The home field magic continues, and the Tigers started the second half (which is much less than half, if you must quibble) on a strong note, as Justin Verlander threw 7 strong, with only 4 hits and 2 walks against 10 strikeouts. There was a time a few years ago where there was an ongoing discussion here about whether or not Verlander was an “ace” (whatever that means); 2013-2014 saw him with ERA/WHIP numbers of 3.36 / 1.315 and 4.54 / 1.398 (that 3.36 is pretty lucky with a 1.315 WHIP), and guys like Max Scherzer and even Anibal Sanchez (!) looked better. But here we are now with Justin Verlander looking once again like the ace of the staff.
He could have easily had a shutout, If Moya were an actual, you know, outfielder. He really does look awful out there. JD Martinez can’t return soon enough. And Moya isn’t really making up for it with his bat any more: since June 30 he is 3-for-26 with 15 strikeouts (eat your heart out, Upton). He is starting to look a little Hessman-ish.
Pelfrey again looks like he gets the short end of the run-support straw: the Tigers have career numbers against Danny Duffy ranging from mediocre to sub-Mendoza. Kinsler, 3-for-20? Cabrera 6-for-24? (and slumping).
Today’s Duff Luck Lineup:
- Kinsler, 2B
- Maybin, CF
- Cabrera, 1B
- V Martinez, DH
- Castellanos, 3B
- Aviles, RF
- McCann, C
- Collins, LF
- Iglesias, SS
how can you not have someone warming up when either Pelfrey or Sanchez start a game!!!!!!..
When either start a game, the other one and Lowe should also both be warming up. That way maybe you could get all three over with the same game.
How good has Maybin been this season! What a pleasant surprise.
Cabrera is in a real slump. As Kevin said, he will be fine. Until then though, he is a rally-killer.
Yes, followed by another disappointment from Miggy. Should they start to consider moving Miggy down to 6th in the batting order?
So much for Pelfrey. So who should walk the plank first, Pelfrey, Sanchez, or Lowe?
one of many things that is consistent with the Reign of Ausmus is this is a quit game. They know Pelfrey will give up runs and now that its 5-1 its just too hard to battle back. We have seen this 30-40 times. Led by Miggy the guys will swing at everything. Swing very early in the count and get this loss over with….Miggy is the worst in these kind of games. When Brad finally leaves this will be one of his trademarks to me…
Martinez put in 0 effort into four AB
why waste Ryan today..this game is a perfect Lowe/ Sanchez game..another mark of Brad..he’s clueless on the use of his pitchers!
Nice of the Tigers to honor Inge who couldn’t hit a lick, but played hard everyday and was in the Top 10 All time defensive players in Tigers history!
The WWE has what they call an I quit match….that was the Tigers today..Unfortunately they IQUIT often…
By the way isn’t it painful watching McCann bat!!!
Well the BIG GUNS are 1 for 8 tonight, weak ground single. Very productive.
Tony from the effort Miggy and Victor put into their AB I am shocked they even had one crummy hit!
Jud, maybe Miggy is hunting Pokemans at the plate.