. Justin is capable of winning 20 games, but the way he pitched last year, I do not see it. If he starts consistently pitching in the high 90's and occasionally touching 100, then he has a shot. However, I haven't seen him do that since his no-hitter in 2007.
Advantage: 2006
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
2009 Rotation
Based on what I have heard today, the Tigers 2009 Starting Rotation at the beginning of the season is set. It will be an all right handed rotation.
Verlander
Galarraga
Jackson
Porcello
and the coveted 5th spot goes to....Zach Miner.
Nate Robertson evidently will be working out of the pen, unless they plan to release him and eat his contract also.
As I have said previously, I have serious concerns about Miner but I am rooting for him and hope he does well. Seems like it will be a start-by-start tryout for Zach. Especially if Nate pitches well in relief.
Verlander
Galarraga
Jackson
Porcello
and the coveted 5th spot goes to....Zach Miner.
Nate Robertson evidently will be working out of the pen, unless they plan to release him and eat his contract also.
As I have said previously, I have serious concerns about Miner but I am rooting for him and hope he does well. Seems like it will be a start-by-start tryout for Zach. Especially if Nate pitches well in relief.
Roster is coming together
Roster moves today:
Porcello will start the season in the rotation.
Ryan Perry will start the season in the bullpen.
Raburn and Rapada sent down to Toledo.
Hessman placed on waivers. If he clears waivers, it sounds like he will look for work in Japan before accepting the minor league stint in Toledo. Do not blame him one bit.
When Jeremy Bonderman went on the DL, it opened the door for Porcello and he walked through it by having some very good spring training outings. Good for him. Congratulations young man! Welcome to the big leagues.
By all accounts, Perry was one of the most impressive youngsters in camp this year. He earned his spot in Detroit from the beginning of spring training and did not require an injury to make it. Double congrats!
Will Porcello and Perry turn into Verlander/Zumaya from 2006? Will it be enough? What if they are Verlander/Zumaya AND we get the real Justin and Joel back this year? Can't let myself think of that possibility...too good to think about....must resist the thought.
Porcello will start the season in the rotation.
Ryan Perry will start the season in the bullpen.
Raburn and Rapada sent down to Toledo.
Hessman placed on waivers. If he clears waivers, it sounds like he will look for work in Japan before accepting the minor league stint in Toledo. Do not blame him one bit.
When Jeremy Bonderman went on the DL, it opened the door for Porcello and he walked through it by having some very good spring training outings. Good for him. Congratulations young man! Welcome to the big leagues.
By all accounts, Perry was one of the most impressive youngsters in camp this year. He earned his spot in Detroit from the beginning of spring training and did not require an injury to make it. Double congrats!
Will Porcello and Perry turn into Verlander/Zumaya from 2006? Will it be enough? What if they are Verlander/Zumaya AND we get the real Justin and Joel back this year? Can't let myself think of that possibility...too good to think about....must resist the thought.
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