The bullpen was one man lighter upon hearing the news that Jason Grilli had been traded to Colorado (thank goodness), so the Tigers needed a good outing from Jeremy Bonderman.
Needless to say, Mr. Bonderman delivered.
The first inning was a good sized roadblock, as it usually is for Jeremy. He loaded the bases with no one out, and two of the runners came in to score. Playing behind the Yankees in the Bronx usually leads to bad things, but Bonderman never allowed them to get going again. After the patient lineup worked his pitchcount very high in the first four innings, they lost it for whatever reason. Bonderman threw less than 40 pitches in the following 3.2 innings. Since I'm ever the pessimist, I did find the fact that Jeremy only struck out one batter very alarming. As concerning as that is, to only walk two batters against the Yankee lineup is impressive nevertheless. Hopefully this start will be something that Bonderman can gain confidence from.
Andy Pettitte was very good until the fifth inning, when Detroit started to really make him work. Marcus Thames and Placido Polanco both had big home runs to snatch a lead that wouldn't be relinquished. Gary Sheffield went 2-4 with a run scored, and Curtis Granderson came in after Pettitte left the game and reached base twice.
Since the Tigers have had quality starts in their last two outings, there won't be quite as much pressure on Nate Robertson to have an amazing start. If he can manage to keep the Tigers in the game, the bullpen will be rested enough log some innings if needed (Francisco Cruceta? Yes please) and possibly guide the Tigers to a series sweep.
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
Quality Control
The setup to this series with the hobbled Bronx Bombers was, in all honesty, kind of scary. The Tigers went in with the three starting pitchers they would be sending to the hill having only *one* quality start between them. Mind you, the state of the Yankees pitching staff (sans the back end of the bullpen) isn't a whole lot better. Phil Hughes and Ian Kennedy are experiencing their rookie growing pains, and Andy Pettitte hasn't been his usual ace/#2 self.
Hughes got into trouble early, with Magglio Ordonez driving in a couple on a double in the first inning. By the time he was pulled in the in the middle of the third inning, he had walked more than he'd struck out (three to two), and six runs had come in to score. There would be no runs after that, with the most effective reliever being 25 year old Ross Ohlendorf for 3.1 innings.
Kenny Rogers cruised through six innings on his way to a second quality start of the year. Other than a two-run home run slapped by Robinson Cano, the only rocky part of the start came in the third inning. He quickly got the first two outs, then proceeded to walk the bases full. He did manage to get the final out, but that inning accounted for three of his four walks on the day.
The bullpen was very up and down. Bobby Seay looked good, and Clay Rapada did his job in cleaning up a mess in a very crucial situation. The ugly takes the form of Denny Bautista and frequent offender Todd Jones. Bautista walked the first batter he faced, got two outs, then walked the next two men. With the bases loaded, he hit Derek Jeter to bring in a run and cut the lead to 6-3. In the ninth, Jones showed why he's garnered the contempt of many a Tiger fan. He walked Hideki Matsui, and allowed him to advance on a wild pitch to the next batter. Jason Giambi drove in the runner to cut the lead to 6-4. Todd retired the next three in order to seal the deal.
Yes, it was a save. But therein lies the problem with that stat. If that was a tie ballgame, the Tigers lose the game. Even if it was a one run lead, the game would've radically shifted.
Hughes got into trouble early, with Magglio Ordonez driving in a couple on a double in the first inning. By the time he was pulled in the in the middle of the third inning, he had walked more than he'd struck out (three to two), and six runs had come in to score. There would be no runs after that, with the most effective reliever being 25 year old Ross Ohlendorf for 3.1 innings.
Kenny Rogers cruised through six innings on his way to a second quality start of the year. Other than a two-run home run slapped by Robinson Cano, the only rocky part of the start came in the third inning. He quickly got the first two outs, then proceeded to walk the bases full. He did manage to get the final out, but that inning accounted for three of his four walks on the day.
The bullpen was very up and down. Bobby Seay looked good, and Clay Rapada did his job in cleaning up a mess in a very crucial situation. The ugly takes the form of Denny Bautista and frequent offender Todd Jones. Bautista walked the first batter he faced, got two outs, then walked the next two men. With the bases loaded, he hit Derek Jeter to bring in a run and cut the lead to 6-3. In the ninth, Jones showed why he's garnered the contempt of many a Tiger fan. He walked Hideki Matsui, and allowed him to advance on a wild pitch to the next batter. Jason Giambi drove in the runner to cut the lead to 6-4. Todd retired the next three in order to seal the deal.
Yes, it was a save. But therein lies the problem with that stat. If that was a tie ballgame, the Tigers lose the game. Even if it was a one run lead, the game would've radically shifted.
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Offensive Obscenity
Remember yesterday when I said that the offensive output wasn't an aberration? I knew that there would be fireworks in Detroit with Kenny Rogers squaring off against Luis Mendoza. But I had no clue that it would be this bad (I promise).
Every Tiger in the starting lineup collected at least one hit, and the only player that didn't manage an RBI was Edgar Renteria. Carlos Guillen is really stretching out that hot start, as he reached base four times and notched five RBIs. Anyone who questioned the ridiculous contract that Miguel Cabrera received is probably pretty quiet by now. And just to prove himself a little more he flipped another ball into the right field seats.
The starting pitching was, for the lack of a better word, horrendous on both sides. Kenny was chased after only 3.1 innings, and Mendoza couldn't even manage two innings. The Texas bullpen made any bad showings by the Tigers earlier in the season look pedestrian in comparison. Nine walks, two hit by pitches, and nine runs.
On the Tigers bullpen front, they were pretty darn good today. Clay Rapada completely bailed Kenny Rogers out of a bases loaded situation, and Aquilino Lopez was brilliant throught three innings.
I'll go out on a limb and say that the fireworks in this series aren't done, and that tomorrows game is going to be very entertaining one way or another.
Every Tiger in the starting lineup collected at least one hit, and the only player that didn't manage an RBI was Edgar Renteria. Carlos Guillen is really stretching out that hot start, as he reached base four times and notched five RBIs. Anyone who questioned the ridiculous contract that Miguel Cabrera received is probably pretty quiet by now. And just to prove himself a little more he flipped another ball into the right field seats.
The starting pitching was, for the lack of a better word, horrendous on both sides. Kenny was chased after only 3.1 innings, and Mendoza couldn't even manage two innings. The Texas bullpen made any bad showings by the Tigers earlier in the season look pedestrian in comparison. Nine walks, two hit by pitches, and nine runs.
On the Tigers bullpen front, they were pretty darn good today. Clay Rapada completely bailed Kenny Rogers out of a bases loaded situation, and Aquilino Lopez was brilliant throught three innings.
I'll go out on a limb and say that the fireworks in this series aren't done, and that tomorrows game is going to be very entertaining one way or another.
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Terrific Tuesday Indeed
Today the Tigers came one step closer to .500. The pitching and hitting were both in synch, and it was cruise control all day (with the exception of the 1st inning).
Justin Verlander really needed a good start for both himself and for the team. He managed a quality start, only allowing a Frank Catalanotto solo HR in the second. It was a nice start, but a negative can be found once more. He only walked two batters, but also only struck out three. Zach Miner was the only member of the bullpen to let a runner cross in three innings.
Vicente Padilla was tabbed to try to shut down the Tigers, but instead allowed eight baserunners and seven earned runs in three innings of work. Josh Rupe seemed to be up to the task, cruising very easily through three innings. In the fourth inning, however, he loaded the bases with no one out and was given the hook. Wes Littleton allowed all three to score, putting the game even further out of reach.
The offense had another bizarre game where the role players seemed to be doing most of the mashing. Ramon Santiago crushed his first home run in five years, while also driving in three. Edgar Renteria showed that it wasn't just Rogers Centre keeping him hot, with ANOTHER four hit game. The guys who are supposed to be beasts didn't do too shabby either as Miguel Cabrera and Magglio Ordonez both smashed solo shots.
With the next two starters for Texas being Luis Mendoza and Jason Jennings, don't expect this to be an aberration.
Justin Verlander really needed a good start for both himself and for the team. He managed a quality start, only allowing a Frank Catalanotto solo HR in the second. It was a nice start, but a negative can be found once more. He only walked two batters, but also only struck out three. Zach Miner was the only member of the bullpen to let a runner cross in three innings.
Vicente Padilla was tabbed to try to shut down the Tigers, but instead allowed eight baserunners and seven earned runs in three innings of work. Josh Rupe seemed to be up to the task, cruising very easily through three innings. In the fourth inning, however, he loaded the bases with no one out and was given the hook. Wes Littleton allowed all three to score, putting the game even further out of reach.
The offense had another bizarre game where the role players seemed to be doing most of the mashing. Ramon Santiago crushed his first home run in five years, while also driving in three. Edgar Renteria showed that it wasn't just Rogers Centre keeping him hot, with ANOTHER four hit game. The guys who are supposed to be beasts didn't do too shabby either as Miguel Cabrera and Magglio Ordonez both smashed solo shots.
With the next two starters for Texas being Luis Mendoza and Jason Jennings, don't expect this to be an aberration.
Monday, April 21, 2008
Granderson Trip Report
My girlfriend and I took time out of our busy schedules to see Curtis Granderson in rare low A ball action on Friday night.
His first at-bat was decent, as he saw a couple of pitches. He hit the ball almost straight into the ground and managed to leg out an infield single. Actually, he managed the only two hits the Whitecaps had up until the 7th inning. The second hit was a laser beam triple hit to right-center field. I don't think that 10,000 people could cheer any louder than they were at that moment. He got a nice standing ovation as he exited from his final at-bat.
In the field, he didn't seem too hampered by his legs. He didn't have to make any strenuous throws, so that'll be something saved for another day I suppose. The most nervous moment of the night, for me, came when he was making a running catch in left-center field. There was a good amount of momentum, and it carried him all the way into the wall. He stopped himself with both hands forward, but didn't seem to have any ill effects. It's A ball, Curtis! Jesus Christ.
We didn't get there early enough to get any decent, up close pictures of him. But we did get some pretty good action photos. Unfortunately the pictures will have to wait for a bit while my girlfriend's scanner gets off the fritz.
His first at-bat was decent, as he saw a couple of pitches. He hit the ball almost straight into the ground and managed to leg out an infield single. Actually, he managed the only two hits the Whitecaps had up until the 7th inning. The second hit was a laser beam triple hit to right-center field. I don't think that 10,000 people could cheer any louder than they were at that moment. He got a nice standing ovation as he exited from his final at-bat.
In the field, he didn't seem too hampered by his legs. He didn't have to make any strenuous throws, so that'll be something saved for another day I suppose. The most nervous moment of the night, for me, came when he was making a running catch in left-center field. There was a good amount of momentum, and it carried him all the way into the wall. He stopped himself with both hands forward, but didn't seem to have any ill effects. It's A ball, Curtis! Jesus Christ.
We didn't get there early enough to get any decent, up close pictures of him. But we did get some pretty good action photos. Unfortunately the pictures will have to wait for a bit while my girlfriend's scanner gets off the fritz.
Afternoon Delight
While most people were eating their lunch, the Tigers were feasting on Shaun Marcum.
Marcum almost doubled his walk total for the year with four free passes, and the Tigers made him pay to the tune of five runs in only five innings.
Pudge had a nice 4-5 day, Edgar Renteria hit his 3rd home run in a week, and Ryan Raburn came up big with a two RBI single in the 2nd.
Armando Galarraga made his second start of the year and looked much less consistent. He also walked four batters, and had bases loaded situations in back to back innings. He obviously has god on his side, as no runners came in to score in either situation. A control pitching soft tosser cannot afford to get himself into situations like that, and it really stirred visions of Chad Durbin from last year.
The bullpen was solid, but unspectular. Aquilino Lopez gave a solid 1.1 innings, Clay Rapada was used for only for a couple of matchups, and Denny Bautista got himself in and out of a jam. Todd Jones, of course, allowed the only run of the day on a Gregg Zaun home run in the 9th.
Marcum almost doubled his walk total for the year with four free passes, and the Tigers made him pay to the tune of five runs in only five innings.
Pudge had a nice 4-5 day, Edgar Renteria hit his 3rd home run in a week, and Ryan Raburn came up big with a two RBI single in the 2nd.
Armando Galarraga made his second start of the year and looked much less consistent. He also walked four batters, and had bases loaded situations in back to back innings. He obviously has god on his side, as no runners came in to score in either situation. A control pitching soft tosser cannot afford to get himself into situations like that, and it really stirred visions of Chad Durbin from last year.
The bullpen was solid, but unspectular. Aquilino Lopez gave a solid 1.1 innings, Clay Rapada was used for only for a couple of matchups, and Denny Bautista got himself in and out of a jam. Todd Jones, of course, allowed the only run of the day on a Gregg Zaun home run in the 9th.
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
Back to Back
After exploding yesterday for six runs in the 8th inning, the thing that was on everyone's mind was whether or not it would be a catalyst for the Tigers offense as a whole. Whether it was that, or if it's just Twins pitching (or more specifically non-Joe Nathan Twin relievers) is debatable. The one thing that can't be denied is that the Tigers bats looked damn good tonight.
Gary Sheffield hushed the talk of those saying he should be on the DL (that includes me), if only briefly, with a solo shot in the 1st inning. The four, five and six spots provided the rest of the offense with a home run apiece, and five RBIs to their credit. The last of those shots, a Miguel Cabrera 2-run bomb, was the deciding blow.
Nate Robertson ate up 6.1 innings, but had to leave with a strained lat. Hopefully it's nothing that will ail him for too long, because the Tigers simply cannot afford more pitching injuries. The bullpen was strong with the exception of Todd Jones. If not for a phenomenal defensive effort from Ryan Raburn (aren't you glad he got called up?), Jones would've given up a home run to Delmon Young. As it stood, Young still came around to score on a Craig Monroe single. Jones closed the door lightly from there to give the Tigers their first back to back wins this season.
Gary Sheffield hushed the talk of those saying he should be on the DL (that includes me), if only briefly, with a solo shot in the 1st inning. The four, five and six spots provided the rest of the offense with a home run apiece, and five RBIs to their credit. The last of those shots, a Miguel Cabrera 2-run bomb, was the deciding blow.
Nate Robertson ate up 6.1 innings, but had to leave with a strained lat. Hopefully it's nothing that will ail him for too long, because the Tigers simply cannot afford more pitching injuries. The bullpen was strong with the exception of Todd Jones. If not for a phenomenal defensive effort from Ryan Raburn (aren't you glad he got called up?), Jones would've given up a home run to Delmon Young. As it stood, Young still came around to score on a Craig Monroe single. Jones closed the door lightly from there to give the Tigers their first back to back wins this season.
Monday, April 14, 2008
A Wild Night
When many fans and media spoke of the Detroit Tigers in the pre-season, the most common thing they would say is "They're built to win a lot of games 10-9". As everyone knows, it's gone like that, but without any offense.
Once again, it was more of the same. Jeremy Bonderman pitched decently well, but a dropped pop-foul by Pudge Rodriguez continued an inning and allowed two runs to score. Bondo let another three cross the plate in the 6th, and the deficit ballooned to 5-0.
In the bottom of the 6th, it finally happened. Gary Sheffield hit a two out infield single, and Magglio Ordonez came right back with a single into center field. Miguel Cabrera managed to shoot one past Mike Lamb's outstretched glove into left field, and Gary Sheffield came in to start the scoring. Carlos Guillen mashed a 2-run double down the left field line, and scored on a line drive Edgar Renteria single. Spirits were up as the score was cut to 5-4.
With two guys on in top of the 7th, Bonderman got the hook, and last year's bullpen hero Bobby Seay came in to face Twin lefties Joe Mauer and Justin Morneau. Mauer walked to load the bases. Before it was all said and done, the Twins stretched their lead back out to five.
After a somewhat uneventful bottom of the 7th (in which Pudge Rodriguez hit a comical home run off of Denard Span's glove), the Tigers absolutely exploded in the bottom of the 8th. Six hits (including two doubles and two triples), a throwing error, and a sac fly gave the Tigers the lead 11-9.
But as any Tigers fan knows, no lead is safe as long as Todd Jones is around to close. Two men on base, two outs, a long flyball, and an excellent Ryan Raburn catch. A typical Jones outing.
Once again, it was more of the same. Jeremy Bonderman pitched decently well, but a dropped pop-foul by Pudge Rodriguez continued an inning and allowed two runs to score. Bondo let another three cross the plate in the 6th, and the deficit ballooned to 5-0.
In the bottom of the 6th, it finally happened. Gary Sheffield hit a two out infield single, and Magglio Ordonez came right back with a single into center field. Miguel Cabrera managed to shoot one past Mike Lamb's outstretched glove into left field, and Gary Sheffield came in to start the scoring. Carlos Guillen mashed a 2-run double down the left field line, and scored on a line drive Edgar Renteria single. Spirits were up as the score was cut to 5-4.
With two guys on in top of the 7th, Bonderman got the hook, and last year's bullpen hero Bobby Seay came in to face Twin lefties Joe Mauer and Justin Morneau. Mauer walked to load the bases. Before it was all said and done, the Twins stretched their lead back out to five.
After a somewhat uneventful bottom of the 7th (in which Pudge Rodriguez hit a comical home run off of Denard Span's glove), the Tigers absolutely exploded in the bottom of the 8th. Six hits (including two doubles and two triples), a throwing error, and a sac fly gave the Tigers the lead 11-9.
But as any Tigers fan knows, no lead is safe as long as Todd Jones is around to close. Two men on base, two outs, a long flyball, and an excellent Ryan Raburn catch. A typical Jones outing.
Sunday, April 13, 2008
Just Another Day at the Office
When a team is trying to get on a roll, it doesn't help facing the opponent's ace in their park. Javier Vasquez has the second most strikeouts in the majors since 2000, and got himself another eight today.
Another game goes by, and one still has to wonder when it is that the Tigers bats will finally wake up and give their horrendous pitching staff some support. Clete Thomas got the opportunity to leadoff again, and he answered the call with four strikeouts. There wasn't a single Tiger hitter with more than one hit, and they were shutout for the major league leading fourth time this season.
The pitching staff somehow found a way to be more atrocious. Kenny Rogers walked four batters, allowed seven hits, and seven runs came in on his watch (including a Paul Konerko grand slam). Zach Miner came in to relieve, but provided no relief. Two inherited runners score on a double, and he walked the next two White Sox before Joe Crede came up to bat. On the third pitch of the at-bat he took a hanging sinker deep into the left field seats for the second grand slam of the game for the Sox.
With the game fully out of hand, Clay Rapada was summoned for some garbage time work. Ironically enough, Rapada was the only Detroit pitcher all day to consistently throw strikes. He cruised through the final two innings, not allowing a single hit.
Another game goes by, and one still has to wonder when it is that the Tigers bats will finally wake up and give their horrendous pitching staff some support. Clete Thomas got the opportunity to leadoff again, and he answered the call with four strikeouts. There wasn't a single Tiger hitter with more than one hit, and they were shutout for the major league leading fourth time this season.
The pitching staff somehow found a way to be more atrocious. Kenny Rogers walked four batters, allowed seven hits, and seven runs came in on his watch (including a Paul Konerko grand slam). Zach Miner came in to relieve, but provided no relief. Two inherited runners score on a double, and he walked the next two White Sox before Joe Crede came up to bat. On the third pitch of the at-bat he took a hanging sinker deep into the left field seats for the second grand slam of the game for the Sox.
With the game fully out of hand, Clay Rapada was summoned for some garbage time work. Ironically enough, Rapada was the only Detroit pitcher all day to consistently throw strikes. He cruised through the final two innings, not allowing a single hit.
Saturday, April 12, 2008
Dueling
Gavin Floyd vs. Justin Verlander. A matchup that you would think would be very one-sided. The Tigers offense didn't feel it should be that way.
Floyd went 7.1 innings allowing only one hit (an Edgar Renteria single in the 8th). Gavin only allowed 5 baserunners total and had the Tigers reaching all day. Verlander on the other hand, allowed only an Orlando Cabrera home run in the 3rd inning until the 8th inning. But in the 8th inning he loaded the bases up, hit Paul Konerko on the elbow to bring one run in (on a questionable call), and allowed AJ Pierzynski to hit a 2-run single to stretch the deficit from 1-0 to 4-0.
So Jim Leyland came out one hitter too late (he should have brought lefty Bobby Seay in to face Pierzynski in the first place), and called on journeyman Francis Beltran. Beltran allowed two inherited runners to score, and one of his own on a Juan Uribe single to further the damage to 7-0.
On the offensive side of the ball, the Tigers offense is really starting to take shape. It's just too bad that it's an ugly shape. No Carlos Guillen in the lineup because of a sore leg, and with each passing day, one has to wonder whether Miguel Cabrera's leg problems aren't more serious than he's letting on. Gary Sheffield continues to hit third when he should probably be on the disabled list, and not hitting like a more patient Juan Pierre. Brandon Inge continued to be a bright spot in the young season going 1-2 and taking another walk (furthering that trade value). And a fun fact, the Tigers grounded into three more double plays, making the season total a league leading 19.
As ugly and as sloppy as the last two days have been for the Tigers, there is still an opportunity for a series win tomorrow as Kenny Rogers takes the hill against Mark Buehrle.
Floyd went 7.1 innings allowing only one hit (an Edgar Renteria single in the 8th). Gavin only allowed 5 baserunners total and had the Tigers reaching all day. Verlander on the other hand, allowed only an Orlando Cabrera home run in the 3rd inning until the 8th inning. But in the 8th inning he loaded the bases up, hit Paul Konerko on the elbow to bring one run in (on a questionable call), and allowed AJ Pierzynski to hit a 2-run single to stretch the deficit from 1-0 to 4-0.
So Jim Leyland came out one hitter too late (he should have brought lefty Bobby Seay in to face Pierzynski in the first place), and called on journeyman Francis Beltran. Beltran allowed two inherited runners to score, and one of his own on a Juan Uribe single to further the damage to 7-0.
On the offensive side of the ball, the Tigers offense is really starting to take shape. It's just too bad that it's an ugly shape. No Carlos Guillen in the lineup because of a sore leg, and with each passing day, one has to wonder whether Miguel Cabrera's leg problems aren't more serious than he's letting on. Gary Sheffield continues to hit third when he should probably be on the disabled list, and not hitting like a more patient Juan Pierre. Brandon Inge continued to be a bright spot in the young season going 1-2 and taking another walk (furthering that trade value). And a fun fact, the Tigers grounded into three more double plays, making the season total a league leading 19.
As ugly and as sloppy as the last two days have been for the Tigers, there is still an opportunity for a series win tomorrow as Kenny Rogers takes the hill against Mark Buehrle.
Relief?
The Tigers went down to Chicago to start a weekend series with the White Sox. Dontrelle Willis didn't make it out of the first inning with a hyper-extended knee after slipping on a wet mound. And the bullpen had to pick up the slack for the rest of the game.
Recipe for disaster? Most times, yes. But somehow they pulled it out.
The bullpen was solid (with the exception of Jason Grilli), only allowing seven baserunners to reach in all nine innings. And the only Tiger in the lineup that didn't join in the hitting was Pudge Rodriguez, with an 0-4 outing.
Even though it was against arguably Chicago's weakest starting pitcher, Jose Contreras, a victory is a victory.
Recipe for disaster? Most times, yes. But somehow they pulled it out.
The bullpen was solid (with the exception of Jason Grilli), only allowing seven baserunners to reach in all nine innings. And the only Tiger in the lineup that didn't join in the hitting was Pudge Rodriguez, with an 0-4 outing.
Even though it was against arguably Chicago's weakest starting pitcher, Jose Contreras, a victory is a victory.
Thursday, April 10, 2008
If it Isn't One Thing it's Another
One of the main problems the Tigers have run into this early in the season is lack of patience. This has led to quick outings for mediocre pitchers, and lots of low batting averages and OBPs.
Patience wasn't a problem today.
Seven walks were taken, and two Tigers batters were hit by pitches (both by veteran knuckleballer Tim Wakefield). But the theme of the young season is where there is a positive, there are plenty of negatives. Tigers pitching issued nine walks of their own (seven coming from the bullpen), and eight of those came around to score.
Just as the game seemed out of reach, Julian Tavarez entered. Two walks and a hit later, the bases were loaded. Singles from Brandon Inge and Ivan Rodriguez scored two to trim the lead to 8-5. In a bases loaded, no out situation, Gary Sheffield grounded in to a crippling double play. Through all of it, Marcus Thames was allowed to score from third to make the score 8-6.
Then in came Jonathan Paplebon.
He quickly disposed of Magglio Ordonez to end the threat in the 8th.
Just as the hope seemed to be overflowing since the game was in reach, the Red Sox (or Tigers bullpen, whichever you choose) exploded. The Sox scored four more to stretch their lead to 12-6.
The 9th was a formality from there.
1-8
Oh, and a decent sidenote would be that Magglio Ordonez got his first home run of the season. That's pretty cool I suppose (not really).
Patience wasn't a problem today.
Seven walks were taken, and two Tigers batters were hit by pitches (both by veteran knuckleballer Tim Wakefield). But the theme of the young season is where there is a positive, there are plenty of negatives. Tigers pitching issued nine walks of their own (seven coming from the bullpen), and eight of those came around to score.
Just as the game seemed out of reach, Julian Tavarez entered. Two walks and a hit later, the bases were loaded. Singles from Brandon Inge and Ivan Rodriguez scored two to trim the lead to 8-5. In a bases loaded, no out situation, Gary Sheffield grounded in to a crippling double play. Through all of it, Marcus Thames was allowed to score from third to make the score 8-6.
Then in came Jonathan Paplebon.
He quickly disposed of Magglio Ordonez to end the threat in the 8th.
Just as the hope seemed to be overflowing since the game was in reach, the Red Sox (or Tigers bullpen, whichever you choose) exploded. The Sox scored four more to stretch their lead to 12-6.
The 9th was a formality from there.
1-8
Oh, and a decent sidenote would be that Magglio Ordonez got his first home run of the season. That's pretty cool I suppose (not really).
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
About Darn Time
You can't lose em all.
You certainly wouldn't think that's the case with what people and the media have said. Nevertheless, the Detroit Tigers got their first win today.
While not happening exactly how it was supposed to, the Tigers scored 7 runs off of Jon Lester and the scrubs (no Papelbon or Okajima) of the Red Sox bullpen. It wasn't the usual suspects with Edgar Renteria, Brandon Inge, and Marcus Thames providing the bulk of the offense. Carlos Guillen added a home run late to put the game fully out of reach. The patience was a welcome respite from the aggressiveness as the Tigers took 8 walks in the game.
The pitching was spotty as Jeremy Bonderman had his usual one earned run, over 1.5 WHIP performance. He only had two strikeouts, but got out of the jams that he got himself into. Bobby Seay provided another excellent inning, and the rest of the bullpen held the fort until Todd Jones made his way to the mound.
There is nothing more terrifying than a Todd Jones save. Two outs, bases loaded with a 7-2 score, and David Ortiz on deck. A Kevin Youkilis popup. Thank god.
At the very least, something to build on.
The series slows down tomorrow as Tim Wakefield goes for the Sox, and Nate Robertson takes the hill for the Tigers. Nate will look to lower his 9.00 ERA, but Boston may not be the place to do that. Wakefield is as inconsistent as they come (knuckleballers), so at the very least it'll be an entertaining game.
You certainly wouldn't think that's the case with what people and the media have said. Nevertheless, the Detroit Tigers got their first win today.
While not happening exactly how it was supposed to, the Tigers scored 7 runs off of Jon Lester and the scrubs (no Papelbon or Okajima) of the Red Sox bullpen. It wasn't the usual suspects with Edgar Renteria, Brandon Inge, and Marcus Thames providing the bulk of the offense. Carlos Guillen added a home run late to put the game fully out of reach. The patience was a welcome respite from the aggressiveness as the Tigers took 8 walks in the game.
The pitching was spotty as Jeremy Bonderman had his usual one earned run, over 1.5 WHIP performance. He only had two strikeouts, but got out of the jams that he got himself into. Bobby Seay provided another excellent inning, and the rest of the bullpen held the fort until Todd Jones made his way to the mound.
There is nothing more terrifying than a Todd Jones save. Two outs, bases loaded with a 7-2 score, and David Ortiz on deck. A Kevin Youkilis popup. Thank god.
At the very least, something to build on.
The series slows down tomorrow as Tim Wakefield goes for the Sox, and Nate Robertson takes the hill for the Tigers. Nate will look to lower his 9.00 ERA, but Boston may not be the place to do that. Wakefield is as inconsistent as they come (knuckleballers), so at the very least it'll be an entertaining game.
Monday, April 7, 2008
Trip Report #1
The day didn't really start off all that hot.
We hit the road around 2:30pm or so, so we could get to the ballpark by 5:00 or 5:30 and catch some batting practice. Everyone was hungry so we thought we'd get something to eat at a sitdown type joint. Arnie's was the choice.
It was the wrong one.
The service was horrible, the food took forever, and they even got my friend Josh's order wrong. We left there at almost 4:00!!
The drive wasn't too bad. Good conversation, and it actually went rather quickly.
We got to Comerica Park around 6:30 or so, and my girlfriend Stephanie was taking it and, and taking some photos. She'd never been to Comerica before, and it was only my friend Chris' second time. Josh and I, however, are grizzled veterans.
We trolled around, and looked for a Brandon Inge jersey (before he gets traded) for Josh. He couldn't find any replicas and wasn't really up for paying 130 dollars, so he called that search off early.
After walking around the concourse some more, we decided to go to our seats and check out the view. Only being three rows from the field, in the right field grandstand, is a good place to be. We managed to miss the Tigers taking BP, but saw the White Sox probably only 15 minutes out from finishing theirs.
It was scary. It seemed like every guy that stepped up was Hank Aaron or Willie Mays. Jim Thome took three different trips, and crushed every. single. time. Nick Swisher, Paul Konerko, Jermaine Dye. All of them. It certainly didn't seem like a good omen.
And it wasn't.
The game was mainly comprised of the Tigers being impatient some more (sans Carlos Guillen), and making another pitcher look like Cy Young.
Justin Verlander couldn't get his control together all day, and it seemed like every hitter had 3 balls on them before they knew it. Nick Swisher led the game off with a Solo shot. Verlander held it together for a while, but got absolutely touched up in the 6th inning. He left with the bases loaded, and in came Aquilino Lopez.
Hello bases clearing double from Nick Swisher (it may have even been a triple).
Lopez went on to allow another of the same, and before we knew it we were down 13-1.
By the 8th inning, it was so ridiculous that we didn't even bother heckling. We just made jokes for the remainder.
Either way, we still had a good time. There will be plenty more games this season, and it can only go up from here.
We hit the road around 2:30pm or so, so we could get to the ballpark by 5:00 or 5:30 and catch some batting practice. Everyone was hungry so we thought we'd get something to eat at a sitdown type joint. Arnie's was the choice.
It was the wrong one.
The service was horrible, the food took forever, and they even got my friend Josh's order wrong. We left there at almost 4:00!!
The drive wasn't too bad. Good conversation, and it actually went rather quickly.
We got to Comerica Park around 6:30 or so, and my girlfriend Stephanie was taking it and, and taking some photos. She'd never been to Comerica before, and it was only my friend Chris' second time. Josh and I, however, are grizzled veterans.
We trolled around, and looked for a Brandon Inge jersey (before he gets traded) for Josh. He couldn't find any replicas and wasn't really up for paying 130 dollars, so he called that search off early.
After walking around the concourse some more, we decided to go to our seats and check out the view. Only being three rows from the field, in the right field grandstand, is a good place to be. We managed to miss the Tigers taking BP, but saw the White Sox probably only 15 minutes out from finishing theirs.
It was scary. It seemed like every guy that stepped up was Hank Aaron or Willie Mays. Jim Thome took three different trips, and crushed every. single. time. Nick Swisher, Paul Konerko, Jermaine Dye. All of them. It certainly didn't seem like a good omen.
And it wasn't.
The game was mainly comprised of the Tigers being impatient some more (sans Carlos Guillen), and making another pitcher look like Cy Young.
Justin Verlander couldn't get his control together all day, and it seemed like every hitter had 3 balls on them before they knew it. Nick Swisher led the game off with a Solo shot. Verlander held it together for a while, but got absolutely touched up in the 6th inning. He left with the bases loaded, and in came Aquilino Lopez.
Hello bases clearing double from Nick Swisher (it may have even been a triple).
Lopez went on to allow another of the same, and before we knew it we were down 13-1.
By the 8th inning, it was so ridiculous that we didn't even bother heckling. We just made jokes for the remainder.
Either way, we still had a good time. There will be plenty more games this season, and it can only go up from here.
Friday, April 4, 2008
More of the Same
Tigers Wish List:
1. Strong Outing from Jeremy Bonderman
2. Offensive Awakening
3. Healthy Lineup
How does 0-3 sound? Sounds exactly like the Tigers record up to this point, actually.
None of those calls were answered, as it was more of the same from the boys of Motown. Bonderman went six innings, but allowed four earned runs, with two coming from the longball. The offense did nothing, again. To round it out Miguel Cabrera was scratched before the game with a strained quad, and Gary Sheffield tore a ligament in his ring finger on a slide.
Zack Greinke was phenomenal, only allowing a HR in seven innings pitched. Jeremy Bonderman had similar stats, with the exception of only giving up one more hit. The difference between the two was the severity of the home runs. Bonderman allowed three earned runs on two longballs, while Greinke just had the one solo shot. Aquilino Lopez came in for the remainder of the game, and while he only allowed 3 hits in 2.1 innings, he was hit VERY hard. Comerica is a kind park in that respect.
And in the midst of a lineup baffled by Zack Greinke, there was a shining light.
He goes by the name of Brandon Inge
Wait, what? Yes, I said Brandon Inge. You can stop laughing now. A single, a walk, and a home run. Sounds kinda like a line Sheffield or Cabrera should be having, doesn't it?
Other than Mr. Inge, it was a whole lot of stranded baserunners. Better than yesterday, of course. But when you're still not scoring any runs, it really doesn't matter in the scope of things (and no, that doesn't lend any credence to the "clogging the bases" philosophy).
The day was topped off by Gary Sheffield sliding head-first into second base in an attempt to make the Royals pay for a fielding error. He was tagged out, and also managed to tear a ligament in his finger. He says he's going to try to play through the injury. If last year is any indication, he shouldn't.
The most positive thing that will likely come from this day is that it's something for Brandon Inge to build upon, and furthers his trade value. David Dombrowski can only hope.
1. Strong Outing from Jeremy Bonderman
2. Offensive Awakening
3. Healthy Lineup
How does 0-3 sound? Sounds exactly like the Tigers record up to this point, actually.
None of those calls were answered, as it was more of the same from the boys of Motown. Bonderman went six innings, but allowed four earned runs, with two coming from the longball. The offense did nothing, again. To round it out Miguel Cabrera was scratched before the game with a strained quad, and Gary Sheffield tore a ligament in his ring finger on a slide.
Zack Greinke was phenomenal, only allowing a HR in seven innings pitched. Jeremy Bonderman had similar stats, with the exception of only giving up one more hit. The difference between the two was the severity of the home runs. Bonderman allowed three earned runs on two longballs, while Greinke just had the one solo shot. Aquilino Lopez came in for the remainder of the game, and while he only allowed 3 hits in 2.1 innings, he was hit VERY hard. Comerica is a kind park in that respect.
And in the midst of a lineup baffled by Zack Greinke, there was a shining light.
He goes by the name of Brandon Inge
Wait, what? Yes, I said Brandon Inge. You can stop laughing now. A single, a walk, and a home run. Sounds kinda like a line Sheffield or Cabrera should be having, doesn't it?
Other than Mr. Inge, it was a whole lot of stranded baserunners. Better than yesterday, of course. But when you're still not scoring any runs, it really doesn't matter in the scope of things (and no, that doesn't lend any credence to the "clogging the bases" philosophy).
The day was topped off by Gary Sheffield sliding head-first into second base in an attempt to make the Royals pay for a fielding error. He was tagged out, and also managed to tear a ligament in his finger. He says he's going to try to play through the injury. If last year is any indication, he shouldn't.
The most positive thing that will likely come from this day is that it's something for Brandon Inge to build upon, and furthers his trade value. David Dombrowski can only hope.
Thursday, April 3, 2008
Humble Beginnings
Tuesday had the makings of a good day.
Brian Bannister was on the hill for the Royals. A man who was projected to have a large comedown this season after a breakout rookie campaign. A man who doesn't blow opponents away, but rather out-thinks and hits his spots. A man who throws strikes, so hitters know that they're going to have things to hit through the course of the game.
Kenny Rogers was making his first start of the year. With this being possibly his last season, and with the urgency to not start the season with 2 losses, he had to come up with a solid start.
And he did.
The neighborhood was safe until Mark Grudzielanek, Jose Guillen, and Billy Butler doubled in succession in the 6th inning to break a scoreless tie and put the Royals up 2-0.
Unfortunately for Kenny (and everyone else in Detroit), Mr. Bannister proved everyone wrong and was more than up to the task. Consistently throwing first pitch strikes, and having the Tigers guessing all day long.
There was some hope when Zach Miner came into the game and cruised through one inning. But his second was problematic. With men on first and third with no outs, he got two straight Ks. Just as it seemed like trouble was averted, he allowed both runners to score, and put the game out of reach 4-0.
Being that the Royals bullpen is much improved, the rest was a formality. Leo Nunez came in, and even though he's a vastly different pitcher than Bannister, it was more of the same. Joakim Soria then entered, and struck out the bottom of the order with ease.
Of course it wasn't ALL negative. Edgar Renteria eased the feather further into David Dombrowski's cap by providing ALL of the Tigers offense for the day, with a whole 3 singles. Aside from an 8th inning Carlos Guillen walk, there was NOTHING else for the Tigers offensively.
So the series rides on the flu-ridden Jeremy Bonderman, and Zack Greinke will be eyeing a start of the season sweep for the boys from KC.
Forecast in Detroit, Rainbows and sunshine.
Brian Bannister was on the hill for the Royals. A man who was projected to have a large comedown this season after a breakout rookie campaign. A man who doesn't blow opponents away, but rather out-thinks and hits his spots. A man who throws strikes, so hitters know that they're going to have things to hit through the course of the game.
Kenny Rogers was making his first start of the year. With this being possibly his last season, and with the urgency to not start the season with 2 losses, he had to come up with a solid start.
And he did.
The neighborhood was safe until Mark Grudzielanek, Jose Guillen, and Billy Butler doubled in succession in the 6th inning to break a scoreless tie and put the Royals up 2-0.
Unfortunately for Kenny (and everyone else in Detroit), Mr. Bannister proved everyone wrong and was more than up to the task. Consistently throwing first pitch strikes, and having the Tigers guessing all day long.
There was some hope when Zach Miner came into the game and cruised through one inning. But his second was problematic. With men on first and third with no outs, he got two straight Ks. Just as it seemed like trouble was averted, he allowed both runners to score, and put the game out of reach 4-0.
Being that the Royals bullpen is much improved, the rest was a formality. Leo Nunez came in, and even though he's a vastly different pitcher than Bannister, it was more of the same. Joakim Soria then entered, and struck out the bottom of the order with ease.
Of course it wasn't ALL negative. Edgar Renteria eased the feather further into David Dombrowski's cap by providing ALL of the Tigers offense for the day, with a whole 3 singles. Aside from an 8th inning Carlos Guillen walk, there was NOTHING else for the Tigers offensively.
So the series rides on the flu-ridden Jeremy Bonderman, and Zack Greinke will be eyeing a start of the season sweep for the boys from KC.
Forecast in Detroit, Rainbows and sunshine.
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