Athletics blow past Porcello and Tigers...or so I have read
No power in Chelsea last night forces me to rely on the box score for this one. RP had his second straight poor outing. Couple that with the offense still struggling and you have a bad loss to a bad team.
Armando goes tonight. He has pitched better of late, but not much to show for it. Lets hope he continues to improve and can come out the game tonight with a win.
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Sunday, June 28, 2009
Game 75: Record 42-33
Brandon with the massive bomb
Tigers are losing 3-2 in the 9th inning with two outs and a full count on Marcus. He works a walk to keep the inning and the game alive. Brandon comes up to the dish and smashes one deep and gone to left. A no-doubt-about-it, toss-the-bat-and-trot kind of home run that had the pitcher on his knees and me on my feet. Clutch homer that saved the Tigers from a sweep.
Edwin pitched really good again and is happy with the no-decision because he was one strike away from a really disheartening loss. EJ has just been outstanding all year. I think he has only had one or two bad outings the entire season. He just has not gotten the run support to get as many wins as he deserves. Plus, today he was pulled for a pinch hitter in the 8th. Had this been an AL game, he would have had a chance to go back out there in the bottom of the 8th and may have gotten a win. No worries, though. The team wins that is all that matters.
On to Oakland for 3, then to the crappy dome in Minneapolis.
Tigers are losing 3-2 in the 9th inning with two outs and a full count on Marcus. He works a walk to keep the inning and the game alive. Brandon comes up to the dish and smashes one deep and gone to left. A no-doubt-about-it, toss-the-bat-and-trot kind of home run that had the pitcher on his knees and me on my feet. Clutch homer that saved the Tigers from a sweep.
Edwin pitched really good again and is happy with the no-decision because he was one strike away from a really disheartening loss. EJ has just been outstanding all year. I think he has only had one or two bad outings the entire season. He just has not gotten the run support to get as many wins as he deserves. Plus, today he was pulled for a pinch hitter in the 8th. Had this been an AL game, he would have had a chance to go back out there in the bottom of the 8th and may have gotten a win. No worries, though. The team wins that is all that matters.
On to Oakland for 3, then to the crappy dome in Minneapolis.
Game 74: Record 41-33
We have a problem in Houston.
Alfredo Figaro pitched his second big league game and it did not go well. He gave up 10 hits and 8 runs in 6 complete innings of work. The Tigers got clobbered 8-1. They now have lost 2 straight to the Astros after coming into the series with a 7 game winnings streak.
On the bright side, Freddy Dolsi pitched in his first game with the Tigers in 2009 and went 2 complete innings. He gave up 3 hits, but zero runs. Hopefully he can use this as a springboard to give Leyland a good right-handed option of the pen.
Also, Ramon hit another HR. Makes you wonder again about the decision the skipper made to pinch hit for him in the ninth. I'm just saying....
They have to salvage one game Sunday with Edwin on the mound. Last interleague game of the year and they can finish with a winning record, then it is on to Oakland.
Alfredo Figaro pitched his second big league game and it did not go well. He gave up 10 hits and 8 runs in 6 complete innings of work. The Tigers got clobbered 8-1. They now have lost 2 straight to the Astros after coming into the series with a 7 game winnings streak.
On the bright side, Freddy Dolsi pitched in his first game with the Tigers in 2009 and went 2 complete innings. He gave up 3 hits, but zero runs. Hopefully he can use this as a springboard to give Leyland a good right-handed option of the pen.
Also, Ramon hit another HR. Makes you wonder again about the decision the skipper made to pinch hit for him in the ninth. I'm just saying....
They have to salvage one game Sunday with Edwin on the mound. Last interleague game of the year and they can finish with a winning record, then it is on to Oakland.
Saturday, June 27, 2009
Game 73: Record 41-32
Cannot count the number of missed opportunities.
Tigers absolutely let one get away against the Astros. This is a game they should have won and won easily. Justin pitched well again, although didn't make it deep enough into the game.
Joel gave up 2 runs in the 8th when he suddenly could not throw a strike and that was the difference, blew the save, blew the game and took the loss. Not good.
The Tigers had plenty of opportunities to add runs when they led, but continually let the opportunities slip away. They left 11 men on base, but that doesn't really tell the whole story. Lots of chances with men on base and less than 2 outs.
Curious move of pinch hitting Raburn for Santiago in the 9th. Leyland went to the same well that worked last time, but Ryan grounded out meekly to end the game this time around.
Two more againt Houston.
Tigers absolutely let one get away against the Astros. This is a game they should have won and won easily. Justin pitched well again, although didn't make it deep enough into the game.
Joel gave up 2 runs in the 8th when he suddenly could not throw a strike and that was the difference, blew the save, blew the game and took the loss. Not good.
The Tigers had plenty of opportunities to add runs when they led, but continually let the opportunities slip away. They left 11 men on base, but that doesn't really tell the whole story. Lots of chances with men on base and less than 2 outs.
Curious move of pinch hitting Raburn for Santiago in the 9th. Leyland went to the same well that worked last time, but Ryan grounded out meekly to end the game this time around.
Two more againt Houston.
Friday, June 26, 2009
Games 71-72: Record 41-31
Porcello keeps his rookie label just a label.
RP was good again the other day as he and the Tigers beat Rich Harden and the Cubbies in the first of 3.
After completing the sweep on Thursday afternoon, the Tigers find themselves 10 games over .500! This is the high water mark so far in 2009 and the best they have been since 2007. Great job with two straight sweeps and 7 wins in a row.
Jackson had another strong outing, but did not get a win (what else is new?) when the pen could not hold the small lead. Thats OK, yet again, because they won the game.
Miguel, Curtis, Ramon and Magglio went deep in these two games. Was great to see Magglio hit one out, but really good to see him pull the ball hard down into the left field seats. This is a good sign because it means he was picking the ball up early and hit it where he wanted to. I like it when he is slapping the ball to right, but his greatest strength as a hitter is that he can hit the ball to right for a single and also pull the ball down the left field line for a HR. He needs to be able to do both.
Three in Houston starting Friday night, then it is back to AL games.
RP was good again the other day as he and the Tigers beat Rich Harden and the Cubbies in the first of 3.
After completing the sweep on Thursday afternoon, the Tigers find themselves 10 games over .500! This is the high water mark so far in 2009 and the best they have been since 2007. Great job with two straight sweeps and 7 wins in a row.
Jackson had another strong outing, but did not get a win (what else is new?) when the pen could not hold the small lead. Thats OK, yet again, because they won the game.
Miguel, Curtis, Ramon and Magglio went deep in these two games. Was great to see Magglio hit one out, but really good to see him pull the ball hard down into the left field seats. This is a good sign because it means he was picking the ball up early and hit it where he wanted to. I like it when he is slapping the ball to right, but his greatest strength as a hitter is that he can hit the ball to right for a single and also pull the ball down the left field line for a HR. He needs to be able to do both.
Three in Houston starting Friday night, then it is back to AL games.
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Game 70: Record 39-31
Roller coasters still exist, even without Todd Jones
Wow. What a game.
Game is tied 1-1 from the first inning until the 6th.
Tigers are down 2-1 in the bottom of the 7th and Brandon Inge hits a 2 run jack to put the Tigers ahead 3-2.
Joel Zumaya gives up an dramatic 2 run HR in the top of the 8th and the Cubs lead 4-3 entering the 9th.
Lead off walk in the 9th to Don Kelly. Then Leyland amazingly pinch hits Ryan Raburn for Josh Anderson. I am not the biggest Raburn fan in the world, but on the second pitch of the at-bat, Ryan hit a changeup a ton. How about a 2 run walk-off HR to left-center. A deep, dramatic, unbelievable, jaw-dropping, goose bump-inducing home run.
Wow.
Very exiting stuff.
Edwin pitched great yet again, but when Joel gave up the lead in the 8th, Edwin was left with a no-decision. Thats OK as long as the team wins the game.
Two more against the Cubbies. Porcello v Harden is next up.
Wow. What a game.
Game is tied 1-1 from the first inning until the 6th.
Tigers are down 2-1 in the bottom of the 7th and Brandon Inge hits a 2 run jack to put the Tigers ahead 3-2.
Joel Zumaya gives up an dramatic 2 run HR in the top of the 8th and the Cubs lead 4-3 entering the 9th.
Lead off walk in the 9th to Don Kelly. Then Leyland amazingly pinch hits Ryan Raburn for Josh Anderson. I am not the biggest Raburn fan in the world, but on the second pitch of the at-bat, Ryan hit a changeup a ton. How about a 2 run walk-off HR to left-center. A deep, dramatic, unbelievable, jaw-dropping, goose bump-inducing home run.
Wow.
Very exiting stuff.
Edwin pitched great yet again, but when Joel gave up the lead in the 8th, Edwin was left with a no-decision. Thats OK as long as the team wins the game.
Two more against the Cubbies. Porcello v Harden is next up.
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
The Blown Save
I was watching the Tigers game the other day when Mario and Rod proudly proclaimed that Fernando Rodney was 13 for 13 in save opportunities. He is now officially 14 for 14. Meaning he has not blown any saves this year. Meaning every time he has come into a game with a save opportunity, he got it. At least that is what I thought the statistic meant.
As soon as FSD's dynamic duo made this statement, I was puzzled because I remembered F-Rod messing up one save. I'm getting older, so I decided to delay any immediate objection to the statement. However, upon looking back and finding the game, I am convinced that he should be 14 for 15 with 1 blown save.
The game in question was Game #58. It was a 7-6 extra inning win versus the Chicago White Sox on June 9, 2009.
In this game, Fernando entered to start the ninth inning with a 6-3 lead. He faced 3 batters, walked all 3 and recorded no outs. Brandon Lyon came in to replace him and allowed all 3 of Fernando's runners to score. So, when Fernando's line was finished, the game was tied 6-6. How is this NOT a blown save? If he gets three outs, the Tigers win and he gets a save. If he gives up 3 or more runs, the Tigers either lose or to go extra innings and this should be a save opportunity blown. Just because the Tigers won in extra innings should not matter.
I do not believe that blown saves are an official MLB statistic, but the stat is listed everywhere and talked about. I would like for somebody to explain how F-Rod is still "perfect" in save opportunities despite having let this one get away.
As soon as FSD's dynamic duo made this statement, I was puzzled because I remembered F-Rod messing up one save. I'm getting older, so I decided to delay any immediate objection to the statement. However, upon looking back and finding the game, I am convinced that he should be 14 for 15 with 1 blown save.
The game in question was Game #58. It was a 7-6 extra inning win versus the Chicago White Sox on June 9, 2009.
In this game, Fernando entered to start the ninth inning with a 6-3 lead. He faced 3 batters, walked all 3 and recorded no outs. Brandon Lyon came in to replace him and allowed all 3 of Fernando's runners to score. So, when Fernando's line was finished, the game was tied 6-6. How is this NOT a blown save? If he gets three outs, the Tigers win and he gets a save. If he gives up 3 or more runs, the Tigers either lose or to go extra innings and this should be a save opportunity blown. Just because the Tigers won in extra innings should not matter.
I do not believe that blown saves are an official MLB statistic, but the stat is listed everywhere and talked about. I would like for somebody to explain how F-Rod is still "perfect" in save opportunities despite having let this one get away.
Monday, June 22, 2009
Game 69: Record 38-31
Justin is Justin
Thats all you need to know about Sunday's game. Justin Verlander was virtually unhittable yet again. He gave up two solo home runs and the Tigers won 3-2 after Brandon hit a 3 run bomb in the 6th inning.
Justin's line is typical of him:
7.2 IP, 5 H, 2 ER, 8 SO, 3 BB
Fernando pitched another clean ninth inning for his 14th save. Very nicely pitched game for both teams. Tigers scored bunches of runs on both Friday and Saturday, but needed a huge hit in this one and they got it from Brandon. Nice to see them win big, win with offense and then win a pitcher's duel.
Day off Monday and then three versus the Cubs.
Thats all you need to know about Sunday's game. Justin Verlander was virtually unhittable yet again. He gave up two solo home runs and the Tigers won 3-2 after Brandon hit a 3 run bomb in the 6th inning.
Justin's line is typical of him:
7.2 IP, 5 H, 2 ER, 8 SO, 3 BB
Fernando pitched another clean ninth inning for his 14th save. Very nicely pitched game for both teams. Tigers scored bunches of runs on both Friday and Saturday, but needed a huge hit in this one and they got it from Brandon. Nice to see them win big, win with offense and then win a pitcher's duel.
Day off Monday and then three versus the Cubs.
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Game 68: Record 37-31
Figaro, Figaro, Fi-Ga-Ro!!!!
Alfredo Figaro was impressive in his first ever start. He threw 96 pitches in 5 complete innings and got a win to show for it. His line:
5.0 IP, 8 H, 2 ER, 7 SO, 2 BB
Nice job, young man! He labored a couple of the innings and I was worried that he wouldn't be able to complete 5 and even have a chance for the win, but he got a couple of quick innings and did the job. The pen was OK. Fernando pitched a clean 9th inning with no walks and 1 strike out - boy was that nice to see.
Miguel had a single, double and a long HR. I think somebody would have to fall down in the outfield for him to ever get a triple, though. Marcus also had 3 hits. Lots of offensive hero's when you score 9 times and have 17 hits. Loved seeing Placido hit one out also. That just doesn't happen very often.
It was a fun game to attend because there were lots of hits and lots of runs. There were people in the rows above and below us that left when the 9th inning began. The fat guy in the row in front of us muttered that he'd seen enough of Rodney. I do not understand how you can make the effort to drive to downtown Detroit, park your car, pay for your tickets and then leave with 3 outs left to go. It just does not make sense to me.
Alfredo Figaro was impressive in his first ever start. He threw 96 pitches in 5 complete innings and got a win to show for it. His line:
5.0 IP, 8 H, 2 ER, 7 SO, 2 BB
Nice job, young man! He labored a couple of the innings and I was worried that he wouldn't be able to complete 5 and even have a chance for the win, but he got a couple of quick innings and did the job. The pen was OK. Fernando pitched a clean 9th inning with no walks and 1 strike out - boy was that nice to see.
Miguel had a single, double and a long HR. I think somebody would have to fall down in the outfield for him to ever get a triple, though. Marcus also had 3 hits. Lots of offensive hero's when you score 9 times and have 17 hits. Loved seeing Placido hit one out also. That just doesn't happen very often.
It was a fun game to attend because there were lots of hits and lots of runs. There were people in the rows above and below us that left when the 9th inning began. The fat guy in the row in front of us muttered that he'd seen enough of Rodney. I do not understand how you can make the effort to drive to downtown Detroit, park your car, pay for your tickets and then leave with 3 outs left to go. It just does not make sense to me.
Saturday, June 20, 2009
Game 67: Record 36-31
Newsflash: Tigers offense was not offensive!
Tigers pounded the Brewers for 10 runs in only 7 1/3 inning of game action. Horrible rains swept through SE Michigan and the game was called in the bottom of the 7th with 1 out and the score 10-4.
Marcus went deep twice, Curtis once and Dusty Ryan hit a long double.
Armando pitched well enough to win...and would have won if not for the rain. He did not re-enter the game after a long delay in the 4th. Bummer for him because he really could have used a win. Zach pitched well in relief and got the win.
I am going to Comerica tomorrow and will see first hand the youngster Alfredo Figaro. Looking forward to it.
Tigers pounded the Brewers for 10 runs in only 7 1/3 inning of game action. Horrible rains swept through SE Michigan and the game was called in the bottom of the 7th with 1 out and the score 10-4.
Marcus went deep twice, Curtis once and Dusty Ryan hit a long double.
Armando pitched well enough to win...and would have won if not for the rain. He did not re-enter the game after a long delay in the 4th. Bummer for him because he really could have used a win. Zach pitched well in relief and got the win.
I am going to Comerica tomorrow and will see first hand the youngster Alfredo Figaro. Looking forward to it.
Friday, June 19, 2009
Game 66: Record 35-31
Porcello very good, offense just enough to beat St Louis
Rick Porcello pitched 5.2 strong innings, allowing 3 runs, but only 1 of them was earned because of some bad defense yet again. RP now has 8 wins on the season, which is amazing considering he is only 20 years old. He will have a shot at having 10 wins by the All Star break, which is usually a good benchmark for pitchers to participate in the All Star game. My guess would be that Leyland would discourage Joe Maddon from selecting RP so that his arm can rest for those days.
The offense scored 4 in the first inning, but then went dorment until the 8th when Placido and Marcus both went deep.
This was a nice team win and it was good to win the last game of this 11 game road trip. They have lost 2 of 3 on all inter-league series so far in 2009, which is a major reversal from prior years.
Brewers start a 3 game series at Comerica Friday. I will be there to see the game on Saturday.
Rick Porcello pitched 5.2 strong innings, allowing 3 runs, but only 1 of them was earned because of some bad defense yet again. RP now has 8 wins on the season, which is amazing considering he is only 20 years old. He will have a shot at having 10 wins by the All Star break, which is usually a good benchmark for pitchers to participate in the All Star game. My guess would be that Leyland would discourage Joe Maddon from selecting RP so that his arm can rest for those days.
The offense scored 4 in the first inning, but then went dorment until the 8th when Placido and Marcus both went deep.
This was a nice team win and it was good to win the last game of this 11 game road trip. They have lost 2 of 3 on all inter-league series so far in 2009, which is a major reversal from prior years.
Brewers start a 3 game series at Comerica Friday. I will be there to see the game on Saturday.
Thursday, June 18, 2009
Game 65: Record 34-31
Offense still on vacation
The Tigers dropped yet another game to the NL. They only scored 3 runs, two of which came on solo homers from Curtis. Edwin pitched very well, certainly good enough to win but he was pulled for a pinch hitter in the 7th. Joel came in and in 1 inning of work walked 3 and gave up 1 hit. He had the bases loaded and walked in the eventual winning run. Edwin took the loss, but it was Joel that gave up the crucial run.
The offense is becoming a major concern. They just cannot get the bats going. Leyland has tried about every different combination that can be imagined. The players just aren't getting the job done. And when they do hit, then the pitching isn't good enough.
They have to salvage one win in this series with RP pitching. Then they come home to face the Brew crew.
The Tigers dropped yet another game to the NL. They only scored 3 runs, two of which came on solo homers from Curtis. Edwin pitched very well, certainly good enough to win but he was pulled for a pinch hitter in the 7th. Joel came in and in 1 inning of work walked 3 and gave up 1 hit. He had the bases loaded and walked in the eventual winning run. Edwin took the loss, but it was Joel that gave up the crucial run.
The offense is becoming a major concern. They just cannot get the bats going. Leyland has tried about every different combination that can be imagined. The players just aren't getting the job done. And when they do hit, then the pitching isn't good enough.
They have to salvage one win in this series with RP pitching. Then they come home to face the Brew crew.
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Game 64: Record 34-30
Cards blow away Verlander and Tigers
Justin was bound to have a bad outing one of these days and hopefully this was the only one of these we'll see for a while. He only lasted 5 innings, gave up 8 hits, 5 runs and walked 2. He was not well served by some bad defense, but he just didn't have it for this game. The Cardinals scored 4 in the first and did not look back.
Nate came in for the 6th and gave up 4 runs without recording a single out. Then young Ryan Perry came in and gave up 2 more runs, including a moon shot from Mr Pujols. Complete, all around butt kicking. Bad defense, bad pitching, bad offense. Two long balls from Brandon and Miguel were the only swings that kept this from being a shutout.
Edwin on the hill next. Have to get a win to stop this 3 game slide. Plus, Armando is next after Edwin. Dontrelle will not be starting on Saturday against the Brewers, but it has not been announced who will start in his place. My guess is that it'll be Zach Miner. I will be at Comerica for this game and already saw Zach pitch this year. Would love to see somebody else, but with Jeremy on the DL and probably lost for the year, D-Train not being able to find the strike zone and Nate stinking up the bullpen I think the choices are slim.
Justin was bound to have a bad outing one of these days and hopefully this was the only one of these we'll see for a while. He only lasted 5 innings, gave up 8 hits, 5 runs and walked 2. He was not well served by some bad defense, but he just didn't have it for this game. The Cardinals scored 4 in the first and did not look back.
Nate came in for the 6th and gave up 4 runs without recording a single out. Then young Ryan Perry came in and gave up 2 more runs, including a moon shot from Mr Pujols. Complete, all around butt kicking. Bad defense, bad pitching, bad offense. Two long balls from Brandon and Miguel were the only swings that kept this from being a shutout.
Edwin on the hill next. Have to get a win to stop this 3 game slide. Plus, Armando is next after Edwin. Dontrelle will not be starting on Saturday against the Brewers, but it has not been announced who will start in his place. My guess is that it'll be Zach Miner. I will be at Comerica for this game and already saw Zach pitch this year. Would love to see somebody else, but with Jeremy on the DL and probably lost for the year, D-Train not being able to find the strike zone and Nate stinking up the bullpen I think the choices are slim.
Sunday, June 14, 2009
Game 63: Record 34-29
D-Train not on track, Tigers drop another interleague series
The last few years, the Tigers have been fantastic in interleague games, but they lost 2 of 3 to Colorado at Comerica Park a few weeks ago and now they lost 2 of 3 in Pittsburgh. Dontrelle was just not good, again and the offense seems to have gone on summer vacation along with our children.
Dontrelle's line is really bad:
3.2 IP, 6 H, 6 ER, 8 BB, 1 SO
8 walks in 3 2/3 inning! Horrible. It is getting to the point now, where they are almost guaranteed 2 straight losses when it is Armando and Dontrelle's turn in the rotation. I think Leyland and DD need to do something before the next time around. This cannot continue. Either Zach or Nate (or both) get a start instead of these guys or they need to bring up somebody or make a trade happen quickly (unlikely).
I can't think of a time when the top 3 in a rotation were so good and the bottom two so bad. Justin, Edwin and Rick are consistently pitching out of their minds, while Armando and Dontrelle continue to drive us crazy.
Next up, day off on Monday followed by a series in St Louis. I expect a series win with JV, EJ and RP pitching.
The last few years, the Tigers have been fantastic in interleague games, but they lost 2 of 3 to Colorado at Comerica Park a few weeks ago and now they lost 2 of 3 in Pittsburgh. Dontrelle was just not good, again and the offense seems to have gone on summer vacation along with our children.
Dontrelle's line is really bad:
3.2 IP, 6 H, 6 ER, 8 BB, 1 SO
8 walks in 3 2/3 inning! Horrible. It is getting to the point now, where they are almost guaranteed 2 straight losses when it is Armando and Dontrelle's turn in the rotation. I think Leyland and DD need to do something before the next time around. This cannot continue. Either Zach or Nate (or both) get a start instead of these guys or they need to bring up somebody or make a trade happen quickly (unlikely).
I can't think of a time when the top 3 in a rotation were so good and the bottom two so bad. Justin, Edwin and Rick are consistently pitching out of their minds, while Armando and Dontrelle continue to drive us crazy.
Next up, day off on Monday followed by a series in St Louis. I expect a series win with JV, EJ and RP pitching.
Game 62: Record 34-28
Galarraga continues to struggle
Armando only lasted 2 innings and gave up 4 runs. Nate then came in and lasted 2 innings and gave up 4 runs. Not a recipe for success.
The Pirates hit Tigers pitching hard and won 9-3 on Saturday. Not a good performance by the pitchers or the offense.
Dontrelle pitches on Sunday and if he struggles again, then I will be officially very concerned about the bottom of the rotation. Armando just cannot seem to get it together, D-Train is a wild card and Jeremy did not look good in his one start last Monday.
Our rotation 1-3 is outstanding, but the 4 and 5 spots are not good right now. The bullpen has been good but inconsistant. Defense has been solid of late and the offense has been good enough.
Lets get this win and win the series!!!
Armando only lasted 2 innings and gave up 4 runs. Nate then came in and lasted 2 innings and gave up 4 runs. Not a recipe for success.
The Pirates hit Tigers pitching hard and won 9-3 on Saturday. Not a good performance by the pitchers or the offense.
Dontrelle pitches on Sunday and if he struggles again, then I will be officially very concerned about the bottom of the rotation. Armando just cannot seem to get it together, D-Train is a wild card and Jeremy did not look good in his one start last Monday.
Our rotation 1-3 is outstanding, but the 4 and 5 spots are not good right now. The bullpen has been good but inconsistant. Defense has been solid of late and the offense has been good enough.
Lets get this win and win the series!!!
Saturday, June 13, 2009
Game 61: Record 34-27
Porcello dominates Pittsburgh
On a night where this Detroit-Pittsburgh matchup took a backseat the Game 7 of the Stanley Cup finals, the Tigers young pitcher was the story in many ways. Rich Porcell had his best outing as a professional ... and he already had some very good outings, but this one was special. His line:
7.0 IP, 6 H, 1 ER, 1 BB, 2 SO.
This was an interleague game played in Pittsburgh, so Rick also had three at-bats. His "other" line might even be more impressive than his pitching line:
3 AB, 2 H, 2 RBI, .667 BA.
The Tigers won this game 3-1 and Rick drove in two of those three runs. Truly amazing. Leyland said after the game that Rick looked like he knew what he was doing at the plate and that he supposedly was a good hitter in High School, but he never expected him to get a hit. High School pitching is one thing, but this is the big leagues. He did it. Then he got another hit later for good measure.
Also, Placido Polanco went 4-4 with 2 doubles and 2 singles to raise his average to .262.
Two more games in Pittsburgh. Lets get them all.
Also...congrats to the Penguins for winning the cup. Lets hope for a 3rd straight matchup in the Finals next year.
On a night where this Detroit-Pittsburgh matchup took a backseat the Game 7 of the Stanley Cup finals, the Tigers young pitcher was the story in many ways. Rich Porcell had his best outing as a professional ... and he already had some very good outings, but this one was special. His line:
7.0 IP, 6 H, 1 ER, 1 BB, 2 SO.
This was an interleague game played in Pittsburgh, so Rick also had three at-bats. His "other" line might even be more impressive than his pitching line:
3 AB, 2 H, 2 RBI, .667 BA.
The Tigers won this game 3-1 and Rick drove in two of those three runs. Truly amazing. Leyland said after the game that Rick looked like he knew what he was doing at the plate and that he supposedly was a good hitter in High School, but he never expected him to get a hit. High School pitching is one thing, but this is the big leagues. He did it. Then he got another hit later for good measure.
Also, Placido Polanco went 4-4 with 2 doubles and 2 singles to raise his average to .262.
Two more games in Pittsburgh. Lets get them all.
Also...congrats to the Penguins for winning the cup. Lets hope for a 3rd straight matchup in the Finals next year.
Friday, June 12, 2009
Game 60: Record 33-27
Grandy's heroics undone by Zumaya
Tigers trailed the entire game until Ryan Raburn got a hit on an 0-2 count off White Sox closer and Tiger killer, Bobby Jenks. He stole second and with two outs in the bottom of the ninth, Jenks was just one out from ending the game with a 3-1 win for the Sox. Then Curtis came up and hit him, hard. He pulled the ball into the right field stands to tie the game in the top of the ninth. Awesome!
Then came the bottom of the ninth, where Joel did not record an out, even when the White Sox tried to give him one with a sacrafice. He gave up 2 hits, a walk had an error and got the loss. It was considered an unearned run because of the error, but it was his own error. Not good. Joel was throwing his usual heat - upper 90's to 100. But that isn't good enough if you do not have movement and you aren't throwing your off-speed stuff much or for strikes. These guys just sit on the fastball and can hit it. These are major league hitters and they will catch up with it.
Edwin pitched well, but not as good as usual and as a result, he was out of the game after 5 innings. Brandon Lyon pitched good in relief again, then Nate came in and gave up a long ball to Pierzynski (hate that guy).
Tigers trailed the entire game until Ryan Raburn got a hit on an 0-2 count off White Sox closer and Tiger killer, Bobby Jenks. He stole second and with two outs in the bottom of the ninth, Jenks was just one out from ending the game with a 3-1 win for the Sox. Then Curtis came up and hit him, hard. He pulled the ball into the right field stands to tie the game in the top of the ninth. Awesome!
Then came the bottom of the ninth, where Joel did not record an out, even when the White Sox tried to give him one with a sacrafice. He gave up 2 hits, a walk had an error and got the loss. It was considered an unearned run because of the error, but it was his own error. Not good. Joel was throwing his usual heat - upper 90's to 100. But that isn't good enough if you do not have movement and you aren't throwing your off-speed stuff much or for strikes. These guys just sit on the fastball and can hit it. These are major league hitters and they will catch up with it.
Edwin pitched well, but not as good as usual and as a result, he was out of the game after 5 innings. Brandon Lyon pitched good in relief again, then Nate came in and gave up a long ball to Pierzynski (hate that guy).
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Game 59: Record 33-26
Justin continues to amaze!
Mr Verlander pitched a complete game 6 hitter in a 2-1 win. He was dominate, over-powering, deceptive and completely in control the entire game. Only one pitch in 9 innings was not good - a solo HR that Jim Thome hit about 10 miles. Other than that, he was incredible again. He only walked 1 batter, which helped him keep his pitch count under control and allowed him to complete the game.
John Danks pitched well for the Sox, but good enough:
Two good lines, but one is much better:
JV: 9.0 IP, 6 H, 1 ER, 1 BB, 9 SO
Danks: 7.1 IP, 5 H, 2 ER, 2 BB, 7 SO
Not much offense in this game, but I must give credit to Adam Everett as he went deep in the 6th inning. His second HR of the season and it gave the Tigers a 1-0 lead. If he stays away from the errors, he is beginning to win me over...slowly.
The key sequence of the game was in the top of the 7th. Magglio hit a sharp single to RF and Miguel followed that with another single. Then, after an out, Brandon supposedly was hit with a pitch. It must have just clipped a small part of his jersey because it was not viewable on TV and even Brandon stayed in the batters box but the umpire sent him to first to load the bases. Then came a very nice at bat by Ryan Raburn. It took him 8 pitches, but he finally worked a walk to force in the Tigers second run and the winning run.
Great win that already seals a series win. They have their other ace, Edwin Jackson, pitching Thursday afternoon. Lets get this last game and take 4 of 5!!!!
Mr Verlander pitched a complete game 6 hitter in a 2-1 win. He was dominate, over-powering, deceptive and completely in control the entire game. Only one pitch in 9 innings was not good - a solo HR that Jim Thome hit about 10 miles. Other than that, he was incredible again. He only walked 1 batter, which helped him keep his pitch count under control and allowed him to complete the game.
John Danks pitched well for the Sox, but good enough:
Two good lines, but one is much better:
JV: 9.0 IP, 6 H, 1 ER, 1 BB, 9 SO
Danks: 7.1 IP, 5 H, 2 ER, 2 BB, 7 SO
Not much offense in this game, but I must give credit to Adam Everett as he went deep in the 6th inning. His second HR of the season and it gave the Tigers a 1-0 lead. If he stays away from the errors, he is beginning to win me over...slowly.
The key sequence of the game was in the top of the 7th. Magglio hit a sharp single to RF and Miguel followed that with another single. Then, after an out, Brandon supposedly was hit with a pitch. It must have just clipped a small part of his jersey because it was not viewable on TV and even Brandon stayed in the batters box but the umpire sent him to first to load the bases. Then came a very nice at bat by Ryan Raburn. It took him 8 pitches, but he finally worked a walk to force in the Tigers second run and the winning run.
Great win that already seals a series win. They have their other ace, Edwin Jackson, pitching Thursday afternoon. Lets get this last game and take 4 of 5!!!!
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Game 58: Record 32-26
An ugly win is still a win.
Dontrelle pitched OK, especially after falling and seemingly injuring his leg on a play at the plate (after a wild pitch) in the first inning. His last play of the game in the 5th was a great, great play that would make Kenny Rogers happy. Broken bat hit by Pierzynski that makes it past D-Train, who dives for it and throws him out by 2 steps from laying flat on his belly. Outstanding play that saved a run because that happened with the bases loaded.
Zach Minor pitched quite well in relief and got the win. Placido had a huge two out, bases loaded double to score 3 and give the Tigers a 6-3 lead that they would carry into the bottom of the 9th. Enter Fernando. Three batters later, 3 walks later, there are no outs, bases loaded and Brandon Lyon is coming in to releive the closer.
Brandon comes in to that mess and strikes out Dye (huge), then surrendors a double to Konerko that tied the game and nearly ended it. Nice play cutoff and turn by the Tigers to throw out Wise at the plate for out #2. Brandon then struck out Beckham to end the 9th.
In the 10th, Miguel went deep. He is a beast. Winning run as Lyon closed it out in the bottom of the 10th.
Nice win, especially considering they have JV and EJ going the next two days in Chicago.
Dontrelle pitched OK, especially after falling and seemingly injuring his leg on a play at the plate (after a wild pitch) in the first inning. His last play of the game in the 5th was a great, great play that would make Kenny Rogers happy. Broken bat hit by Pierzynski that makes it past D-Train, who dives for it and throws him out by 2 steps from laying flat on his belly. Outstanding play that saved a run because that happened with the bases loaded.
Zach Minor pitched quite well in relief and got the win. Placido had a huge two out, bases loaded double to score 3 and give the Tigers a 6-3 lead that they would carry into the bottom of the 9th. Enter Fernando. Three batters later, 3 walks later, there are no outs, bases loaded and Brandon Lyon is coming in to releive the closer.
Brandon comes in to that mess and strikes out Dye (huge), then surrendors a double to Konerko that tied the game and nearly ended it. Nice play cutoff and turn by the Tigers to throw out Wise at the plate for out #2. Brandon then struck out Beckham to end the 9th.
In the 10th, Miguel went deep. He is a beast. Winning run as Lyon closed it out in the bottom of the 10th.
Nice win, especially considering they have JV and EJ going the next two days in Chicago.
Games 56 and 57: Record 31-26
Splitsville in ChiTown.
Tigers split an old fashioned day-night double header on Monday in Chicago. They won the first game with Armando pitching and lost the second game with Jeremy making his 2009 debut.
In the opener, Armando pitched well enough to win and got a quality start out of the game, but not a win. Joel blew another save but got the win. That was the second straight game Joel gave up a late lead but got a win anyway. Gotta love baseball!
Brandon had a big hit to drive in the winning run in the top of the ninth. Fernando gave up a hit, but nothing further in the bottom of the ninth for the save. Good all around performance by the team.
In the nightcap, Jeremy was not good enough. His fastball was consistantly 89 on the radar gun and his changeup was at 81. This is not going to cut it. If your fastball is only at 89 or 90, your change or slider must be better than it was. He threw a few good sliders but not enough to keep the hitters honest. They were just waiting for the slow fastball and hitting it around. I was not very encouraged.
Jose Contreras was outstanding for the White Sox - he only gave up 1 hit and zero runs through 8 complete innings. Marcus hit a long HR in the ninth for the Tigers only run.
A split of a double header is nothing to sneeze at, especially the way the White Sox usually beat up on our Tigers in Chicago.
Tigers split an old fashioned day-night double header on Monday in Chicago. They won the first game with Armando pitching and lost the second game with Jeremy making his 2009 debut.
In the opener, Armando pitched well enough to win and got a quality start out of the game, but not a win. Joel blew another save but got the win. That was the second straight game Joel gave up a late lead but got a win anyway. Gotta love baseball!
Brandon had a big hit to drive in the winning run in the top of the ninth. Fernando gave up a hit, but nothing further in the bottom of the ninth for the save. Good all around performance by the team.
In the nightcap, Jeremy was not good enough. His fastball was consistantly 89 on the radar gun and his changeup was at 81. This is not going to cut it. If your fastball is only at 89 or 90, your change or slider must be better than it was. He threw a few good sliders but not enough to keep the hitters honest. They were just waiting for the slow fastball and hitting it around. I was not very encouraged.
Jose Contreras was outstanding for the White Sox - he only gave up 1 hit and zero runs through 8 complete innings. Marcus hit a long HR in the ninth for the Tigers only run.
A split of a double header is nothing to sneeze at, especially the way the White Sox usually beat up on our Tigers in Chicago.
Sunday, June 7, 2009
Game 55: Record 30-25
Clete's granny wins it
Not his grandmother, but rather his Grand Slam in the bottom of the 8th inning that turned a 5-5 tied into a 9-5 lead and eventually a 9-6 win. Tigers trailed 5-4 entering the bottom of the 8th but they scored 5 and got the win as well as the series win.
Rick Porcello pitched well enough to win, but Ryan Perry allowed one of Rick's runners to score and tie the game. Joel pitched nicely and got the win to show for it.
I love it when I do not have to discuss defense! Another solid performance, including Ryan Raburn playing 1B after Miguel had to come out of the game because of that troublesome hammy. Very nice win.
They now play 5 in 4 days against the White Sox. Day-night double header tomorrow and we get to see Jeremy Bonderman pitch for the first time. Armando and Jeremy pitch the double header tomorrow. They basically have 6 starters now. Seems like Jeremy, Armando or Dontrelle will not be able to stay in the rotation and these 5 games in Chicago will determine who stays and who doesn't.
Not his grandmother, but rather his Grand Slam in the bottom of the 8th inning that turned a 5-5 tied into a 9-5 lead and eventually a 9-6 win. Tigers trailed 5-4 entering the bottom of the 8th but they scored 5 and got the win as well as the series win.
Rick Porcello pitched well enough to win, but Ryan Perry allowed one of Rick's runners to score and tie the game. Joel pitched nicely and got the win to show for it.
I love it when I do not have to discuss defense! Another solid performance, including Ryan Raburn playing 1B after Miguel had to come out of the game because of that troublesome hammy. Very nice win.
They now play 5 in 4 days against the White Sox. Day-night double header tomorrow and we get to see Jeremy Bonderman pitch for the first time. Armando and Jeremy pitch the double header tomorrow. They basically have 6 starters now. Seems like Jeremy, Armando or Dontrelle will not be able to stay in the rotation and these 5 games in Chicago will determine who stays and who doesn't.
Game 54: Record 29-25
Jackson simply sensational again.
Edwin was just masterful, unbelievable, dominant. Running out of adjectives. Best of all, he was able to pitch a complete game and get a 2-1 win to snap a 4 game loosing streak. Not giving the ball to the bullpen was HUGE and that happened because he controlled his pitch count - got some quick innings and only required 109 pitches for 9 full innings. Plus, he struck out the side in the ninth!!! Remarkable.
For those with short memories, we traded Matt Joyce for this guy. Joyce has been back and forth between AAA and the Rays. So far...this has been a steal.
Rick Porcello tries to get a huge series win on Sunday.
Edwin was just masterful, unbelievable, dominant. Running out of adjectives. Best of all, he was able to pitch a complete game and get a 2-1 win to snap a 4 game loosing streak. Not giving the ball to the bullpen was HUGE and that happened because he controlled his pitch count - got some quick innings and only required 109 pitches for 9 full innings. Plus, he struck out the side in the ninth!!! Remarkable.
For those with short memories, we traded Matt Joyce for this guy. Joyce has been back and forth between AAA and the Rays. So far...this has been a steal.
Rick Porcello tries to get a huge series win on Sunday.
Saturday, June 6, 2009
Game 53: Record 28-25
Verlander outstanding, Santana better, Rodney...not so much.
Tigers lost their 4th straight game! This time to the Angels in a classic pitchers duel. Justin Verlander was off-the-charts awesome again. Ervin Santana for the Angels was a little more efficient with his pitches, which enabled him to come out in the ninth and that was the difference. The numbers:
Verlander: 8.0 IP, 4 H, 0 ER, 4 BB, 7 SO
Santana: 8.2 IP, 6 H, 1 ER, 2 BB, 7 SO
Santana gave up the 1 run in the 9th. Justin could not come out in the ninth because he had thrown 119 pitches through 8 innings. Fernando Rodney pitched the ninth in a scoreless game and promptly surrendered 3 straight singles to allow the Angels to take a 1-0 lead. Then came a sacrafice, intentional walk and another run scored on a ground out to SS. 2-0 Angels after the top of the ninth.
Again (as with the Boston series), the Tigers had chances in the bottom of the 9th. Josh Anderson hit a long triple, Miguel had a pinch-hit walk and Magglio drove in the lone run with a single. Winning runs on base and Curtis at the plate and he fouls out. Ugh.
Edwin on the hill today against Kelvim Escobar, who from what I can tell has not pitched in the majors this year. He was supposedly 'knocked around a little bit' in his triple-A rehab start.
Tigers lost their 4th straight game! This time to the Angels in a classic pitchers duel. Justin Verlander was off-the-charts awesome again. Ervin Santana for the Angels was a little more efficient with his pitches, which enabled him to come out in the ninth and that was the difference. The numbers:
Verlander: 8.0 IP, 4 H, 0 ER, 4 BB, 7 SO
Santana: 8.2 IP, 6 H, 1 ER, 2 BB, 7 SO
Santana gave up the 1 run in the 9th. Justin could not come out in the ninth because he had thrown 119 pitches through 8 innings. Fernando Rodney pitched the ninth in a scoreless game and promptly surrendered 3 straight singles to allow the Angels to take a 1-0 lead. Then came a sacrafice, intentional walk and another run scored on a ground out to SS. 2-0 Angels after the top of the ninth.
Again (as with the Boston series), the Tigers had chances in the bottom of the 9th. Josh Anderson hit a long triple, Miguel had a pinch-hit walk and Magglio drove in the lone run with a single. Winning runs on base and Curtis at the plate and he fouls out. Ugh.
Edwin on the hill today against Kelvim Escobar, who from what I can tell has not pitched in the majors this year. He was supposedly 'knocked around a little bit' in his triple-A rehab start.
Friday, June 5, 2009
Game 52: Record 28-24
Dontrelle version 2009 meet Dontrelle version 2008
This is the worst case scenario for Tigers fans regarding Dontrelle Willis. D-train did not give up a hit in the game, but still only lasted 2.1 innings. In the 3rd inning he hit a batter and then walked 4 straight guys. His line looked like something from last year.
2.1 IP, 0 H, 5 ER, 5 BB, 3 SO.
In previous games this year when he would walk a guy he could come back and throw strikes, in this game he seemed to have lost something with his control and could not get it back.
They still had plenty of opportunities to win the game on offense because the bullpen did not allow a run after the horrible 6 run 3rd inning. But, they did not break through. This series did not set up well for the Tigers because neither Justin nor Edwin were pitching. After Porcello lost the opener, I was fearing a sweep and that is what happened.
The Angels come to town for 3 over the weekend and we have Justin, Edwin and Rick pitching. The Angels always seem to play well against the Tigers, but I like our chances with those three pitching. Then after that, they play five in four days against the White Sox. Not sure how the rotation will work for that Chicago series. Seems like they need an extra starter. Not sure if they'll bring up somebody or give Nate/Zach a start. We'll see.
This is the worst case scenario for Tigers fans regarding Dontrelle Willis. D-train did not give up a hit in the game, but still only lasted 2.1 innings. In the 3rd inning he hit a batter and then walked 4 straight guys. His line looked like something from last year.
2.1 IP, 0 H, 5 ER, 5 BB, 3 SO.
In previous games this year when he would walk a guy he could come back and throw strikes, in this game he seemed to have lost something with his control and could not get it back.
They still had plenty of opportunities to win the game on offense because the bullpen did not allow a run after the horrible 6 run 3rd inning. But, they did not break through. This series did not set up well for the Tigers because neither Justin nor Edwin were pitching. After Porcello lost the opener, I was fearing a sweep and that is what happened.
The Angels come to town for 3 over the weekend and we have Justin, Edwin and Rick pitching. The Angels always seem to play well against the Tigers, but I like our chances with those three pitching. Then after that, they play five in four days against the White Sox. Not sure how the rotation will work for that Chicago series. Seems like they need an extra starter. Not sure if they'll bring up somebody or give Nate/Zach a start. We'll see.
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
Game 51: Record 28-23
Beckett did not need help from Papelbon or really anybody else.
Tigers absolutely dominated by Josh Beckett. They did not get a hit until the 7th inning and did not score until 8th when they trailed 10-0.
Good news is that the Tigers battled until the end. They scored 5 runs in the 8th and left the bases loaded in the 9th. Had Josh Anderson been able to scratch out a hit or walk, it would have brought up the potential tying run in the form of Miguel Cabrera. Too bad it didn't happen.
Beckett's line is: 7.2 IP, 2 H, 3 R, 0 ER, 2 BB, 9 SO.
Very impressive.
Tigers absolutely dominated by Josh Beckett. They did not get a hit until the 7th inning and did not score until 8th when they trailed 10-0.
Good news is that the Tigers battled until the end. They scored 5 runs in the 8th and left the bases loaded in the 9th. Had Josh Anderson been able to scratch out a hit or walk, it would have brought up the potential tying run in the form of Miguel Cabrera. Too bad it didn't happen.
Beckett's line is: 7.2 IP, 2 H, 3 R, 0 ER, 2 BB, 9 SO.
Very impressive.
Game 50: Record 28-22
Da Sawx too much for Porcello and team.
Rick Porcello pitched OK, but not good enough. Dice-K pitched better than OK, but not great. He always seems to "just barely" keep the Tigers down when he pitches against them. The Tigers always seem to be on the brink of breaking him down and getting him out of the game, but they never seem to do it.
Then Papelbon comes in for a non-save situation in the 9th and gives up 3 straight singles. So, the Tigs have the bases loaded in the bottom of the 9th with no outs and a 5-1 deficit. Then Josh Anderson struck out for out #1. Then Jeff Larish pinch hit for Gerarld Laird...and he struck out for out #2. Finally, Ramon Santiago struck out to end the game. Pathetic ending to a promising inning. The only bright spot is that Pap had to throw 35 pitches, so he may not be available tonight if they need him.
No offensive stars as they only could muster one single run.
Now they have the two weakest guys in the rotation going the next two nights - Armando and Dontrelle. Here's hoping we do not get swept.
Rick Porcello pitched OK, but not good enough. Dice-K pitched better than OK, but not great. He always seems to "just barely" keep the Tigers down when he pitches against them. The Tigers always seem to be on the brink of breaking him down and getting him out of the game, but they never seem to do it.
Then Papelbon comes in for a non-save situation in the 9th and gives up 3 straight singles. So, the Tigs have the bases loaded in the bottom of the 9th with no outs and a 5-1 deficit. Then Josh Anderson struck out for out #1. Then Jeff Larish pinch hit for Gerarld Laird...and he struck out for out #2. Finally, Ramon Santiago struck out to end the game. Pathetic ending to a promising inning. The only bright spot is that Pap had to throw 35 pitches, so he may not be available tonight if they need him.
No offensive stars as they only could muster one single run.
Now they have the two weakest guys in the rotation going the next two nights - Armando and Dontrelle. Here's hoping we do not get swept.
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