Today's game

All that matters in today's exhibition game is Verlander v Sabathia. The Tigers lineup is a shell of what it will be during the season with all of the players in the WBC. However, Justin is on the mound, therefore I am interested. Plus, CC is on the other side.

I expect Sabathia to have a 'back down to earth' kind of a season. He is back in the AL and he will get hit around some, but will also be successful sometimes. He was unworldly last year with the Brewers and it was fun for all to see (except other NL Central fans). He will not be that guy again in 2009 against AL hitting and with a fat contract already in his back pocket. He is a Yankee now...he will not live up to expectations.

Update: Verlander gave up 2 hits and 2 earned runs in the top of the first. Not a good start.
Update 2: Verlander's final line: 2 IP, 3 H, 4 R, 2 ER.
Update 3: Sheffield goes deep and the Tigers take a 6-4 lead.
Update 4: Sheffield goes deep AGAIN. Is this a good sign or a tease? Can he do it in a cold Michigan April?
Update 5: Final is Tigers 7, Yankees 4

Sheffield hits 2 HR and has 3 RBI
Polanco has 1 RBI without a hit

The other thing that sticks out at me from the box score is Rodney's line.

1 IP, 2 H, 1 BB, 0 R

Without seeing him pitch, it is hard to know how much he struggled but 2 hits and 1 walk is not good for him. I want to see his BB count at ZERO. I hate it when late relievers come in and walk guys. HATE IT.