Game 82: Record 44-38

Absolutely disgustingly frustrating loss

This game, more than any other so far this season has highlighted the differences between the 2006 and 2009 Detroit Tigers.

In 2006, Magglio Ordonez was a decent fielder with a strong arm.
In 2006, Joel Zumaya & Fernando Rodney were lights-out 99% of the time.

On July 6, 2009 Magglio has a "hit" fall two steps in front of him to the leadoff hitter of the 8th inning with the Tigers nursing a 2-1 lead. That run, of course, scored to tie the game. In 2006, Magglio makes that catch. In 2009 he doesn't even make an effort ... cannot make the play. Any other defensive replacement in the 8th (Kelly, Anderson, Raburn) make that play.

On July 6, 2009 Joel enters the game in the 8th with a 2-1 lead. He gives up 2 runs and the Royals take a 3-2 lead. Tigers then tie it in the bottom of the 8th.

On July 6, 2009 Fernando enters in the 9th with the score tied and gives up a solo moon shot and they lose 4-3.

This was a game they gave away after an outstanding performance by Armando. His line was impressive:

7.0 IP, 5 H, 1 ER, 1 BB, 7 SO. They need this out of him, especially with RP starting to show some rookie wear and tear.

Adam Everett continues to ... uhh.... NOT be my Tiger. Grounding into a DP with the bases loaded and 1 out, misplays in the field with the occassional nice play that he is supposed to make. I am just not a fan of his.