Playing Texas could not have come at a better time on the Tigers' schedule than right now.
Yes, it is true that the Tigers have been playing better baseball in just about every area since that horrible start. But, playing Texas accomplished two things in the first two games on this series.
1. Gaining Confidence Offensively and Scoring a lot of Runs.
19 Runs tonight. But, the most interesting stat of the night is that the Tigers are second in the American League in taking walks; the same Tigers that employ Pudge Rodriguez and Brandon Inge. That proves they are seeing the ball very well, and that leads to a lot of hits as well as walks. It is also a sign of the respect this lineup generates. If this trend continues, the Tigers will score a lot of runs and win a lot of games.
Note: Guillen had 5 RBI's tonight; looks like that team MVP prediction is looking very good.
2. Rest Important Starters while Playing a Weaker Team.
The Tigers aren't panicking, and why should they? Texas was posting terrible pitchers against them and has the worst record in the American League. This allows them to win without the services of Polanco and Sheffield.
Just a quick note on the exceptional job by the bullpen tonight. Maybe they all heard that Francisco Cruceta pitched 3 spectacular, hitless innings in Toledo and they are fighting for their jobs; but regardless, they pitched exceptionally. 1.2 Innings from Clay Rapada including getting a groundball double play to get him out of a Kenny-created Jam. (And 2 strike outs the following inning). Also, Lopez and Grilli (I can't believe it either) did fantastic jobs. 2 innings and 3 strike outs from Lopez. Looks like he isn't going anywhere.
I will be sure to post a reaction to the bullpen situation with Galarraga and Cruceta most likely moving into it in the near future. Also, I will be doing a post on whole Guillen - Cabrera - Inge position situation, as well as a reaction to Ken Rosenthal's article about that very same subject. But not tonight, its late!
Go Tigers.
Playing Texas was Just what the Doctor Ordered
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3 comments:
everyone knew they will score. the real question is if the pitching can withstand a whole season and play-offs.
The Starting pitching is certainly a concern. As of right now, nobody is really standing out. But with guys like Galaraga and Lopez waiting to be the 5th starter, it shouldnt be a huge worry.
As for Brandon, I deal with that in another post.
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