2013 A.L. Central Thread

[AshevilleApp2]

Okay you other two Central fans, lets get this thing rolling. :)

Detroit Tigers

Offense-Should be improved somewhat over last season. One through five batters can compete with nearly any other team. (Austin Jackson, Torii Hunter, Miguel Cabrera, Prince Fielder and Victor Martinez). Hopefully Alex Avila and Jhonny Peralta can bounce back with improved seasons from last year. Andy Dirks has shown some promise in past seasons and Omar Infante is fairly solid.

Defense- Should be improved from last year, but still a liability. Outfield defense should be fine with Jackson and Hunter in center and right field respectively. Right now Andy Dirks looks like the starter in left, and he's a defensive upgrade over Delmon Young.

Infield defense will be a liability, but may be somewhat improved from last season. Mostly due to Omar Infante taking over from the committee at second base. Peralta at short doesn't make many errors, but has limited range. Fielder at first and Cabrera at third aren't going to win any golden gloves. Avila is a pretty solid catcher.

Starting Pitching- Should be one of the best staffs in the majors. Verlander, Fister, Scherzer, Sanchez and either Porcello or Smiley are all solid starters.

Relief Pitching-Scary. I think this area will be the team's greatest weakness. They have no established closer, and older set up men in Benoit and Dotel. Will they still be good this year or just old? Villareal and Albuquerque show a lot of potential, but have had injury issues in the past. Phil Coke should be a solid left handed relief option.

[Laker]

I'm not very optimistic about the Twins this year. I don't think that they have improved enough to move up the ladder and compete.

[darell1976]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FFrl4U4eIJU


The year of the TRIBE!!!!!

[AshevilleApp2]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FFrl4U4eIJU


The year of the TRIBE!!!!!


They should be better, but I'm thinking (hoping) not good enough to catch the Tigers. Wild Card maybe?

[Gil Dobie]

Going to see the Tigers play in Lakeland on the 19th. AshvilleApp is pretty much right on in his analysis. I think Smyly might take the 5th starting spot.

[darell1976]

They should be better, but I'm thinking (hoping) not good enough to catch the Tigers. Wild Card maybe?

They are hitting the ball a lot better so far in spring training, and with Swisher, manager Terry Francona and the release of injury prone Travis Hafner this team has a bright future. The Central will be a good race.

[AshevilleApp2]

They are hitting the ball a lot better so far in spring training, and with Swisher, manager Terry Francona and the release of injury prone Travis Hafner this team has a bright future. The Central will be a good race.

It very well could be. Detroit was the heavy favorite last year and needed a lot of help from the White Sox just to make the playoffs. This year Cleveland and Kansas City look to be in the mix as well. Looking forward to the season. xnodx

[darell1976]

It very well could be. Detroit was the heavy favorite last year and needed a lot of help from the White Sox just to make the playoffs. This year Cleveland and Kansas City look to be in the mix as well. Looking forward to the season. xnodx

Cleveland starts the year 3 at Toronto and 3 at Tampa Bay before hosting the Yankees, White Sox and Red Sox. If Cleveland can get through these teams it looks very promising this year for the Tribe.

[Gil Dobie]

Cleveland starts the year 3 at Toronto and 3 at Tampa Bay before hosting the Yankees, White Sox and Red Sox. If Cleveland can get through these teams it looks very promising this year for the Tribe.

Toronto has made a big step towards trying to win this year.

[Gil Dobie]

Twins Centerfield hopeful Aaron Hicks hits 3 dingers in Spring ball yesterday. After trading Span and Revere, the Twins are looking at Hicks, Benson or Mastroianni to take the CF spot.

[Gil Dobie]

Found a 1984 Mitchell & Ness Alan Trammell jersey for Spring Training next week.

[Gil Dobie]

Found a Majestic Cool Base Prince Fielder road jersey for my wife to wear.

[bodoyle]

I think after the damn Tigers (lucky last year) it's wide open. I have no expectations for my White Sox.

[AshevilleApp2]

I think after the damn Tigers (lucky last year) it's wide open. I have no expectations for my White Sox.

Lucky is right. Thanks! :D

[bodoyle]

I was as surprised as anyone that the Sox were leading that late in the season. I just hope we can make the post season - most likely as a wild card this year.

[AshevilleApp2]

I was as surprised as anyone that the Sox were leading that late in the season. I just hope we can make the post season - most likely as a wild card this year.

I think you have a legitimate shot, even though the competition will be tough. And I'm not assuming the Tigers will win, although if I had to bet I'd take them.

I'm glad that we have a White Sox fan to contribute this season. Now we need a Royals rooter.

[AshevilleApp2]

Tigers released Brennan Boesch yesterday. I was hoping that they would be able to at least get a decent prospect for him. He's got potential and should find a job somewhere quickly.

[Gil Dobie]

Tigers released Brennan Boesch yesterday. I was hoping that they would be able to at least get a decent prospect for him. He's got potential and should find a job somewhere quickly.

He shouldn't be out of a job for long. Best of luck to Brennan.

[Gil Dobie]

Fister did not look real sharp against the Rays. Prince Fielder was bad on defense. Like Torii Hunter in right with his glove and Dirks is fine in Left. Lots of talk of Bruce Rondon and his 100mph fastball with a 88mph breaking ball.

[bodoyle]

Who did the Tigers name as their #5 starter? Can't remember his name, but I think I heard he was 10-12 last year? Thought they had more pitching depth than that?

[Laker]

I have no realistic hopes for my Twins this year. I know that in the spring I should be optimistic but I'm not getting that feeling, especially with all of the snow still on the ground.

[AshevilleApp2]

I have no realistic hopes for my Twins this year. I know that in the spring I should be optimistic but I'm not getting that feeling, especially with all of the snow still on the ground.

Does the new Twins stadium have a retractable roof? If not, I can't understand why the first series of the year will be in Minneapolis.

[AshevilleApp2]

Tigers name Porcello as the fifth starter, with Smyly moving to the bullpen. I thought Smyly would get the spot at the beginning of Spring Training, being that the team could use a left handed starter. But Porcello has had a great spring.

[Gil Dobie]

Does the new Twins stadium have a retractable roof? If not, I can't understand why the first series of the year will be in Minneapolis.

No roof, and that's crazy. Just watched the Tigers in 88 degrees in Florida, now the 40's would be a warm game on the 1st. :(

Twinkies have not announced their opening day pitcher yet.

[Gil Dobie]

I have no realistic hopes for my Twins this year. I know that in the spring I should be optimistic but I'm not getting that feeling, especially with all of the snow still on the ground.

I think they will be better than most expect, closing in on .500. Pitching still needs to be sorted out from what I am hearing on the radio.

[bodoyle]

How much could they get for Mauer now? If they could get some prospects and start over, it might be worth it.

[darell1976]

I am already planning a trip to Target Field. I went with the family in 2010 and saw the Indians win, so I hope in July I can be there again. Target Field beats the dome in everything. Even if it was a little cold or too hot, outdoor baseball is where its at. I can't wait to see a game at the new Vikings Stadium when that opens. The Metrodome was good in its days (my greatest game was to see Cal Ripkin Jr. and Kirby Puckett play in the same game), but now that time is gone, even domed football isn't the same as outdoors.

[gotts]

No roof, and that's crazy. Just watched the Tigers in 88 degrees in Florida, now the 40's would be a warm game on the 1st. :(

Twinkies have not announced their opening day pitcher yet.

Vance Worley, ugh...

[gotts]

No roof, and that's crazy. Just watched the Tigers in 88 degrees in Florida, now the 40's would be a warm game on the 1st. :(

Twinkies have not announced their opening day pitcher yet.

Vance Worley, ugh...

[Gil Dobie]

Vance Worley, ugh...

34 degrees for the high, 20 degree windchill in the forecast, ugh, ugh....

[Gil Dobie]

How much could they get for Mauer now? If they could get some prospects and start over, it might be worth it.

Mauer's huge salary would make it difficult for the Twins to trade him. The projected salary for the Twins is $76 million, Mauer and Morneau are half that.

[Hammerhead]

Target field does have a heating system under the playing surface.
http://minnesota.twins.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20090825&content_id=6609106&vkey=news_min&c_id=min

[Gil Dobie]

Target field does have a heating system under the playing surface.
http://minnesota.twins.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20090825&content_id=6609106&vkey=news_min&c_id=min

Can I sit on the playing surface to warm up after 6 innings ;)

[Gil Dobie]

Verlander signs a 7 year deal worth $180, with Tigers. :)

[AshevilleApp2]

Verlander signs a 7 year deal worth $180, with Tigers. :)

:)

[darell1976]

Indians open the season tomorrow at Toronto.

[Gil Dobie]

Weather is warmer than predicted in Minnesota, might reach 36 degrees with lighter winds than predicted. Hope Verlander can throws some stingers to the Twins hitters today.

[Gil Dobie]

Today's ESPN preview for the Tigers/Twins game


MINNEAPOLIS (AP) -- Batter up? More like bundle up.


The Detroit Tigers open the season on Monday in frosty Minnesota, where forecasts call for temperature in the low 30s at game time at outdoor Target Field. The wind chill is expected to be around 20 degrees. So the Tigers will need all the heat they can get from Justin Verlander's 100 mph fastballs.

"It's going to be cold but I've pitched in that kind of weather before," Verlander said. "I don't think about it. It's always cold in Detroit on opening day."

But this cold? If the forecast holds true, it has the potential to be the coldest opening day on record in Minnesota, dating to 1961. The coldest was 33 degrees in 1963. There was plenty of debate when the Twins were designing a new stadium about building one with a roof to shield them from the elements. The first three seasons in Target Field have been mostly beautiful, with few rainouts and generally warm weather once the season began.

Major League Baseball put the Twins on the road to start each of the first three seasons at Target Field, a seven-game trip in 2010, a six-game trip in 2011 and a three-gamer last year. Maybe after seeing all the warm weather the last few years, MLB's schedule makers decide to tempt fate because this is the first time the Twins will open the season at home.

"No one likes playing in the cold," Twins second baseman Brian Dozier said. "But at the same time, we're going to be playing opening day in a Major League Baseball game. Isn't that enough?"

Verlander will get the ball for the Tigers against Vance Worley, who came to the Twins in a trade with Philadelphia this offseason. Verlander certainly will have the money to buy himself a nice warm coat for the trip. He agreed to a $180 million, seven-year deal with the Tigers on Friday, the richest given to a pitcher.

"I think it is a great situation for him," Tigers manager Jim Leyland said. "It's good for him, it's good for the organization, and it's good for the fans."

As crazy as it sounds, the guy who is widely considered the best pitcher in the American League might be entering this season with redemption on his mind. After winning the 2011 AL MVP and AL Cy Young Award following a stellar regular season that has become almost typical, Verlander gave up five runs in four innings of his only start in the World Series, a Game 1 loss to the San Francisco Giants. The flat performance from their ace seemed to stun the Tigers, who fell to the Giants in a sweep.

Detroit added veteran outfielder, and former Twins fan favorite, Torii Hunter in the offseason to add even more punch to an offense that already is loaded with Prince Fielder, Miguel Cabrera and Victor Martinez, who returns after spending last season on the disabled list. The expectations are there once again for another deep run.

"We are going to hit, don't get me wrong," Leyland said. "This team is going to hit. When you have speed at the top of the lineup then guys like Hunter, Cabrera, Prince, Martinez, these guys are going to score runs. I like our pitching and I am satisfied with everything we have going for us."

Twins manager Ron Gardenhire wishes he could say the same. The Twins have lost more than 90 games in each of the past two seasons, with fans growing impatient about a perceived lack of investment from ownership while they play in their revenue-generating new ballpark. They have been searching for an ace for years, and there doesn't appear to be one ready to help them anytime soon.

Worley is getting the start almost by default. He was 0-1 with a 5.73 ERA in six spring training appearances, but Scott Diamond and Samuel Deduno aren't healthy enough to start the season with the big club and the rest of the rotation was underwhelming this spring as well.

"We hope to get back to where we were a couple of years ago, winning the division," All Star catcher Joe Mauer said. "We're looking forward to it."

----

AP freelance writers David Dorsey in Fort Myers, Fla., and Jeff Berlinicke in Lakeland, Fla., contributed to this report.

[Laker]

Tigers scored two runs in the top of the first. At least Mauer, batting second, broke up Verlander's perfect game by reaching on an error. xcoolx

[Gil Dobie]

The Vanimal (Vance Worley) is having a tough day, Tigers up 3-0 after 1.5 innings.

[AshevilleApp2]

Good start to the season.

[Gil Dobie]

Good start to the season.

Smyly was a little shakey, but he's young and hopefully gets better.

[AshevilleApp2]

There goes the unbeaten season. xnonono2x

[darell1976]

Indians 2-0!!!! But fast starts are nothing new for Cleveland...its the middle of the season that the Indians forget they need to win.

[Gil Dobie]

There goes the unbeaten season. xnonono2x

Team weakness was exposed, the Bullpen :(

[gotts]

Tigers bullpen really showing what they're made of today.

[Laker]

Twins win 8-2 and are above the .500 mark for the first time in two years according the announcers. If they were, it couldn't have been for long. But enjoy it while it lasts! Two wins in a row.

[NoDak 4 Ever]

Twins above .500 after almost 2 1/2 years.

[NoDak 4 Ever]

Twins win 8-2 and are above the .500 mark for the first time in two years according the announcers. If they were, it couldn't have been for long. But enjoy it while it lasts! Two wins in a row.

They finished the 2010 season above .500 that was the last time.

[AshevilleApp2]

I guess my bullpen concerns were right. xnodx

Tigers signed Valverde to a minor league contract. Not the answer I was hoping for.

[darell1976]

Cleveland lost 10-8 to Toronto to take 2 out of 3 from the Blue Jays. Now Cleveland starts a weekend series at Tampa Bay.

[BluBengal07]

here in my office in Detroit and no one is here. today is Tigers' opening day with the game at 1:08pm against the Yankees.

[AshevilleApp2]

here in my office in Detroit and no one is here. today is Tigers' opening day with the game at 1:08pm against the Yankees.

I'll be cutting out early to catch it on the tube.

[NoDak 4 Ever]

Not getting too happy yet but 2 series won against 2012 playoff teams and my Twins are tied for 1st in the AL Central.

[Laker]

Not getting too happy yet but 2 series won against 2012 playoff teams and my Twins are tied for 1st in the AL Central.

xthumbsupx Yes, they are doing better than I thought- I hope that they can stay in contention!

[darell1976]

Indians spank the Rays 13-0!!!

[AshevilleApp2]

Tigers take 2 of 3 from the Yankees over the weekend.

[Gil Dobie]

Torii Hunter is proving his value so far, and Miggy had a big game yesterday with a dinger and 4 RBI.

[AshevilleApp2]

Another blown lead (6-1) and loss for the Tigers.

[Laker]

Twins get swept at Kansas City. Just couldn't score runs again. Grrrr.

[Gil Dobie]

Winter storm in Minnesota today, will the Twins play tomorrow?

[Gil Dobie]

Another blown lead (6-1) and loss for the Tigers.

Help Wanted -------- Bullpen

[darell1976]

Indians-Yanks rained out...good thing to, it gives Cleveland a chance to figure out what the hell the problem is.

[Gil Dobie]

Lot better today with the Tigers 11-1 win over the Jays.

[AshevilleApp2]

Lot better today with the Tigers 11-1 win over the Jays.

You know it's a good day when Cabrera has a triple and a stolen base. xnodx

Tough road trip starting today. Oakland, Seattle and the Angels.

[Gil Dobie]

You know it's a good day when Cabrera has a triple and a stolen base. xnodx

Tough road trip starting today. Oakland, Seattle and the Angels.

...should be more comfortable climate after 35 degrees yesterday in Detroit.

[Laker]

Winter storm in Minnesota today, will the Twins play tomorrow?

My wrestling coach buddy called last night with a free ticket. I've been out with bronchitis the last two weeks and haven't been able to shake it off so I declined. Probably about six inches of snow on the ground here.

[Gil Dobie]

Bullpen gives up the winning run again :(

[NoDak 4 Ever]

Well at least the Twins gave me a week before they went tits up.

[AshevilleApp2]

Winter storm in Minnesota today, will the Twins play tomorrow?

Bud Grant would approve.

[AshevilleApp2]

Tigers bounce back from a tough loss Friday night and take the last two games of the series in Oakland!

[Gil Dobie]

Bud Grant would approve.

Sunday's game was cancelled, glad the powers-that-be decided on no retractible roof for the new stadium. xintx

At the sports memorabilia show on Saturday, it took a guy with field level tickets for Saturday, an hour to sell a group of 4 of $35, way below face for 1 ticket.

[Gil Dobie]

Talk of cancelling tomorrow Twins game due to snow in the forecast.

[Laker]

Talk of cancelling tomorrow Twins game due to snow in the forecast.

I saw a Terragator drive down the gravel road a few minutes ago- not sure why. No one can get into the fields around here, they still have snow on them.

[Gil Dobie]

I saw a Terragator drive down the gravel road a few minutes ago- not sure why. No one can get into the fields around here, they still have snow on them.

The Ice is usually off the lake by now, and usually thinking of when to put the dock in. Still frozen solid, snow in the forecast too.

[AshevilleApp2]

Scherzer against King Felix tonight in Seattle. Should be a good match up.

[darell1976]

Indians got thumped by the Red Sox 7-2 last night.

Standings:

Detroit 8-5
KC 7-6
Minn 6-7
Chi 6-8
Cle 5-7

[PaladinFan]

Watched KC past two days against Atlanta. They'll be pretty tough if their starting pitching performs like it did two nights in Atlanta.

[AshevilleApp2]

Watched KC past two days against Atlanta. They'll be pretty tough if their starting pitching performs like it did two nights in Atlanta.

Agree. They scare me with their youth and talent. One of these years, they'll put it all together.

[AshevilleApp2]

Scherzer against King Felix tonight in Seattle. Should be a good match up.


To put it mildly.

Both pitchers went 8 innings and each let up one run. (Earned run for Scherzer, unearned run for Hernandez.) Twelve strikeouts each in a forty total strike out game. Tigers win in 14 after Justin Smoak gets thrown out at the plate trying to score from first on a double to right field. xthumbsupx

[AshevilleApp2]

Sweepless in Seattle. :(


Verlander gets his second loss. Both losses where the Tigers were shut out.

[AshevilleApp2]

Ouch!

[Gil Dobie]

Due to the show yesterday, Minnesota will play 2 with Miami today as the snow melts.

Leave it to MLB to schedule Miami in Minnesota in April and Minnesota in Miami in June.

[AshevilleApp2]

Tigers call up Jose Valverde and name him as the closer. xrotatehx

[Gil Dobie]

Tigers call up Jose Valverde and name him as the closer. xrotatehx

Need someone, as bad as he was in the post-season, he helped get the Tigers to the post-season.

[AshevilleApp2]

Need someone, as bad as he was in the post-season, he helped get the Tigers to the post-season.

Valverde got the save last night, but it was an adventure. The Royals nailed the ball, but fortunately right at the defense. I'll take it.

[AshevilleApp2]

In a now recurring theme, the bullpen lost a lead and the Tigers lost in 10.

[Gil Dobie]

In a now recurring theme, the bullpen lost a lead and the Tigers lost in 10.

Very glaring weakness after the first few weeks.

[Gil Dobie]

Sanchez 17 K's as Tigers route Braves. Big news is bullpen gives up ZERO runs, good job Rondon. :)

[Gil Dobie]

Tiger #5 beats the Braves, Papa Grande 2 K's in the 9th.

[AshevilleApp2]

Good weekend for the Tigers. xnodx Twins as well. This could be an interesting series starting tonight. Scherzer, Verlander and Sanchez projected starters for the Tigers. We'll see about Verlander's blister.

[PaladinFan]

Good weekend for the Tigers. xnodx Twins as well. This could be an interesting series starting tonight. Scherzer, Verlander and Sanchez projected starters for the Tigers. We'll see about Verlander's blister.

Bizzare scheduling. Atlanta has been on the road for 16 of the last 18, and the only home series was a two game mid-week series in the middle of the long road trip. The second half of the trip was all cold-weather cities in April, mixed with miserable weather, snow, rain, off days, double headers, etc. Made me tired, and I'm just a fan.

Oddly enough, I went back and looked, for some reason it does not appear as though Detroit makes the return trip to Atlanta. The Braves host every other Al Central team, but not the Tigers (unless I overlooked it).

[AshevilleApp2]

Bizzare scheduling. Atlanta has been on the road for 16 of the last 18, and the only home series was a two game mid-week series in the middle of the long road trip. The second half of the trip was all cold-weather cities in April, mixed with miserable weather, snow, rain, off days, double headers, etc. Made me tired, and I'm just a fan.

Oddly enough, I went back and looked, for some reason it does not appear as though Detroit makes the return trip to Atlanta. The Braves host every other Al Central team, but not the Tigers (unless I overlooked it).


You didn't overlook the schedule, as I was hoping to go to Atlanta and see the two teams play.

Fortunate for the Tigers to catch Atlanta when they did.

[PaladinFan]

You didn't overlook the schedule, as I was hoping to go to Atlanta and see the two teams play.

Fortunate for the Tigers to catch Atlanta when they did.

The World Series, then.

[AshevilleApp2]

The World Series, then.

Never hurts to think big!

[Gil Dobie]

Princely night in Detroit :)

[AshevilleApp2]

Princely night in Detroit :)

Indeed. Dirks got his first homerun of the year as well. It's good to see more production coming from the bottom of the order over the past several games.

[Gil Dobie]

Verlander, Fielder and Cabrera make for a nice Minnesota evening.

[Gil Dobie]

Looked good yesterday when Sanchez K'd the first 2 Twins, but it was downhill after that as the Twins won.

[NoDak 4 Ever]

Twins start series at Cleveland. Good to have them on TV here but Rick Manning makes me want to stick a screwdriver in my ear.

[Gil Dobie]

AFter this weekend, I know why the National League got rid of Houston :(

[AshevilleApp2]

AFter this weekend, I know why the National League got rid of Houston :(

Personally I'd have rather gotten Milwaukee back in the American League, but I'm happy to take the wins. The Astros actually gave the Tigers problems Thursday and Friday.

Tough series in Washington starting tomorrow. V-Mart will sit unless he's used as a pinch hitter.

[Laker]

Personally I'd have rather gotten Milwaukee back in the American League.

Agreed. I loved going to Twins-Brewers games, both at home and on the road.

[darell1976]

Standings:

Detroit 19-11
KC 17-10 .5 GB
Indians 14-14 4 GB
Minn 13-14 4.5 GB
Sox 12-17 6.5 GB

[AshevilleApp2]

Standings:

Detroit 19-11
KC 17-10 .5 GB
Indians 14-14 4 GB
Minn 13-14 4.5 GB
Sox 12-17 6.5 GB


I've been very impressed with the Royals this year, and Cleveland has been playing well lately. We may have two teams from the Central making the playoffs this year.

[darell1976]

I've been very impressed with the Royals this year, and Cleveland has been playing well lately. We may have two teams from the Central making the playoffs this year.

As long as Cleveland doesn't collapse in the second half of the season like in past years, as for KC they have really been impressive. But I think its almost a shock to see the White Sox that fall into the cellar. (good place for them)

[Gil Dobie]

Bud Selig does not want the Brewski's in the American League. :(

[AshevilleApp2]

Tigers get beat by an excellent pitcher last night. Hopefully they can rebound tonight. I think Porcello will get the start. If so, it will be interesting to see which Rick shows up.

Cleveland wins yet again to move within two games.

[Gil Dobie]

4 teams in the Central at .500 or better :)

[darell1976]

Cleveland going for win 10 out of their last 11. Up 5-0 early against Oakland.

[Gil Dobie]

Cleveland going for win 10 out of their last 11. Up 5-0 early against Oakland.

The red-hot Indians get the division leading Tigers for a weekend series. Early battle between the leaders.

[darell1976]

The red-hot Indians get the division leading Tigers for a weekend series. Early battle between the leaders.

Detroit's pitching staff is going to get a workout against the bats of Cleveland. First place on the line.

Detroit 19-13 (-)
KC 18-13 (.5)
Cle 18-14 (1)
Minn 16-15 (2.5)
Chi 14-18 (5)

[Gil Dobie]

Another big night by Miggy. Already with 40 RBI. Tiger win 10-4, Scherzer improves to 5-0.

[AshevilleApp2]

Cleveland takes 2 of 3. Verlander has uncharacteristically poor start on Saturday. Bullpen struggles continue for Tigers.

[darell1976]

First place Indians!!

[Gil Dobie]

Indians were hot, hot, hot, and Papa Grande was not going to stop them.

[Gil Dobie]

Tigers back in first with win over Houston and Tribe splits with Yankees.

[Gil Dobie]

Tough outing for Verlander. Doesn't appear to pitch well in big games lately.

[bodoyle]

I saw the Sox beat LAA last night. Have not been able to follow them much - preoccupied with Blackhawks and Bulls - but the Chicago Tribune was painting a picture of a horrendous team, but I look at the standings and yea they're in last place, but only 4 games out of 1st.

[AshevilleApp2]

Cabrera goes 4 for 4, with 3 home runs and 5 rbi's and the Tigers lose. xsmhx

[AshevilleApp2]

Good outing by Scherzer and the Tigers get a win in Cleveland. The red hot Tribe leads by 1 1/2 games.

[darell1976]

Good outing by Scherzer and the Tigers get a win in Cleveland. The red hot Tribe leads by 1 1/2 games.

I think the Central will come down to these two teams.

Go Tribe!!

[IBleedYellow]

Just going to say this, I don't understand why I cheer for Minnesota teams...

I'm too used to cheering for WINNERS not losers. That state doesn't know how to win.

Nexus 4

[PaladinFan]

Just going to say this, I don't understand why I cheer for Minnesota teams...

I'm too used to cheering for WINNERS not losers. That state doesn't know how to win.

Nexus 4

No kidding, it's only a matter of time before teams stop pitching to Evan Gattis all together.

As a closer, you never want to put the tying run on first, but you have one of the most powerful men in the NL, who stands directly over the plate, just looking to hit a ball into next week. I'd say it was luck, but Gattis has done that to one team after another this season.

[Gil Dobie]

No kidding, it's only a matter of time before teams stop pitching to Evan Gattis all together.

As a closer, you never want to put the tying run on first, but you have one of the most powerful men in the NL, who stands directly over the plate, just looking to hit a ball into next week. I'd say it was luck, but Gattis has done that to one team after another this season.

Using the word "Pitch" to describe anything the Twins are attempting is debatable. ;)

[PaladinFan]

Using the word "Pitch" to describe anything the Twins are attempting is debatable. ;)

They don't have an army of talent, but there are worse options than Perkins and Duensing. Perkins hung a slider and Duensing had the misfortune of facing the teeth of the Braves order.

[IBleedYellow]

I stopped watching after it was 8-0 Atlanta. What happened? xbadx

PS: Call me a bandwagon fan and I'd call bull****. I still watch them all year, just don't have confidence in them. Same as the Wolves.

[PaladinFan]

I stopped watching after it was 8-0 Atlanta. What happened? xbadx

PS: Call me a bandwagon fan and I'd call bull****. I still watch them all year, just don't have confidence in them. Same as the Wolves.

My theory about not pitching to Gattis doesn't work when the bases are loaded.

Tough one to back a day game blowout next to a night game rainout/extra inning affair. Meant Worley had to go out and just take it on the chin today.

[AshevilleApp2]

Verlander struggles for the third straight start, but gets the win with a lot of help from Miggy (and Michael Bourn :D). I'll take it. xnodx

[Gil Dobie]

Nice comeback, but hey it's the Twinkies. Miggie ahead of the pace of last years Triple Crown totals.

[AshevilleApp2]

Tigers win combined with Indians loss puts the Bengals up 2.5 games again.

[darell1976]

Tigers win combined with Indians loss puts the Bengals up 2.5 games again.

Its going to be a back and forth race up to the all star break...then someone is going to pull ahead for good. (history is not on Cleveland's side for being the leader after the break in recent years)

[AshevilleApp2]

Tigers lose 1-0 in 11 innings.

On a positive note, Rick Porcello had his second straight strong start. In fact he probably had the best start of his career. Eight innings of shutout ball with 11 strikeouts.

[AshevilleApp2]

Tigers lose 1-0 in 11 innings.

On a positive note, Rick Porcello had his second straight strong start. In fact he probably had the best start of his career. Eight innings of shutout ball with 11 strikeouts.


Thought I had a flashback when I saw last nights score. xsmhx

Only this time it was Fister going seven scoreless innings with 12 strikeouts.

[AshevilleApp2]

Lost 2 of 3 in Baltimore. Tough one on Friday night, losing a 5-3 lead in the 9th.

[Gil Dobie]

Tigers win the matinee and series with Tampa :)

[AshevilleApp2]

Tigers take first two games from Cleveland. Resting Sanchez tomorrow (sore/stiff arm).

[AshevilleApp2]

Not related to the current Central, but Jeremy Bonderman (long time Tiger), got his first win since 2010 Friday night. Good for you Jeremy!

[AshevilleApp2]

Sweep!!

[darell1976]

Sweep!!

xmadx

[Gil Dobie]

Would be nice to see the Tigers pull away and clinch early. Enough of these September drives and a chance of a game 163 like a couple years ago.

[AshevilleApp2]

Would be nice to see the Tigers pull away and clinch early. Enough of these September drives and a chance of a game 163 like a couple years ago.

Yes it would be nice. If they ever get their bullpen straightened out it may happen. Of course they may be needing a shortstop soon if Peralta gets suspended for the latest PED scandal.

[Gil Dobie]

Yes it would be nice. If they ever get their bullpen straightened out it may happen. Of course they may be needing a shortstop soon if Peralta gets suspended for the latest PED scandal.

Yes, that bullpen :(

[darell1976]

Finally a win for the Tribe...5-2 over Texas.

[AshevilleApp2]

Yes, that bullpen :(

I saw on the Tigers website today that Dotel may be out for the season. Hopefully Villareal and Albuquerque can get their control issues worked out in Toledo and be ready soon.

[Gil Dobie]

I saw on the Tigers website today that Dotel may be out for the season. Hopefully Villareal and Albuquerque can get their control issues worked out in Toledo and be ready soon.

Bullpen has taken a Verlander 3 hit shutout into extra innings today.

[AshevilleApp2]

Bullpen has taken a Verlander 3 hit shutout into extra innings today.

Beat me to it. xsmhx

[AshevilleApp2]

Another quality start by Porcello. Tigers win 4-0.

[Gil Dobie]

Another quality start by Porcello. Tigers win 4-0.

Against the Twins ace, and the bullpen didn't extend the game. :)

[AshevilleApp2]

Tigers win yesterday to split a 6 game road trip. Should have won 4, but them's the breaks.

[AshevilleApp2]

Scherzer for Cy Young?

Sanchez and Avila go on the 15 day DL. Hopefully all Sanchez needs is some rest. Avila needs to find his batting stroke when he comes back.

[Gil Dobie]

Nice win against Baltimore and the amazing Davis.

Second Scherzer for Cy Young.

[AshevilleApp2]

Another blown save!!




But a good one this time. xnodx

[AshevilleApp2]

Angels can't beat the Astros.

Tigers can't beat the Angels.

[AshevilleApp2]

The free fall continues and we're all tied up.

[darell1976]

Hello first place....miss us?

[AshevilleApp2]

Hello first place....miss us?

Well it has been a long time.

[darell1976]

Well it has been a long time.

Now all Cleveland needs to do is play all their games against the White Sox and a playoff berth is golden.

[AshevilleApp2]

Now all Cleveland needs to do is play all their games against the White Sox and a playoff berth is golden.


xlolx

[AshevilleApp2]

Finally got a good outing from Verlander yesterday. Kind of strange typing that. Tigers take 3 of 4 from Toronto. Big four game series at Cleveland starting today.

[Laker]

Twins get swept by the Yankees in a four game series. Good, bad or mediocre, we just can't beat the Evil Empire, even at home. xblehx

[Gil Dobie]

Verlander back in the win column :)

[AshevilleApp2]

Tigers take the first two in Cleveland. xsmileyclapx

[Gil Dobie]

Miggy goes 4-4 in today's loss.

[NoDak 4 Ever]

This picture is why cameras were invented.

http://img.gawkerassets.com/img/18t95b37m6sp6jpg/ku-xlarge.jpg

[darell1976]

Detroit 48-39 ---
Cleveland 46-42 2.5
KC 41-44 6
Minn 37-48 10
CWS 34-51 13

[AshevilleApp2]

Interesting game tonight. Scherzer goes for win #14 and Cleveland looks for a split. Either way, the Tigers will come out of an 11 game road trip with a winning record. Pretty rare this season.

[darell1976]

After tonights game against Detriot Cleveland hosts Toronto and KC..7 home games (including tonight) time to make up some ground on the Tigers. 2 1/2 back...can't afford to slip further down in the standings.

[AshevilleApp2]

No decision for Scherzer, but the Tigers win in 10 innings. They're now .500 on the road this season.

[Gil Dobie]

No decision for Scherzer, but the Tigers win in 10 innings. They're now .500 on the road this season.

Smyly gets the win and goes to 4-0 xcoolx

[darell1976]

No decision for Scherzer, but the Tigers win in 10 innings. They're now .500 on the road this season.

:(

[AshevilleApp2]

:(



Glad for the Tigers taking the series, but they still only lead by 3.5 games. Long way to go.


And Nick Swisher needs to pay attention!! :D

[darell1976]

Glad for the Tigers taking the series, but they still only lead by 3.5 games. Long way to go.


And Nick Swisher needs to pay attention!! :D

I saw that video...total brain fart!!

[darell1976]

Indians now 2 1/2 back as they beat Toronto and the White Sox beat the Tigers.

[bodoyle]

My Sox took 2 of 3 from Detroit - now we're only 800 games out lol.

Benches cleared yesterday - http://www.csnchicago.com/white-sox-talk/gifs-benches-clear-white-sox-tigers-game

[Laker]

My Sox took 2 of 3 from Detroit - now we're only 800 games out lol.

Benches cleared yesterday - http://www.csnchicago.com/white-sox-talk/gifs-benches-clear-white-sox-tigers-game

Did you hear Torii Hunter's interview after the game? I thought that they were talking to Dave Chappele! :D

[AshevilleApp2]

My Sox took 2 of 3 from Detroit - now we're only 800 games out lol.

Benches cleared yesterday - http://www.csnchicago.com/white-sox-talk/gifs-benches-clear-white-sox-tigers-game

Good job by Chicago. I hope that's not a sign for the second half.

[bodoyle]

Did you hear Torii Hunter's interview after the game? I thought that they were talking to Dave Chappele! :D

No I didn't. What did he say/do?

[Laker]

Twins take two out of three from the Yankees for their first series win in New York in more than a decade.

The chocolate milks are on me! xthumbsupx

[Laker]

No I didn't. What did he say/do?

I hope that this comes through-it took forever to load.

http://ftw.usatoday.com/2013/07/torii-hunter-raises-eyebrows-in-eyebrow-raising-post-fight-interview/

[bodoyle]

That was....interesting. WTH?!?!?!

[AshevilleApp2]

American League wins home field in the World Series. I still don't agree that the All Star game should decide something that important. I'd prefer that the cumulative league record in inter league games determine it. Anyway, the Tigers in the game represented the team well.

[Gil Dobie]

American League wins home field in the World Series. I still don't agree that the All Star game should decide something that important. I'd prefer that the cumulative league record in inter league games determine it. Anyway, the Tigers in the game represented the team well.

I'm on the other side of the fence, I like an all-star game that has some meaning.

[NoDak 4 Ever]

I'm on the other side of the fence, I like an all-star game that has some meaning.

This. The old system had it predetermined which was bs anyway.

[AshevilleApp2]

This. The old system had it predetermined which was bs anyway.

Not saying the old system was right. Saying that a one game exhibition shouldn't determine home field in the World Series.

[Gil Dobie]

Going to the Twins vs Indians tomorrow night, Kazmir vs Pelfry.

Mauer / Morneau bobblehead giveaway, probably be packed to start.

[AshevilleApp2]

Going to the Twins vs Indians tomorrow night, Kazmir vs Pelfry.

Mauer / Morneau bobblehead giveaway, probably be packed to start.

Go Twins!

[darell1976]

Go Twins!

Hey....that will be enough of that. xtroublex


xlolx

[Gil Dobie]

Joe Mauer with Game winning RBI.

Got to the stadium at noon, gang from Moorhead was in line for bobbleheads. Group next to them had a tent, coolers and an air conditioner. They had stayed over-night.
Took a break for lunch at Kieran's Irish Pub. Sat in the sun until 5:00 when the gates open, got the Mauer/Morneau combo bobblehead and saw a nice 1 run game with a near full-house. Tony Oliva was hanging by his Cuban Sandwich booth, turns 75 tomorrow. One of the guys talked with Tim Laudner for a while. The weather was also great.

Twins keep game used baseballs and dugout lineup cards. Really soaking the fans for Detroit Tigers anything. Tigers Lineup card was $75, other teams $25. Game used baseballs were $30, but the only Tiger game ball was a Willingham foul ball of Sanchez for $50 bucks. Too much man.

[darell1976]

Indians despite the loss 3-2 to Minnesota stays 1 1/2 back of Detriot as they fall again to KC 6-5.

[AshevilleApp2]

Scherzer gets win number 14, but Cabrera has to leave the game with a hip flexor injury. Gotta hope that isn't a long term issue.

[AshevilleApp2]

2-0 without Miggy in the lineup.

[Gil Dobie]

Miss Miggy, Fielder with a big night, Victor is in a groove. Verlander needs a good game tonight.

[AshevilleApp2]

Tigers get a sweep of the Phillies over the weekend. But they only kept pace with Cleveland, who swept Texas.

[AshevilleApp2]

Tigers and Indians both win. Miggy had to leave the game with the hip flexor issue again.

Interesting trade yesterday. The Tigers got insurance for Peralta's possible suspension, and likely Shortstop of the future Jose Iglesias, in a three trade with the Red Sox and White Sox. Had to give up Avisail Garcia to Chicago and Brayan Villarreal to Boston. I hate to see that talent leave, but this could work out all around.

[darell1976]

Cleveland has won 6 straight and 7 out of their last 10 to stay 2 1/2 back of Detriot. Cleveland is also 1/2 back of Boston and Baltimore for the two wildcard spots. It's a good sign to see these kind of winning streaks after the all star game.

[Gil Dobie]

Tigers plan for life without Jhonny by picking up a singing shortstop from the Inglasias family. Don't know if he is related to Julio or Enrique though. ;)

[AshevilleApp2]

Tigers plan for life without Jhonny by picking up a singing shortstop from the Inglasias family. Don't know if he is related to Julio or Enrique though. ;)

I watched a clip on You Tube of some of his defensive work and now I don't care if they're related! Granted that only shows the great plays, but this kid should instantly improve our infield defense significantly. Fister and Porcello should be dancing. xnodx

[darell1976]

Ok this is ridiculous...Detroit needs to lose, Cleveland has won 7 in a row and hasn't passed the Tigers in the standings...however they are tied for the lead in the Wildcard race.

[AshevilleApp2]

Ok this is ridiculous...Detroit needs to lose, Cleveland has won 7 in a row and hasn't passed the Tigers in the standings...however they are tied for the lead in the Wildcard race.

Well my thinking was somewhat different of course. :) Every day I check the scores and both Cleveland and Kansas City have won. Nine out of ten games won by the Tigers, and a game or so in the standings achieved.

I've been watching the wild card race as well. At the break I wouldn't have thought the AL Central could get a team in. Things are getting interesting.

[Laker]

Justin Morneau is still a Twin. Now, what will happen with him next year? New contract or lose him to free agency? I was in Schmidt's meat market in Nicollet MN the other day- one of my former students who works there said that Justin had been in there recently. He is married to a local gal and has a house by Lake Crystal- he doesn't want to leave but it could happen.

[darell1976]

Well my thinking was somewhat different of course. :) Every day I check the scores and both Cleveland and Kansas City have won. Nine out of ten games won by the Tigers, and a game or so in the standings achieved.

I've been watching the wild card race as well. At the break I wouldn't have thought the AL Central could get a team in. Things are getting interesting.

As of now looks like 8 in a row for the Tribe up 5-0 after 5 against the White Sox and with Detroit and Tampa off Cleveland will be up to 2 games back of Detroit and the #1 team in the WC.

[Gil Dobie]

Justin Morneau is still a Twin. Now, what will happen with him next year? New contract or lose him to free agency? I was in Schmidt's meat market in Nicollet MN the other day- one of my former students who works there said that Justin had been in there recently. He is married to a local gal and has a house by Lake Crystal- he doesn't want to leave but it could happen.

Morneau told a friend of mine that he doesn't want to leave Minnesota. Twins never talked to him about his future or even taking a paycut. With Sano coming up and Mauer getting older, 1st Base may be pretty crowded.

[AshevilleApp2]

Tigers get a great performance from Fister and scratch out a win against Chicago.

When you consider that Miggy and Infante are both out, this team is showing some resiliency. Iglesias impressive in his first game. Leyland was planning on playing him at second until Cabrera came up sore again, forcing him to move to third. That versatility could be huge. Got a bloop single RBI as well.

[Gil Dobie]

HR by Hunter, Iglesias and Peralta help Scherzer to his 16th win.

[AshevilleApp2]

Tigers get the sweep!

Now comes a ten game road trip starting with four in Cleveland. Then three in New York and three in Chicago. Kind of a brutal stretch, playing something like eighteen games in seventeen days. Hopefully Cabrera and Infante get healthy soon.

[AshevilleApp2]

Alex Avila is tonight's hero with a three run dinger in the ninth inning! Sanchez gives up two runs in 7-2/3 innings with eleven strikeouts. Alburquerque gets one out in the eighth inning and the win.

[Laker]

KC 13 Twins 0. I realize that a loss is a loss but man, does this ever look bad. :(

[darell1976]

Alex Avila is tonight's hero with a three run dinger in the ninth inning! Sanchez gives up two runs in 7-2/3 innings with eleven strikeouts. Alburquerque gets one out in the eighth inning and the win.

Damn Perez giving up that homer. xmadx

[Gil Dobie]

KC 13 Twins 0. I realize that a loss is a loss but man, does this ever look bad. :(

Infielder Jamie Carroll pitched and retired the Royals 1-2-3, in the bottom of the 8th :)

[Laker]

Infielder Jamie Carroll pitched and retired the Royals 1-2-3, in the bottom of the 8th :)

Good! By that time, I went for a two mile walk and saw a shooting star that burned halfway across the sky!

[AshevilleApp2]

Verlander pitches as well as he has this season and the Tigers grab the win.

I've gotten what I wanted going into this series. Now there's two chances to stretch the lead.

[Gil Dobie]

Verlander pitches as well as he has this season and the Tigers grab the win.

I've gotten what I wanted going into this series. Now there's two chances to stretch the lead.

Chance for a sweep and 12 straight wins, that what I want. Greedy at that. :)

[Gil Dobie]

Detroit Tigers Factoid of the day.

The Tigers last won the World Series in 1984, the same year Prince Fielder, Doug Fister, Max Scherzer and Anibal Sanchez were born.

[AshevilleApp2]

Chance for a sweep and 12 straight wins, that what I want. Greedy at that. :)

I should have phrased that "what I reasonably could have hoped to get".

[Gil Dobie]

Scherzer goes for 17-1 today and 12 in a row for the Tigers!

[AshevilleApp2]

Scherzer goes for 17-1 today and 12 in a row for the Tigers!

Done! This was a huge sweep. Now lets see what they can do in New York. Upside to this coming series is that I get to see them on TV. About the only time that happens is when they play New York or Chicago.

[Gil Dobie]

Tough loss to the Yankees after Miggy's homer to tie the game.

[Laker]

Twins sweep in Chicago by hitting seven home runs. Duensing gets two wins on the same day!

[Gil Dobie]

Twins Albers wins second straight game, 17.2 innings with a 0.00 era, not bad start for a rookie.

Consecutive scoreless innings pitched to start a Major League career
39 - Brad Ziegler, Oakland Athletics - May 31 through August 14, 2008

Tigers need to get over the hump and win with Miggy hot and Scherzer going for 18-1 tonight.

[Gil Dobie]

WTF, how does Mike Trout have a WAR higher than Miguel Cabrera? Do stolen bases and defense carry that much weight? Trout is a great player, but how can he be rated above the greatest hitter in the game. Cabrera isn't that bad of a fielder, just doesn't have the range of a smaller person.

[AshevilleApp2]

6-4 on the road trip. Not what I was hoping for after the sweep in Cleveland, but good all the same.

Big five game series with the Royals starting tonight. Hopefully the Tigers will take at least three games, and cool KC off.

At some point they need to give Cabrera a rest. He's still putting up great numbers, but you can see that he's playing in a lot of pain.

[AshevilleApp2]

Sanchez gives up one run in 71/3 innings, after needing thirty pitches to get out of the first inning, and the Tigers win game 1.

Doubleheader today.

[AshevilleApp2]

Sanchez gives up one run in 71/3 innings, after needing thirty pitches to get out of the first inning, and the Tigers win game 1.

Doubleheader today.


Kansas City is a good team.

[AshevilleApp2]

Three out of five from KC. I'll take it.

[Gil Dobie]

Miggy 40 HR and 120 RBI in the Triple Crown Chase
Scherzer now 18-1

[Gil Dobie]

Nice win over the Twins last night, let's hope Verlander has a good game today.

[NoDak 4 Ever]

WTF, how does Mike Trout have a WAR higher than Miguel Cabrera? Do stolen bases and defense carry that much weight? Trout is a great player, but how can he be rated above the greatest hitter in the game. Cabrera isn't that bad of a fielder, just doesn't have the range of a smaller person.

The R is pretty important in WAR.

[Gil Dobie]

The R is pretty important in WAR.

There are a couple things with WAR that are not definitive enough to justify rating a player. Defense and Salary. Some teams can afford to pay players more than others, so the high priced players on rich teams have a distinct disadvantage right from the get-go. Defense rates a SS position higher than the 2B position. Is the SS position properly graded that much higher than 2B or even 3B? Maybe we could have a money ball MVP and an MVP based on the perception of what they do on the field.

[Gil Dobie]

Not happening with Verlander this year. :(

[AshevilleApp2]

Not happening with Verlander this year. :(

xnodx It's been crazy this year. If he was 80% of the last couple of years, the Central would be nearly locked up now. Verlander had a bad season a few years back as I recall, after a couple of good seasons. Hopefully this is some of the same and he just needs to adjust with age.

But the Tigers are still are up five games on a good Cleveland team, and I think are a better team than when the season started. Peralta's bat is missed, but Iglesias was a great defensive and long term pickup, and the bullpen is more stable.

[AshevilleApp2]

A very helpful road sweep of the Mets over the weekend!

The next ten games have pretty big playoff implications. Oakland (4 games) and Cleveland (3) in Detroit, followed by three games in Boston.

[Gil Dobie]

At least the rest of the pitching staff is having a decent year. Need to win one against Oakland though.

[AshevilleApp2]

At least the rest of the pitching staff is having a decent year. Need to win one against Oakland though.

Only one more chance. The Tigers have really struggled with teams from the AL West this season.

[Gil Dobie]

Scherzer going for 20th win tonight.

[Gil Dobie]

Looks like the Twinkies are talking with Pittsburgh about a Morneau trade, Willingham was claimed off waivers by the Orioles and Mauer is out with a concussion. The Twins set a team record for most K's in a season and are on pace to break the AL record.

[Gil Dobie]

Scherzer didn't get #20, Hunter's walk-off HR saved him from getting his 2nd loss.

[darell1976]

Indians 6 back of Detroit and 3.5 back of a wildcard, needs a win against Atlanta.

[AshevilleApp2]

Tigers take first game against Cleveland. :)

Miggy has to leave after his first at bat. I'd sit him the remainder of the weekend and hope the rest of the team can get another win (or two)to take the series. Maybe rest him longer than that if it will be beneficial. I hate to see him out when he's chasing history, but they'll need him as healthy as possible for the stretch run.

[AshevilleApp2]

Verlander pitched well yesterday, but Cleveland got the win. Tigers took two in the series and finished the season series 15-4. Detroit is 65-53 against other teams this season, while Cleveland is 68-49. Crazy.

Cabrera missed his second game yesterday. I'd love to see him play against Boston the next couple of days, but don't really expect it. Ramon Santiago has stepped up big this season. He played third yesterday in place of Miggy, so he's filled in at second, short an third in the last couple of weeks.

[Laker]

Looks like the Twinkies are talking with Pittsburgh about a Morneau trade, Willingham was claimed off waivers by the Orioles and Mauer is out with a concussion. The Twins set a team record for most K's in a season and are on pace to break the AL record.

This season has been another disaster for the Twins. They better have something else to talk about next year besides hosting the All-Star game. Sid Hartman keeps saying that Morneau will come back next year, but why should he? I hope that the Pirates make, and do well, in the post season.

[Gil Dobie]

Getting tough to wins games, Cabrera is hurting, time to buckle down and grind it out.

[Gil Dobie]

Tigers win, Cleveland loses. Should be a good battle for the wildcards in the AL, both Central teams, KC and Cleveland are in the hunt.

[AshevilleApp2]

Tigers win, Cleveland loses. Should be a good battle for the wildcards in the AL, both Central teams, KC and Cleveland are in the hunt.

I hope the Tigers hurt KC's chances this weekend. But I would love to see another team from the Central get a wildcard.

[AshevilleApp2]

Two of three over the weekend, with the Mariners coming to town today.

Huge series starts tonight with Cleveland traveling to Kansas City.

[Gil Dobie]

Sounds like the Tigers are thinking of putting Peralta in the outfield when his suspension is over.

[AshevilleApp2]

If Cleveland wins tonight, they'll take over the second wild card spot. Great job of hanging in there. Francona should get serious consideration as AL Manager of the Year. xnodx

[darell1976]

If Cleveland wins tonight, they'll take over the second wild card spot. Great job of hanging in there. Francona should get serious consideration as AL Manager of the Year. xnodx

He has kept this team from another second half collapse.

[Gil Dobie]

Cleveland has a great chance with games against Houston, Chicago WS and Twins to finish the season.

[AshevilleApp2]

It's not a lock, but assuming the Tigers do make the playoffs, how will Leyland set up the starting rotation?