By now, most of you have likely heard of the freep article regarding the University of Michigan's alleged NCAA violations. To quickly sum up, a handful of players (likely 5 or 6) told the Free Press, indepedently and anonymously, that Rich Rodriguez and his staff conducted mandatory practices that extended over the maximum number of hours permitted by the NCAA.
I imagine most people are not surprised by this story. The University of Michigan is the winningest football program in the nation. They obviously consider themselves the "leaders and best." Since 2000, they've lost 3 or more games every season but one. Living in Ann Arbor during this time, I regularly heard the complaints. The fans were not happy. They considered their team to be elite. Finishing out of the AP's top 5, not going to a BCS bowl, and routinely losing to Ohio State was not acceptable. Most fans were tired of Lloyd Carr's antiquated system and gruff-old-man personality. They wanted to compete with the Floridas and LSUs and USCs of the world.
So, in came Rich Rodriguez. I listened to his initial press conference. He was extremely likable. He talked about moving his family, bringing in most of his coaches, implementing the spread. But the dude's tenure at UM has been nothing short of a disaster. First, he had the massive controversy with his ex-employer, West Virginia, suing him for $4million. Then a handful of players transfered, and one player missed the family atmosphere of Lloyd Carr, saying RichRod was "more of a business." Then last season, RichRod kicked one of his players off the team for initiating a coke deal. Now, he has former players citing NCAA violations. And, worst of all (for UM fans), the team finished 3-9, missing a bowl game for the first time in my lifetime.
Yet, Michigan fans wanted change. They wanted a big time program. They got all that and more. Did RichRod break the rules? My guess is that he probably did. Yet, I imagine he's been doing the same thing for his entire coaching career. And he probably learned the system from his mentor, Tommy Bowden. Likely, all the big programs break the rules.
College football has reached a breaking point. So much is required of these players that they're not really students. Balancing football and academics is next-to-impossible for these 18, 19 year old kids. Something's gotta give, and it's almost always the studies. That's evidently not a big deal for most kids. But it was for a handful of UM players.
The University is now conducting an "investigation" into the NCAA violations. If they go public that the football program did in fact break the rules, RichRod will be fired. But the ramifications should go farther than that. College football needs to recede a bit. The teams need to let the student-athletes be students-athletes, not professionals. They need to play less games, less bowls. Unfortunately, there is so much money tied up in college football that change will only go in one direction - more, more, more! The UM scandal may open up some eyes and perhaps cause the Athletic Directors to rethink their priorities. That's my hope at least. But my brain tells me money always wins.
Monday, August 31, 2009
Friday, August 28, 2009
The Streak
I suppose I should give credit where credit is due. As John rightfully pointed out after my last post, the Tigers did end their streak. They took 2 of 3 from the 1st place Angels and finally won a road series after 10 straight series losses.
The problem is that every time I praise the Tigers they tend to lay an egg the next game. It's the thatballdontlie curse. Or perhaps it's simply that the Tigers are incredibly inconsistent, which is why I always reference Inge. Depending on how the moons align, Brandon Inge either strikes out four times (on 12 pitches) or ends the game with a walk-off home run. Prior to this season, there was no more polarizing Detroit Tiger than Brandon Inge. His performance this year has further cemented that status. Hitting and fielding like an all-star in the 1st half and then plummeting to a .164 average in the 2nd? He's the 2009 Detroit Tigers! Impossible to pin down. Impossible to predict.
How do they lose 2 of 3 to the hapless A's (and Jack Cust) then put 10 up on the Angels the next night? I suppose that's the nature of sports and why we find it so fascinating.
So, yes, the streak is over, and the Tigers deserve credit for performing well in a road series. All the starters did pretty well, except Verlander who somehow lost focus after the offense scored the 10 runs. Maybe those long, half-inning layoffs really affect their arms? Now they're back home with a few against the Devil Rays, another decent team. With a good home stand, the Tigers could put a strangle-hold on their first place lead. The White Sox haven't helped themselves in recent weeks, but the Twins, to the surprise of no one, are inching back into contention (4.5 games back).
The problem is that every time I praise the Tigers they tend to lay an egg the next game. It's the thatballdontlie curse. Or perhaps it's simply that the Tigers are incredibly inconsistent, which is why I always reference Inge. Depending on how the moons align, Brandon Inge either strikes out four times (on 12 pitches) or ends the game with a walk-off home run. Prior to this season, there was no more polarizing Detroit Tiger than Brandon Inge. His performance this year has further cemented that status. Hitting and fielding like an all-star in the 1st half and then plummeting to a .164 average in the 2nd? He's the 2009 Detroit Tigers! Impossible to pin down. Impossible to predict.
How do they lose 2 of 3 to the hapless A's (and Jack Cust) then put 10 up on the Angels the next night? I suppose that's the nature of sports and why we find it so fascinating.
So, yes, the streak is over, and the Tigers deserve credit for performing well in a road series. All the starters did pretty well, except Verlander who somehow lost focus after the offense scored the 10 runs. Maybe those long, half-inning layoffs really affect their arms? Now they're back home with a few against the Devil Rays, another decent team. With a good home stand, the Tigers could put a strangle-hold on their first place lead. The White Sox haven't helped themselves in recent weeks, but the Twins, to the surprise of no one, are inching back into contention (4.5 games back).
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Nate's back
Very strange development. The Tigers called up Nate Robertson and sent Galarraga to the Mud Hens. The Tigers claim this is only a 10-day assignment for Galarraga, and that he's been suffering from an elbow inflammation for three months. This is a rather convenient explanation for Galarraga's troubles since May. The fact is that Galarraga has sprinkled in brilliant performances throughout his generally subpar year. In July, Galarraga posted a 3.29 ERA, and, in his last two starts, he gave up only four runs in 11.1 innings. So, why send him down now?
As for Nate, he's fared well at Toledo. After five starts, Nate's got a 1.89 ERA, but it's still just Toledo. Not since early 2007 has Nate exhibited the stuff that earned him a ticket to the majors. Watching Nate has been like watching the Lions - you know they're going to let you down; you just don't know when. My only guess is that this move is about money. Nate is earning $10million this season, and Dombrowski wants to get some return on that investment. Galarraga's netting less than $0.5million, so perhaps he's more expendable. I just feel this move is a major risk in the middle of the pennant race. Nate will be starting this Saturday against Tampa Bay on national TV. The last time Nate was on national TV was the '06 playoffs. Let's hope we get the '06 Robertson!
By the way, thought this pic was pretty telling of the Tigers' offense this season:
As for Nate, he's fared well at Toledo. After five starts, Nate's got a 1.89 ERA, but it's still just Toledo. Not since early 2007 has Nate exhibited the stuff that earned him a ticket to the majors. Watching Nate has been like watching the Lions - you know they're going to let you down; you just don't know when. My only guess is that this move is about money. Nate is earning $10million this season, and Dombrowski wants to get some return on that investment. Galarraga's netting less than $0.5million, so perhaps he's more expendable. I just feel this move is a major risk in the middle of the pennant race. Nate will be starting this Saturday against Tampa Bay on national TV. The last time Nate was on national TV was the '06 playoffs. Let's hope we get the '06 Robertson!
By the way, thought this pic was pretty telling of the Tigers' offense this season:
Monday, August 24, 2009
Perfect 10
It was the sort of game you'd expect from a team playing out the string, not a team battling for the playoffs. The Tigers were thoroughly outclassed - in every facet - by the last place team in the AL West. Facing Brett Tomko, who, two weeks ago, was a 36-year-old minor leaguer, the Tigers opened up with a blistering Granderson home run. Then Tomko easily set down 18 of the next 20 batters. It wasn't until the 7th inning that the Tigers pushed one more run across the plate, but by then it was too late. A's designated hitter, Jack Cust, became the latest to earn the title "Tiger killer". He was 6 for 9 during the week, with 5 RBIs and two home runs against Porcello.
The one Tiger shining moment was a 2-run home run by Cabrera in the 8th (his 200th). That cut the lead to 5-4, but the Tigers followed that momentum-turning knock with two straight strikeouts (courtesy of Inge and underwhelming Huff). Then the Tiger relievers let Oakland tack-on four more runs. Game over. 9-4. With the loss, the Tigers have now lost 10 consecutive road series. Wow.
People often wonder why Tiger fans are so cynical. This game is why. The Tigers had the perfect opportunity to gain another game on Chicago, win their first road series, and, in general, beat down a losing team with a journeyman pitcher on the mound. Instead, that journeyman needed just 87 pitches to strike out 8, and they had to take him out because his arm wasn't stretched out. He's been pitching in relief all season!
Now the Tigers must fly to Anaheim to face a much better team. I thought the Tigers may have turned a corner in the Bosox series, but this meager showing against the A's tells me otherwise. The bats are still dead, and the bullpen is still shaky. Only two hitters in the starting lineup were above the league average of .266 (Cabrera and Avila). While Inge remains the best option at 3rd base, his dropoff in production has killed the offense. He hit .182 in July and is now at .164 in August. Without Inge's power in the bottom half of the order, the Tigers have trouble scoring more than 1 run. He and Cabrera were clearly the catalysts in the 1st half of the season. And nobody has stepped up to carry the load.
Dombrowski tried to help by bringing in Huff and Avila. Now it's up to the players. Can they turn it around? Starts tonight with Verlander against Jered Weaver.
The one Tiger shining moment was a 2-run home run by Cabrera in the 8th (his 200th). That cut the lead to 5-4, but the Tigers followed that momentum-turning knock with two straight strikeouts (courtesy of Inge and underwhelming Huff). Then the Tiger relievers let Oakland tack-on four more runs. Game over. 9-4. With the loss, the Tigers have now lost 10 consecutive road series. Wow.
People often wonder why Tiger fans are so cynical. This game is why. The Tigers had the perfect opportunity to gain another game on Chicago, win their first road series, and, in general, beat down a losing team with a journeyman pitcher on the mound. Instead, that journeyman needed just 87 pitches to strike out 8, and they had to take him out because his arm wasn't stretched out. He's been pitching in relief all season!
Now the Tigers must fly to Anaheim to face a much better team. I thought the Tigers may have turned a corner in the Bosox series, but this meager showing against the A's tells me otherwise. The bats are still dead, and the bullpen is still shaky. Only two hitters in the starting lineup were above the league average of .266 (Cabrera and Avila). While Inge remains the best option at 3rd base, his dropoff in production has killed the offense. He hit .182 in July and is now at .164 in August. Without Inge's power in the bottom half of the order, the Tigers have trouble scoring more than 1 run. He and Cabrera were clearly the catalysts in the 1st half of the season. And nobody has stepped up to carry the load.
Dombrowski tried to help by bringing in Huff and Avila. Now it's up to the players. Can they turn it around? Starts tonight with Verlander against Jered Weaver.
Friday, August 21, 2009
My stars! A sacrifice fly!
Just a friggin' great game yesterday. Jarrod Washburn, facing his former team, got lit up once again. In his four starts with the Tigers, Washburn fared poorly in three. Is it time to panic? Not yet. Let's wait until he gets eight starts under his belt. Yesterday, the Mariners jumped on him early... and dramatically. Courtesy of three home runs, the Mariner's enjoyed a 4-0 lead in the 4th. The Tigers clawed back to 4-2, but then the Mariners homered again to make it 6-2.
It was not looking good, but a rain delay changed the Tigers' fortunes. With the bases loaded in the bottom of the 6th, the rain began to pour down. 58minutes later, the game resumed. Aubrey Huff grounded out to score one run. Then, with two outs, Alex Avila singled home two more to make it 6-5.
Failing to capitalize on even more baserunners in the 7th and 8th, the Tigers' relievers (Miner and Seay) at least kept Seattle off the board. Still a run down in the bottom of the 9th, Carlos Guillen led off with a walk. Raburn, with 3 hits on the day, popped out. Then Cabrera doubled down the right-field line. Guillen advanced to third. The Mariners decided to load the bases by walking Maggs.
Up stepped Brandon Inge - perhaps the most clutch Tiger during the first half of the season - though more of a strike-out candidate in the 2nd half. Ol' Brandon looped a pop fly into left-center. It was deep enough for Carlos to try to tag-up. Every Mariner outfielder has a rocket-arm, and this play was destined to be close. The throw to the catcher was directly on line. Carlos, no doubt sensing the close play at the plate, opted not to slide. Instead, he ran directly into the catcher, who was blocking home plate. The ball arrived slightly ahead of Carlos, but the impact of the collision jarred the ball loose. Safe! Great play by Guillen, and it tied the game. Cabrera advanced to third.
The next batter was Clete Thomas. Quickly falling behind 0-2, Clete slowly worked the count full. Then, he turned on a fastball and whipped it over the first baseman's head into right field. Cabrera bounded home and made a B-line to Clete. It was soon a mob scene, with Clete's 2nd walk-off hit in a month. Just a great win by the Tigers and so uncharacteristic. They won the game with a sacrifice fly and super-clutch hitting. And it was against a good team and a good pitcher - David Aardsma (2.43 ERA), who'd been lights-out until recently.
Now, it's a six-game road trip to Oakland and Anaheim. The Tigers know they must improve on the road. Said Leyland, "It'll have to change, or we won't win anything." Oakland beat up the Tigers during their last visit, and Anaheim is simply one of the elite. It's now late August - crunch time. It will be interesting to see how the Tigers respond. They definitely raised their level of play against Boston (despite winning just one). Let's hope it continues.
It was not looking good, but a rain delay changed the Tigers' fortunes. With the bases loaded in the bottom of the 6th, the rain began to pour down. 58minutes later, the game resumed. Aubrey Huff grounded out to score one run. Then, with two outs, Alex Avila singled home two more to make it 6-5.
Failing to capitalize on even more baserunners in the 7th and 8th, the Tigers' relievers (Miner and Seay) at least kept Seattle off the board. Still a run down in the bottom of the 9th, Carlos Guillen led off with a walk. Raburn, with 3 hits on the day, popped out. Then Cabrera doubled down the right-field line. Guillen advanced to third. The Mariners decided to load the bases by walking Maggs.
Up stepped Brandon Inge - perhaps the most clutch Tiger during the first half of the season - though more of a strike-out candidate in the 2nd half. Ol' Brandon looped a pop fly into left-center. It was deep enough for Carlos to try to tag-up. Every Mariner outfielder has a rocket-arm, and this play was destined to be close. The throw to the catcher was directly on line. Carlos, no doubt sensing the close play at the plate, opted not to slide. Instead, he ran directly into the catcher, who was blocking home plate. The ball arrived slightly ahead of Carlos, but the impact of the collision jarred the ball loose. Safe! Great play by Guillen, and it tied the game. Cabrera advanced to third.
The next batter was Clete Thomas. Quickly falling behind 0-2, Clete slowly worked the count full. Then, he turned on a fastball and whipped it over the first baseman's head into right field. Cabrera bounded home and made a B-line to Clete. It was soon a mob scene, with Clete's 2nd walk-off hit in a month. Just a great win by the Tigers and so uncharacteristic. They won the game with a sacrifice fly and super-clutch hitting. And it was against a good team and a good pitcher - David Aardsma (2.43 ERA), who'd been lights-out until recently.
Now, it's a six-game road trip to Oakland and Anaheim. The Tigers know they must improve on the road. Said Leyland, "It'll have to change, or we won't win anything." Oakland beat up the Tigers during their last visit, and Anaheim is simply one of the elite. It's now late August - crunch time. It will be interesting to see how the Tigers respond. They definitely raised their level of play against Boston (despite winning just one). Let's hope it continues.
Thursday, August 20, 2009
The Magglio Dilemma
By now, everybody knows that Magglio will be due $18million next season if he reaches 1080 plate appearances ('08 and '09 seasons combined). To date, he's at 1004. With 43 games remaining, Magglio should have no trouble getting reaching that goal. For a guy who was a crowd favorite a few months ago, some fans can't send him packing soon enough.
The Tigers were an awful team when they signed Magglio back in '04, so they had to overpay. The marriage benefited both parties. Magglio made a ton of cash, and the Tigers ascended from bottom-feeder to occasional contender. Now that Magglio has slowed down, the fans don't think he's worth the cash. But baseball ain't like the NFL. You can't just cut a player. Well, I suppose you could, but you'd get sued. For instance, if the Tigers cut Magglio today, his agent (Steve Boras) would file a grievance. The arbiter would see that Magglio is hitting a respectable .277, and a decent .281 with RISP (better than everyone but Cabrera and Polanco). The Tigers would have to prove that his release was strictly baseball-related, and the stats don't back that up. So, they're stuck with each other.
I also believe it would kill morale if the Tigers cut Maggs. He's a pretty popular guy in the clubhouse, and Cabrera, especially, looks up to him as a trail-blazing Venezuelan. Now that Maggs is swinging a better bat, Leyland should suck it up and play him as the regular right fielder. The $18million guaranteed next season is a way better investment than Bonderman's $12.5M, D-train's $12M, and Nate's $10M. Those dudes aren't even on the friggin' roster! Those awful contracts will likely kill the Tigers chances of pursuing any free agent. And Verlander and Edwin Jackson will likely get massive pay increases next season too, so the payroll will be going up. For poor Mike Ilitch, the end is nowhere in sight.
But all will be forgiven if they keep winning.
More Tigers
Granderson's troubles continue. In the month of August, Curtis is hitting .246 with 1 HR and 4 RBIs. He's hitless in the last three games. Inge is no better. Since July 1, Inge is a dreadful .181, with 5 HR and 13 RBIs. In the last ten games, ol' Brandon notched a meager 3 hits. And then there's Laird. Gerald has 7 hits in the entire month of August, good for a .184 average. No homers and 1 measly RBI. Only 25 RBIs for the season. Folks, that's some awful hitting.
How the heck are they in first? Not only are they in first, but they've maintained first place for over 3 months! Crazy.
The Tigers were an awful team when they signed Magglio back in '04, so they had to overpay. The marriage benefited both parties. Magglio made a ton of cash, and the Tigers ascended from bottom-feeder to occasional contender. Now that Magglio has slowed down, the fans don't think he's worth the cash. But baseball ain't like the NFL. You can't just cut a player. Well, I suppose you could, but you'd get sued. For instance, if the Tigers cut Magglio today, his agent (Steve Boras) would file a grievance. The arbiter would see that Magglio is hitting a respectable .277, and a decent .281 with RISP (better than everyone but Cabrera and Polanco). The Tigers would have to prove that his release was strictly baseball-related, and the stats don't back that up. So, they're stuck with each other.
I also believe it would kill morale if the Tigers cut Maggs. He's a pretty popular guy in the clubhouse, and Cabrera, especially, looks up to him as a trail-blazing Venezuelan. Now that Maggs is swinging a better bat, Leyland should suck it up and play him as the regular right fielder. The $18million guaranteed next season is a way better investment than Bonderman's $12.5M, D-train's $12M, and Nate's $10M. Those dudes aren't even on the friggin' roster! Those awful contracts will likely kill the Tigers chances of pursuing any free agent. And Verlander and Edwin Jackson will likely get massive pay increases next season too, so the payroll will be going up. For poor Mike Ilitch, the end is nowhere in sight.
But all will be forgiven if they keep winning.
More Tigers
Granderson's troubles continue. In the month of August, Curtis is hitting .246 with 1 HR and 4 RBIs. He's hitless in the last three games. Inge is no better. Since July 1, Inge is a dreadful .181, with 5 HR and 13 RBIs. In the last ten games, ol' Brandon notched a meager 3 hits. And then there's Laird. Gerald has 7 hits in the entire month of August, good for a .184 average. No homers and 1 measly RBI. Only 25 RBIs for the season. Folks, that's some awful hitting.
How the heck are they in first? Not only are they in first, but they've maintained first place for over 3 months! Crazy.
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
More Tiger Notes
He's been catching flak around Detroit for not hitting when it counts. Yet, last night, in a super-clutch situation, Miguel Cabrera rose to the occasion. Despite a sterling start from Rick Porcello, Bobby Seay came on in relief and gave up two runs to give Seattle a 3-1 lead heading into the bottom of the 8th.
Alex Avila started the 8th with a home run. Then Santiago got a single. Eventually, the Tigers loaded the bases with one out. Down 1 run, Cabrera stepped up to the plate. After missing badly at a curve, he lined the next pitch up the middle. Two runs scored! It was a great, unexpected comeback.
In the 9th, Rodney gave up a seeing-eye ground ball, then another single by Ichiro. The runners advanced on another ground ball. Then, with the fans chanting "Rodney! Rodney!", he slammed the door. Two straight strike outs. The last strikeout was a major battle - 12 pitches! Well done by Rodney and the Tigers.
Huff
Huff made his debut last night going 1-4. He had a chance to score a runner from second at his first at-bat. Pop out. Nevertheless, he hit a long fly ball to deep center that illustrated his potential. He should work out quite well.
Bertuzzi
I never really dug the guy, and I know Mrs. Thatballdontlie absolutely loathes him... but he must've meshed well with the Red Wing players. Otherwise, would Holland have pursued him? From a hockey standpoint, the team can use his skill-set. Despite his age, Bertuzzi can still put the puck in the net. He won't score 40 goals, but he could get 15-20. He's also a physical presence that could take some of the heat of Holmstrom. And he's a fighter. That always comes in handy.
Alex Avila started the 8th with a home run. Then Santiago got a single. Eventually, the Tigers loaded the bases with one out. Down 1 run, Cabrera stepped up to the plate. After missing badly at a curve, he lined the next pitch up the middle. Two runs scored! It was a great, unexpected comeback.
In the 9th, Rodney gave up a seeing-eye ground ball, then another single by Ichiro. The runners advanced on another ground ball. Then, with the fans chanting "Rodney! Rodney!", he slammed the door. Two straight strike outs. The last strikeout was a major battle - 12 pitches! Well done by Rodney and the Tigers.
Huff
Huff made his debut last night going 1-4. He had a chance to score a runner from second at his first at-bat. Pop out. Nevertheless, he hit a long fly ball to deep center that illustrated his potential. He should work out quite well.
Bertuzzi
I never really dug the guy, and I know Mrs. Thatballdontlie absolutely loathes him... but he must've meshed well with the Red Wing players. Otherwise, would Holland have pursued him? From a hockey standpoint, the team can use his skill-set. Despite his age, Bertuzzi can still put the puck in the net. He won't score 40 goals, but he could get 15-20. He's also a physical presence that could take some of the heat of Holmstrom. And he's a fighter. That always comes in handy.
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Tiger Notes
While Dave Dombrowski gets regularly skewered for the Edgar Renteria/Jair Jurrjens trade, the Robertson contract, and the D-train contract extension, there's no denying that he's turned around the Tiger franchise. Prior to arriving in Detroit, the Tigers went a decade without a winning season. With Dombrowski, the Tigers reclaimed respectability by overpaying free agent bats (Pudge, Maggs, Sheffield) and drafting the hardest throwers available (Verlander, Miller, Perry). The system works because Mike Ilitch opens up his wallet.
Some owners don't permit their GMs to take the best players available. If a young star will command too much money, teams will pass. That's how Perry slipped to Tigers last season. This year, the 2nd best pitcher, Jacob Turner, fell to the Tigers at #9. His agent, Scott Boras, wanted "Porcello money," and the negotiations came down to the wire. Unlike other sports, if the player doesn't sign by the deadline (last night at midnight), the team loses his rights, and the kid re-enters the draft the next year. So there's a bit of pressure, and Dombrowski always gets it done.
Last night, Dombrowski signed both the Tigers 1st and 2nd rounder. Even the 2nd rounder, who also fell due to contract demands, received a million-plus bonus. Ilitch really opens his wallet for these kids, and, so far, the kids have repaid him on the mound.
RyRay
Who's to blame for Raburn's three errors on Sunday? Raburn or Leyland? Obviously, it wasn't Leyland who airmailed three throws to first base. Yet, I found out yesterday that Raburn played 3rd base 168 times in the minor leagues. In those 168 games, RyRay commited an alarming 62 errors. What did Leyland expect on Sunday? He had Santiago available or even Inge as a defensive replacement.
Huff
More big ups to DD for landing Aubrey Huff. He can only help the team. His average is nothing special, but he did bat .324 with RISP for the Orioles. His RBI total puts him at the top of the entire Tiger roster. And he's a lefty. AND he can play 3rd base. That fits a lot of needs.
Some owners don't permit their GMs to take the best players available. If a young star will command too much money, teams will pass. That's how Perry slipped to Tigers last season. This year, the 2nd best pitcher, Jacob Turner, fell to the Tigers at #9. His agent, Scott Boras, wanted "Porcello money," and the negotiations came down to the wire. Unlike other sports, if the player doesn't sign by the deadline (last night at midnight), the team loses his rights, and the kid re-enters the draft the next year. So there's a bit of pressure, and Dombrowski always gets it done.
Last night, Dombrowski signed both the Tigers 1st and 2nd rounder. Even the 2nd rounder, who also fell due to contract demands, received a million-plus bonus. Ilitch really opens his wallet for these kids, and, so far, the kids have repaid him on the mound.
RyRay
Who's to blame for Raburn's three errors on Sunday? Raburn or Leyland? Obviously, it wasn't Leyland who airmailed three throws to first base. Yet, I found out yesterday that Raburn played 3rd base 168 times in the minor leagues. In those 168 games, RyRay commited an alarming 62 errors. What did Leyland expect on Sunday? He had Santiago available or even Inge as a defensive replacement.
Huff
More big ups to DD for landing Aubrey Huff. He can only help the team. His average is nothing special, but he did bat .324 with RISP for the Orioles. His RBI total puts him at the top of the entire Tiger roster. And he's a lefty. AND he can play 3rd base. That fits a lot of needs.
Monday, August 17, 2009
Country Bad
Sunday could've been the perfect Michigan summer day - beautiful weather, great food, and a Tigers game. But, despite their recent upswing in form, the Tigers reverted to their old selves in dramatic fashion. The night before, the Tigers exploded for 10 runs and looked rejuvenated after the bitter Boston series. They were a team on the verge of a strong pennant run. Galarraga pitched well, and the bats were lively. The leadoff hitter reached base in 7 of the 9 innings, but the team just could not push runs across.
At game's end, the Tigers were a shocking 0-16 with runners in scoring position. We all know the Tigers are a poor clutch hitting team, but 0-16 takes ineptitude into the sublime. To put that stat into perspective, the Tigers committed almost 2/3 of their outs with RISP. The Tigers only runs were when Maggs hit a solo HR (one of the two inning when the leadoff hitter did not reach base of course) and when Everett scored courtesy of a wild pitch.
To make matters worse, the Tigers reliable defense abandoned them. Granting Inge a day off, RyRay subbed in at 3rd base. The drop-off in skill was evident, as Raburn notched three errors for the day. The dude just couldn't make the throw from 3rd to 1st. In the 10th inning (yes, they extended the pain to extra innings), the Royals brought home a run without ever hitting the ball out of the infield. With one out, Josh Anderson - the dude the Tigers traded to KC for "cash" - reached first after mishitting a Rodney fastball. Anderson's "hit" dribbled toward 3rd base and stayed fair. Then DeJesus grounded out to Raburn who sent his throw high and wide. DeJesus was safe at first, Anderson on second. The next batter grounded out to Rodney who did manage to throw successfully to 1st (the runners advanced). 2 outs. Rodney induced yet another grounder from Billy Butler for the potential 3rd out. Raburn fielded the grounder perfectly, but his throw sailed high and wide yet again. Butler was safe, and Anderson scored.
The Tigers did manage to get a player on base in the bottom of the 10th, but the heart of the order failed to get that clutch hit. Game over. Sad end to an otherwise impressive weekend series. KC escaped with the win despite only notching 5 hits.
The Tigers remain in 1st place, 2.5 games clear of the White Sox. A dangerous west coast road trip looms, though, with games in Oakland and Anaheim.
At game's end, the Tigers were a shocking 0-16 with runners in scoring position. We all know the Tigers are a poor clutch hitting team, but 0-16 takes ineptitude into the sublime. To put that stat into perspective, the Tigers committed almost 2/3 of their outs with RISP. The Tigers only runs were when Maggs hit a solo HR (one of the two inning when the leadoff hitter did not reach base of course) and when Everett scored courtesy of a wild pitch.
To make matters worse, the Tigers reliable defense abandoned them. Granting Inge a day off, RyRay subbed in at 3rd base. The drop-off in skill was evident, as Raburn notched three errors for the day. The dude just couldn't make the throw from 3rd to 1st. In the 10th inning (yes, they extended the pain to extra innings), the Royals brought home a run without ever hitting the ball out of the infield. With one out, Josh Anderson - the dude the Tigers traded to KC for "cash" - reached first after mishitting a Rodney fastball. Anderson's "hit" dribbled toward 3rd base and stayed fair. Then DeJesus grounded out to Raburn who sent his throw high and wide. DeJesus was safe at first, Anderson on second. The next batter grounded out to Rodney who did manage to throw successfully to 1st (the runners advanced). 2 outs. Rodney induced yet another grounder from Billy Butler for the potential 3rd out. Raburn fielded the grounder perfectly, but his throw sailed high and wide yet again. Butler was safe, and Anderson scored.
The Tigers did manage to get a player on base in the bottom of the 10th, but the heart of the order failed to get that clutch hit. Game over. Sad end to an otherwise impressive weekend series. KC escaped with the win despite only notching 5 hits.
The Tigers remain in 1st place, 2.5 games clear of the White Sox. A dangerous west coast road trip looms, though, with games in Oakland and Anaheim.
Friday, August 14, 2009
A Horse
It's been a tough sports week - three straight losses to Boston (including that dreadful ejection/suspension of Porcello), a heartbreaking loss to Mexico in Azteca, and the Lions are now once again dominating sports-talk radio.
Even though three days have passed, that Porcello suspension still doesn't sit well with me. There was something non-sporting about the whole ordeal. When all was said-and-done, the Tigers' best hitter, Cabrera, missed two games and Porcello missed one. His replacement was a career minor-leaguer. The BoSox lost Youkilis, but his replacement hit three home runs in the series. Since Boston instigated the fight -- first by hitting Cabrera in Game 1 and then Tazawa hitting Cabrera again in Game 2 - it seems hardly fair for the league to not recognize that. Ultimately, the move cost the Tigers only one game, but that may come back to haunt them down the line.
No doubt, Verlander was as irritated about the ordeal as me entering yesterday's game. The "horse" (as Leyland likes to call him) opened the game with massive heat. He normally starts the first with 94-95mph fastballs, but yesterday he hit 98-99 out of the gate. Boston still managed a few hits. With runners at the corners with one out, Verlander escaped the threat with two straight Ks. That set the tone. The Tigers ace went 8 innings against one of the best hitting teams in the league, allowing just four hits. Rodney pitched a 1-2-3 ninth for his 24th save. It was, in essence, a virtuoso pitching performance by the Tigers, and a much needed consolation in the Boston series.
The Tigers' bats, meanwhile, remained quiet. Only Ryan Raburn provided any punch. Against the mediocre Clay Buchholz (4.45 ERA, just up from AAA), the Tigers managed just five hits - one a solo HR by Raburn. Raburn also got the only hit with a runner-in-scoring-position, knocking in Cabrera with an infield single.
So, it's back to Comerica to face the Royals this weekend. The 1-3 road trip could've been much, much worse, but neither Chicago or Minnesota gained any ground!
The series against Boston was rather telling. The Tigers are far from matching the elite franchises in the East. The fact that Boston can lose Youkilis and replace him with a 4-time All-star illustrates their extensive depth. Their relievers put the Tigers bullpen to shame. Would Zach Miner, the Tigers one semi-reliable long reliever, even make the Bosox roster? (Miner, by the way, achieved the rare distinction of losing two games in one series.) Yet, the best players on the Tigers match the Sox. Cabrera (when not getting hit) could match anything the Red Sox could trot out, and Verlander equaled Beckett's heroics from the night before. If the Tigers could avoid exposing their weak spots (bullpen, clutch hitting), they could actually put up a fight.
Even though three days have passed, that Porcello suspension still doesn't sit well with me. There was something non-sporting about the whole ordeal. When all was said-and-done, the Tigers' best hitter, Cabrera, missed two games and Porcello missed one. His replacement was a career minor-leaguer. The BoSox lost Youkilis, but his replacement hit three home runs in the series. Since Boston instigated the fight -- first by hitting Cabrera in Game 1 and then Tazawa hitting Cabrera again in Game 2 - it seems hardly fair for the league to not recognize that. Ultimately, the move cost the Tigers only one game, but that may come back to haunt them down the line.
No doubt, Verlander was as irritated about the ordeal as me entering yesterday's game. The "horse" (as Leyland likes to call him) opened the game with massive heat. He normally starts the first with 94-95mph fastballs, but yesterday he hit 98-99 out of the gate. Boston still managed a few hits. With runners at the corners with one out, Verlander escaped the threat with two straight Ks. That set the tone. The Tigers ace went 8 innings against one of the best hitting teams in the league, allowing just four hits. Rodney pitched a 1-2-3 ninth for his 24th save. It was, in essence, a virtuoso pitching performance by the Tigers, and a much needed consolation in the Boston series.
The Tigers' bats, meanwhile, remained quiet. Only Ryan Raburn provided any punch. Against the mediocre Clay Buchholz (4.45 ERA, just up from AAA), the Tigers managed just five hits - one a solo HR by Raburn. Raburn also got the only hit with a runner-in-scoring-position, knocking in Cabrera with an infield single.
So, it's back to Comerica to face the Royals this weekend. The 1-3 road trip could've been much, much worse, but neither Chicago or Minnesota gained any ground!
The series against Boston was rather telling. The Tigers are far from matching the elite franchises in the East. The fact that Boston can lose Youkilis and replace him with a 4-time All-star illustrates their extensive depth. Their relievers put the Tigers bullpen to shame. Would Zach Miner, the Tigers one semi-reliable long reliever, even make the Bosox roster? (Miner, by the way, achieved the rare distinction of losing two games in one series.) Yet, the best players on the Tigers match the Sox. Cabrera (when not getting hit) could match anything the Red Sox could trot out, and Verlander equaled Beckett's heroics from the night before. If the Tigers could avoid exposing their weak spots (bullpen, clutch hitting), they could actually put up a fight.
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
More of the same
Watching the US at Azteca is like watching the Tigers try to hit in the clutch. They really try, but failure is inevitable.
Mexico was shell-shocked in the beginning, as a brilliant pass from Donovan sprung Charlie Davies (or "Davis" as Marcelo Balboa likes to call him). Davies, dribbling the ball, still had enough speed to outpace the Mexican defense, and he slotted home a brilliant goal in the 9th minute. That, unfortunately, is when the US's tactics went south.
What started as a 4-4-2 regressed into an 8-2. The entire midfield bunkered, leaving acres of space for the Mexicans. After a non-call foul on Donovan, Mexico countered, finding Castro alone 25 yards out. Castro took one touch and hammered home a brilliant long-range bomb. 1-1. Unfortunately, the bunker continued.
It wasn't until the 25th minute that US actually regained possession - 16 straight minutes of Mexican domination. And it wasn't until the 35th minute that the US had the ball in Mexico's box. Other than a handful of restarts, the US rarely threatened the Mexican goal. Mexico's keeper did not register a single save. On the other side of the field, Dos Santos had a fantastic opportunity, courtesy of a backheel pass from Blanco. Dos Santos sent his shot wide.
In general, the US defense actually played well. It was perhaps Gooch's strongest game for the nats. Yet, when they won the ball, they had nowhere to pass. The US midfield was nowhere to be found. The US simply gave the ball back to Mexico, and the cycle continued the entire game. Not helping the US's cause was inconsistent calls from the ref. In the first half alone, Gooch, Demerit, and Bocanegra all received questionable yellow cards. Mexico, despite hard tackles of their own, received none. It wasn't until a Torrado tried to lift an injured Davies off the ground that the ref booked a Mexican player.
Around the 60th minute, Bradley inserted Feilhaber - the first US player with ability to possess the ball. It made some difference. Mexico was actually gassed a bit too. In the 62nd minute, Holden, a 2nd half sub, sent a fine cross into the box. Charlie Davies dove toward the ball but missed by a few inches. That was as close as the US came in the entire half. Mexico had a handful of corner kicks that amounted to nothing, and Dos Santos botched another chance to give his team a lead. Yet, in the 82nd minute, a Mexican sub Juarez, split the US defense. Dribbling toward the US goal line, he cut the ball back to a wide open Sabah who buried the shot. 2-1 Mexico. Game over.
The loss was expected. And the tactics were expected too. I just wish the US would try a little something different. The bunker still resulted in a loss. Take the game to Mexico. Force them to play a little defense! I truly believe the US has the players to match Mexico even in Azteca. They'll never have the possession ability, but they don't have to bunker.
Mexico was shell-shocked in the beginning, as a brilliant pass from Donovan sprung Charlie Davies (or "Davis" as Marcelo Balboa likes to call him). Davies, dribbling the ball, still had enough speed to outpace the Mexican defense, and he slotted home a brilliant goal in the 9th minute. That, unfortunately, is when the US's tactics went south.
What started as a 4-4-2 regressed into an 8-2. The entire midfield bunkered, leaving acres of space for the Mexicans. After a non-call foul on Donovan, Mexico countered, finding Castro alone 25 yards out. Castro took one touch and hammered home a brilliant long-range bomb. 1-1. Unfortunately, the bunker continued.
It wasn't until the 25th minute that US actually regained possession - 16 straight minutes of Mexican domination. And it wasn't until the 35th minute that the US had the ball in Mexico's box. Other than a handful of restarts, the US rarely threatened the Mexican goal. Mexico's keeper did not register a single save. On the other side of the field, Dos Santos had a fantastic opportunity, courtesy of a backheel pass from Blanco. Dos Santos sent his shot wide.
In general, the US defense actually played well. It was perhaps Gooch's strongest game for the nats. Yet, when they won the ball, they had nowhere to pass. The US midfield was nowhere to be found. The US simply gave the ball back to Mexico, and the cycle continued the entire game. Not helping the US's cause was inconsistent calls from the ref. In the first half alone, Gooch, Demerit, and Bocanegra all received questionable yellow cards. Mexico, despite hard tackles of their own, received none. It wasn't until a Torrado tried to lift an injured Davies off the ground that the ref booked a Mexican player.
Around the 60th minute, Bradley inserted Feilhaber - the first US player with ability to possess the ball. It made some difference. Mexico was actually gassed a bit too. In the 62nd minute, Holden, a 2nd half sub, sent a fine cross into the box. Charlie Davies dove toward the ball but missed by a few inches. That was as close as the US came in the entire half. Mexico had a handful of corner kicks that amounted to nothing, and Dos Santos botched another chance to give his team a lead. Yet, in the 82nd minute, a Mexican sub Juarez, split the US defense. Dribbling toward the US goal line, he cut the ball back to a wide open Sabah who buried the shot. 2-1 Mexico. Game over.
The loss was expected. And the tactics were expected too. I just wish the US would try a little something different. The bunker still resulted in a loss. Take the game to Mexico. Force them to play a little defense! I truly believe the US has the players to match Mexico even in Azteca. They'll never have the possession ability, but they don't have to bunker.
My First Bradley Complaint
And the game hasn't even started yet.
With 30minutes to game time, I found out that Bradley went with experience over talent (yet again). Has he not been burned by this multiple times (Beasley)? The US's stone-faced leader is starting Brian Ching and Steve Cherundolo over Jozy Altidore and Jon Spector. The Cherundolo pick doesn't irk me that much, but how can he possibly sit Altidore? The dude is the US's best scorer, bar none. What possible advantage does Ching have?
This is very angering. I'm sure the Mexican defense is quaking in their boots knowing that Ching will be lining up at striker. For their careers, Ching has 9 goals in 41 caps. Altidore has 7 goals in 16 caps. And one of Jozy's goals was against a full-strength Spain. Don't get this decision. Not at all.
By the way, the hype for this game is intense! I can't believe how much news/coverage they've got for a non-World Cup game. What a treat it is to see soccer winning more and more converts.
With 30minutes to game time, I found out that Bradley went with experience over talent (yet again). Has he not been burned by this multiple times (Beasley)? The US's stone-faced leader is starting Brian Ching and Steve Cherundolo over Jozy Altidore and Jon Spector. The Cherundolo pick doesn't irk me that much, but how can he possibly sit Altidore? The dude is the US's best scorer, bar none. What possible advantage does Ching have?
This is very angering. I'm sure the Mexican defense is quaking in their boots knowing that Ching will be lining up at striker. For their careers, Ching has 9 goals in 41 caps. Altidore has 7 goals in 16 caps. And one of Jozy's goals was against a full-strength Spain. Don't get this decision. Not at all.
By the way, the hype for this game is intense! I can't believe how much news/coverage they've got for a non-World Cup game. What a treat it is to see soccer winning more and more converts.
Master stroke by Youkilis
There was something in the air last night in Boston. And I don't mean Mike Lowell's home runs. The Red Sox seemed amped for a fight... which is strange considering the Tigers and Red Sox have no rivalry, and the Red Sox have beaten the Tigers in every game this season. Nevertheless, when Porcello threw an inside pitch to Victor Martinez in the 1st, Martinez took a step toward the mound and glared at Porcello. Porcello stared back quizzically, as if thinking "That pitch was almost a strike, dude."
Earlier in the game, the Tigers beat up on first time starter Tazawa to take a 3-0 lead. In the 2nd inning, Miguel Cabrera, who had been hit by a pitch in the 1st, left the game after aggravating the injury (x-rays were negative). Then, in the bottom of the 2nd, Porcello's first pitch sailed high and inside and hit Youkilis. Youkilis instantly charged the mound, threw his helmet at Porcello, and tried to slow-dance/tackle him. Both benches cleared, including Cabrera who had been receiving treatment in the clubhouse. The most heated players were Youkilis and Edwin Jackson who hit Youkilis with a pitch the night before. The umpires decided to throw out both Youkilis and Porcello.
That decision absolutely killed the Tigers. Porcello's replacement, Chris Lambert, gave the lead away faster than you can say "14.85 ERA". Two batters later, the score was 3-3. Meanwhile, Boston replaced Youkilis with 4-time All-star Mike Lowell, who proceeded to homer TWICE and drive Boston to a 6-3 lead. The Tigers did manage to score two more runs, but they suffered from their typical inability to hit in the clutch - overall 2-11 with RISP, missing countless opportunities to sacrifice the runner in from third. Old news.
With that said, the Tigers 5 runs may just have been enough had Porcello stayed in the game. The Tigers desperately needed this game, going against a first-time pitcher in a dangerous ball-park. The Porcello ejection killed their chances, but I can't necessarily blame the umps. What were they supposed to do? Only eject Youkilis? Boston set it up perfectly. With Martinez glaring at Porcello in the 1st inning, it served notice to the umps that Porcello may be trying to hit the Bosox batters. Then when Porcello did hit Youkilis, the umps could eject both players with a clear conscience sensing something deeper was at play. As much as anything, Porcello was a victim of Jackson's rift with Youkilis the night before. So, Youkilis forced the issue. He charged Porcello, physically involving him in the fracas. It was a cunning strategy by Youkilis, worthy of the Romulans.
If I were Leyland, I would use the same strategy against them. Tonight, the Bosox have the distinct advantage with Beckett on the mound. The Tigers should glare at him every time he throws inside. Then, if actually hits a batter (or comes close), the Tiger batter should charge the mound and get Beckett kicked out. It worked against Porcello. The Bosox bullpen is taxed, just like the Tigers. Get Beckett off the mound as quickly as possible.
(ESPN's take on Youkilis/Porcello ejections.)
Earlier in the game, the Tigers beat up on first time starter Tazawa to take a 3-0 lead. In the 2nd inning, Miguel Cabrera, who had been hit by a pitch in the 1st, left the game after aggravating the injury (x-rays were negative). Then, in the bottom of the 2nd, Porcello's first pitch sailed high and inside and hit Youkilis. Youkilis instantly charged the mound, threw his helmet at Porcello, and tried to slow-dance/tackle him. Both benches cleared, including Cabrera who had been receiving treatment in the clubhouse. The most heated players were Youkilis and Edwin Jackson who hit Youkilis with a pitch the night before. The umpires decided to throw out both Youkilis and Porcello.
That decision absolutely killed the Tigers. Porcello's replacement, Chris Lambert, gave the lead away faster than you can say "14.85 ERA". Two batters later, the score was 3-3. Meanwhile, Boston replaced Youkilis with 4-time All-star Mike Lowell, who proceeded to homer TWICE and drive Boston to a 6-3 lead. The Tigers did manage to score two more runs, but they suffered from their typical inability to hit in the clutch - overall 2-11 with RISP, missing countless opportunities to sacrifice the runner in from third. Old news.
With that said, the Tigers 5 runs may just have been enough had Porcello stayed in the game. The Tigers desperately needed this game, going against a first-time pitcher in a dangerous ball-park. The Porcello ejection killed their chances, but I can't necessarily blame the umps. What were they supposed to do? Only eject Youkilis? Boston set it up perfectly. With Martinez glaring at Porcello in the 1st inning, it served notice to the umps that Porcello may be trying to hit the Bosox batters. Then when Porcello did hit Youkilis, the umps could eject both players with a clear conscience sensing something deeper was at play. As much as anything, Porcello was a victim of Jackson's rift with Youkilis the night before. So, Youkilis forced the issue. He charged Porcello, physically involving him in the fracas. It was a cunning strategy by Youkilis, worthy of the Romulans.
If I were Leyland, I would use the same strategy against them. Tonight, the Bosox have the distinct advantage with Beckett on the mound. The Tigers should glare at him every time he throws inside. Then, if actually hits a batter (or comes close), the Tiger batter should charge the mound and get Beckett kicked out. It worked against Porcello. The Bosox bullpen is taxed, just like the Tigers. Get Beckett off the mound as quickly as possible.
(ESPN's take on Youkilis/Porcello ejections.)
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Dear Lions Fans
To the 15,000 sorry souls who braved the treacherous rain to go watch a practice,
Why? When you have such glorious sports franchises in your home town, why would you waste an entire Saturday watching the worst team in professional sports history?
Think of it like a cost-benefit analysis. The costs:
Why? When you have such glorious sports franchises in your home town, why would you waste an entire Saturday watching the worst team in professional sports history?
Think of it like a cost-benefit analysis. The costs:
- Financial (tickets to games, merchandise)
- Emotional (if they lose...)
- Time (perhaps the biggest cost, especially for the NFL)
For all the other Detroit teams, the benefits:
Pistons
- 3-time NBA champion, most recently in 2004
- An organization with a proven commitment to winning - in the last 24 years, they've made the playoffs 19 times
- 14 Hall of Famers
- Cheap tickets and a family-friendly venue
Tigers
- Currently a first-place team!
- 4-time MLB champion, albeit the most recent was 1984 - World Series finalist as recently as '06
- Commitment to winning - 4th largest payroll in baseball, despite Detroit's economy
- 20 Hall of Famers, plus one potential HOFer currently on the roster
- Cheap tickets and a family-friendly venue
Red Wings
- Premier organization in all of hockey
- 11 Stanley Cups, 55 Playoff appearances, including 18 straight - the longest streak in any professional sport
- Commitment to winning. Prior to the salary cap, the Wings were big spenders and an elite franchise. Post salary cap, the Wings focus on savvy drafting, player development, and investing long-term in a player's career (and post-hockey career)
- 40 Hall of Famers (41 if you count the not-yet-eligible Yzerman), plus three potential HOFers currently on the roster
As for the Lions, they don't qualify for any of the above benefits. They have no history of winning, nor a consistent record of making the playoffs. They have no commitment to winning. In fact, it could be argued they have a commitment to losing. Despite Matt Millen's 24-72 record and dreadful draft history after the '06 season, the management waited two more years before finally letting him go. And then replaced him with his assistant.
The Lions have the stigma of being the only team to ever go 0-16 in a season. Despite all that, you Lions fans continue to come out in droves. You'll watch the team practice, you'll call-in to radio shows, you'll post messages online. It's like you're stuck in an abusive relationship that you can't escape.
Allow me to say something drastically uncouth: The NFL ain't that cool.
I know it's not really the Lions that you love. It's the NFL. They're the hot chick in school that everyone loves because she's popular. In reality, she's got the personality of a slug. Stop being the drone. Break free from the NFL's chains. Win back your free time! Stop deluding yourself that "this will be the year!" The Lions are dreadful. There's no hope. Go apple picking instead.
That bloody sacrifice fly
Other teams can do it. Why can't the Tigers? They had a chance last night to tie the game with a sacrifice, or perhaps take the lead with a single in the 8th inning. I would have gladly accepted a sac fly. In fact, Boston's infield was conceding the tying run.
But freakin' Adam Everett struck out - the last two strikes on truly awful pitches in the dirt. I feel bad singling out Everett because the entire team has sucked in these clutch situations. The Tigers remain 4th worst in the majors at sacrifice flies. Interestingly, they're in the upper half of teams with sacrifice bunts. Those stats tell me the Tigers should no longer sacrifice. The only reason to do the sac bunt is to get the runner into scoring position. If they can't hit a freakin' sac fly, they might as well not give up the out. Just try for a hit. Every time. Argh.
But freakin' Adam Everett struck out - the last two strikes on truly awful pitches in the dirt. I feel bad singling out Everett because the entire team has sucked in these clutch situations. The Tigers remain 4th worst in the majors at sacrifice flies. Interestingly, they're in the upper half of teams with sacrifice bunts. Those stats tell me the Tigers should no longer sacrifice. The only reason to do the sac bunt is to get the runner into scoring position. If they can't hit a freakin' sac fly, they might as well not give up the out. Just try for a hit. Every time. Argh.
Monday, August 10, 2009
11-0? No problem.
Gotta give the Tigers credit. For as much as I point out their faults, I should at least acknowledge when they come correct. They took 3 of 4 against the Orioles, and then, in a crucial series against rival Minnesota, they won 2 of 3. Surprisingly, the game they lost was with Verlander on the mound.
On exhibit, for all to see, was the Tigers' glaring weaknesses - shaky bullpen, questionable starting pitchers, confounding inability to sacrifice a run home from 3rd. Yet, they somehow won 5 of 7 and remain in 1st place - 3 games clear of Chicago, who lost 2 of 3 to the Tribe. Those pesky Indians beat up the Tigers, then they beat up Minnesota and now the White Sox. Are they on the comeback trail? The Cliff Lee and Victor Martinez trades rejuvenated that squad.
A few observations...
The big news of course was Alex Avila. The Lake Erie call-up notched 5 RBIs in 2 games. Avila's clutch hitting illustrated just how much good 'ol Laird struggled at the plate. The hope is that Avila's arrival will heat up Laird's bat too. It certainly worked yesterday, as Laird got two hits - his first two-hit game since July 8th (24 games ago!).
Washburn struggled again. Poor early returns on the Washburn trade. The pitcher who used to have the 3rd best ERA in the AL looks more like... gulp... Nate Robertson. Lucky for Washburn, his next start is against KC. Since joining Detroit, Washburn's ERA jumped from 2.6 to 3.1.
After an interminable slump, Polanco is back to the crafty slap-hitter of years past. He's batting a cool .400 in August (a ten game hitting streak), with some uber-clutch hits over the weekend. He's also the first regular starter to crack the .270 mark in a month.
On exhibit, for all to see, was the Tigers' glaring weaknesses - shaky bullpen, questionable starting pitchers, confounding inability to sacrifice a run home from 3rd. Yet, they somehow won 5 of 7 and remain in 1st place - 3 games clear of Chicago, who lost 2 of 3 to the Tribe. Those pesky Indians beat up the Tigers, then they beat up Minnesota and now the White Sox. Are they on the comeback trail? The Cliff Lee and Victor Martinez trades rejuvenated that squad.
A few observations...
The big news of course was Alex Avila. The Lake Erie call-up notched 5 RBIs in 2 games. Avila's clutch hitting illustrated just how much good 'ol Laird struggled at the plate. The hope is that Avila's arrival will heat up Laird's bat too. It certainly worked yesterday, as Laird got two hits - his first two-hit game since July 8th (24 games ago!).
Washburn struggled again. Poor early returns on the Washburn trade. The pitcher who used to have the 3rd best ERA in the AL looks more like... gulp... Nate Robertson. Lucky for Washburn, his next start is against KC. Since joining Detroit, Washburn's ERA jumped from 2.6 to 3.1.
After an interminable slump, Polanco is back to the crafty slap-hitter of years past. He's batting a cool .400 in August (a ten game hitting streak), with some uber-clutch hits over the weekend. He's also the first regular starter to crack the .270 mark in a month.
US roster announced for 8/12 Mexico match
No major surprises on the roster. It's likely the same folks who started the final of the Confed Cup will start the Mexico match:
Howard
Spector Gooch Demerit Boca
Dempsey Bradley Clark Donovan
Davies Altidore
The only surprise is that Bradley called up Conor Casey. No offense to the dude personally, but he offers nothing on the field. Three holdovers from the Gold Cup made the cut - Ching, Holden, and Chad Marshall. It's possible that Bradley inserts Ching over Davies, though I sincerely hope not. Feilhaber made the bench, as did Jose Torres, and I expect both to see time against El Tri.
Howard
Spector Gooch Demerit Boca
Dempsey Bradley Clark Donovan
Davies Altidore
The only surprise is that Bradley called up Conor Casey. No offense to the dude personally, but he offers nothing on the field. Three holdovers from the Gold Cup made the cut - Ching, Holden, and Chad Marshall. It's possible that Bradley inserts Ching over Davies, though I sincerely hope not. Feilhaber made the bench, as did Jose Torres, and I expect both to see time against El Tri.
Friday, August 7, 2009
B-B-B-Ben
Ben Wallace is coming home, for a very reasonable $1.3M. The linked article claims his playing time will be "drastically reduced," but I have a hard time figuring out who will play center if not Ben Wallace. Kwame Brown? That may be who Kuester decides to start, but is he a long-term solution? Partnered with Rasheed Wallace, Kwame was a decent defender, but on his own?
My guess is that Big Ben will likely win the starting center position in training camp, and Kwame will once again come off the bench. Even at 35, Ben Wallace has more defensive acumen than every Piston big man, though that's not saying much.
If the season began today, the starting lineup would be Stuckey, Rip, Tay, Villanueva, and Big Ben. Gordon, Chris Wilcox, Bynum and Maxiell would come off the bench. Rookies Austin Daye and Dajuan Saunders would also see spot minutes. That team is drastically more interesting than last year, but (at risk of sounding like a broken record) I still see a massive issue with Rip vs Gordon. Come September, we'll likely see Hamilton on another team.
My guess is that Big Ben will likely win the starting center position in training camp, and Kwame will once again come off the bench. Even at 35, Ben Wallace has more defensive acumen than every Piston big man, though that's not saying much.
If the season began today, the starting lineup would be Stuckey, Rip, Tay, Villanueva, and Big Ben. Gordon, Chris Wilcox, Bynum and Maxiell would come off the bench. Rookies Austin Daye and Dajuan Saunders would also see spot minutes. That team is drastically more interesting than last year, but (at risk of sounding like a broken record) I still see a massive issue with Rip vs Gordon. Come September, we'll likely see Hamilton on another team.
Thursday, August 6, 2009
J-Will
The sporting world's 3rd most popular Jason Williams just signed with the Wings. This signing should just about wrap up the Red Wings offseason moves. To sum up, the team lost Hossa, Hudler, Samuelsson, Kopecky, Chelios and Conklin. They added Jason Williams and Patrick Eaves.
Obviously, the key loss is Hossa, but we all saw that coming. The shocker of Hudler is somewhat offset by the acquisition of Williams, and Eaves could offer much of what Samuelsson brought to the table. Babcock loved using Samuelsson on the point in the powerplay, but that decision drove me crazy. For a guy with such a "heavy shot" (as the announcers liked to say), so few of his shots actually found the target. And I'm not talking about scoring. I'm talking about actually reaching the goal or goaltender. They'd be shanked, blocked, deflected, etc. My guess is that Stuart will take his place on the powerplay, and that's an upgrade.
The upcoming Red Wing season will likely be greeted with the same ambivalence as the '07 Pistons. Prior to that season, the Pistons lost in the Eastern Conference Finals and also lost Ben Wallace to free agency. The team appeared headed for a tumble, from a personnel standpoint. Without adding any big name, few fans can see how the Wings will improve. Yet, from an objective standpoint, the difference-makers in the playoffs all still wear the winged-wheel - Z, Franzen, Ozzie, Lidstrom, Ericsson, Helm, and even Abdelkader. With so many regular-season goalscorers lost, Ville Leino and Williams will have to step up. If they notch 15-20 each, the Wings should find themselves at the top of the league once again.
Obviously, the key loss is Hossa, but we all saw that coming. The shocker of Hudler is somewhat offset by the acquisition of Williams, and Eaves could offer much of what Samuelsson brought to the table. Babcock loved using Samuelsson on the point in the powerplay, but that decision drove me crazy. For a guy with such a "heavy shot" (as the announcers liked to say), so few of his shots actually found the target. And I'm not talking about scoring. I'm talking about actually reaching the goal or goaltender. They'd be shanked, blocked, deflected, etc. My guess is that Stuart will take his place on the powerplay, and that's an upgrade.
The upcoming Red Wing season will likely be greeted with the same ambivalence as the '07 Pistons. Prior to that season, the Pistons lost in the Eastern Conference Finals and also lost Ben Wallace to free agency. The team appeared headed for a tumble, from a personnel standpoint. Without adding any big name, few fans can see how the Wings will improve. Yet, from an objective standpoint, the difference-makers in the playoffs all still wear the winged-wheel - Z, Franzen, Ozzie, Lidstrom, Ericsson, Helm, and even Abdelkader. With so many regular-season goalscorers lost, Ville Leino and Williams will have to step up. If they notch 15-20 each, the Wings should find themselves at the top of the league once again.
Showdown looms
Last night, sparkling Edwin Jackson shut down the Orioles for the second time this season. Allowing two hits through eight innings, Jackson unravelled a bit in the 9th by hitting a batter and then allowing a 2-run HR. Nevertheless, he walked back to the dugout with a standing ovation. As Dave Dombrowski's best-ever acquisition, Edwin continues to impress. The Tigers offense provided just enough punch and actually managed a few clutch hits (Polanco, Cabrera). Very solid win. Porcello will pitch the 4th and final game against the Orioles this afternoon. Yet, the real test will be this weekend - a 3-game set with the Twins.
Many folks in Detroit feel the Tigers are a notch below both the Twins and the Sox. It's quite possible the Tigers will ultimately finish 3rd in the division. What we once thought were "dead bats" may simply be reality. Perhaps the Tigers offense simply sucks. If that's the case, the Tigers will indeed finish 3rd. Verlander and Jackson are indeed excellent, but they simply can't be expected to shut teams down every game. Porcello and Galarraga are inconsistent, and we don't know what to make of Washburn yet. The success or failure of this team rests on the dudes at the plate. Both Polanco and Maggs have come to life the past few games. That must continue. But Granderson, Laird, and, especially, Inge continue to struggle. It's painful to watch. Inge has no confidence at the plate, and he's now striking out on check-swings - vintage '08 Inge. At least he can still field the ball.
Few felt the Tigers would stay in first place through July, but there they remain. It's now August 6th. Are they for real? We'll know more after this weekend.
Many folks in Detroit feel the Tigers are a notch below both the Twins and the Sox. It's quite possible the Tigers will ultimately finish 3rd in the division. What we once thought were "dead bats" may simply be reality. Perhaps the Tigers offense simply sucks. If that's the case, the Tigers will indeed finish 3rd. Verlander and Jackson are indeed excellent, but they simply can't be expected to shut teams down every game. Porcello and Galarraga are inconsistent, and we don't know what to make of Washburn yet. The success or failure of this team rests on the dudes at the plate. Both Polanco and Maggs have come to life the past few games. That must continue. But Granderson, Laird, and, especially, Inge continue to struggle. It's painful to watch. Inge has no confidence at the plate, and he's now striking out on check-swings - vintage '08 Inge. At least he can still field the ball.
Few felt the Tigers would stay in first place through July, but there they remain. It's now August 6th. Are they for real? We'll know more after this weekend.
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
Turning Point?
After Clete Thomas's walkoff HR, John Keating said on the post-game show that we may look back to this game as a turning point in the season.
Perhaps he's one game too early. The real turning point may have been last night when the Tigers welcomed Jarrod Washburn's first start by stranding 8 men on base in the first 4 innings. Against a pitcher making his first-ever MLB start. Washburn was no better. He continually fell behind batters and gave up 6 ER in 5 innnings.
The bottom of the fifth was vintage '09 Tigers. Polanco singled. Magglio popped up. Then Cabrera blistered a fastball to deep center. Polanco raced around third, but the ball bounced into the stands, forcing Polanco to hold up at 3rd. With men on 2nd and 3rd with only one out, Tigers fans knew exactly what to expect next. Two strikeouts. Or a strikeout and a pop-out. Or a strikeout and a ground-out. Either way... they weren't gonna bring Polanco home.
The very next inning, Baltimore turned the game into a rout. I have no doubt that - if the Detroit hitters had pushed across a few runs in the previous inning - Washburn would've pitched a bit differently and maybe avoided a few runs. Ah well. It's all hypothetical. The fact is... the Tigers are a poor hitting team - 11th in the AL in BA, SLG%, RBIs, and last in the league in at-bats. That tells me they're not pressuring the opposing pitchers.
The silver lining is that the team is still at home, with Edwin Jackson on the mound tonight. With a series against Minnesota looming on the horizon, the Tigers need to get hot... and fast.
Wings
Holland signed another former 1st rounder to a miniscule contract ($500k). Hoping for a Daniel Cleary-esque rebirth, Patrick Eaves comes to Detroit after a terrible six goal campaign with the Hurricanes last season. Eaves may be a better pickup than older vets like Mike Grier and Bertuzzi. He may also fit the team's mold better than Jason Williams. While I've rarely seen him play, Eaves is evidently a responsible two-way player. On the Wings, he won't have to always score to find time on the ice. But it certainly wouldn't hurt. The hope is that the kid will find a comfortable role and produce accordingly. At $500k, any bit of offense would be welcome but not expected.
Perhaps he's one game too early. The real turning point may have been last night when the Tigers welcomed Jarrod Washburn's first start by stranding 8 men on base in the first 4 innings. Against a pitcher making his first-ever MLB start. Washburn was no better. He continually fell behind batters and gave up 6 ER in 5 innnings.
The bottom of the fifth was vintage '09 Tigers. Polanco singled. Magglio popped up. Then Cabrera blistered a fastball to deep center. Polanco raced around third, but the ball bounced into the stands, forcing Polanco to hold up at 3rd. With men on 2nd and 3rd with only one out, Tigers fans knew exactly what to expect next. Two strikeouts. Or a strikeout and a pop-out. Or a strikeout and a ground-out. Either way... they weren't gonna bring Polanco home.
The very next inning, Baltimore turned the game into a rout. I have no doubt that - if the Detroit hitters had pushed across a few runs in the previous inning - Washburn would've pitched a bit differently and maybe avoided a few runs. Ah well. It's all hypothetical. The fact is... the Tigers are a poor hitting team - 11th in the AL in BA, SLG%, RBIs, and last in the league in at-bats. That tells me they're not pressuring the opposing pitchers.
The silver lining is that the team is still at home, with Edwin Jackson on the mound tonight. With a series against Minnesota looming on the horizon, the Tigers need to get hot... and fast.
Wings
Holland signed another former 1st rounder to a miniscule contract ($500k). Hoping for a Daniel Cleary-esque rebirth, Patrick Eaves comes to Detroit after a terrible six goal campaign with the Hurricanes last season. Eaves may be a better pickup than older vets like Mike Grier and Bertuzzi. He may also fit the team's mold better than Jason Williams. While I've rarely seen him play, Eaves is evidently a responsible two-way player. On the Wings, he won't have to always score to find time on the ice. But it certainly wouldn't hurt. The hope is that the kid will find a comfortable role and produce accordingly. At $500k, any bit of offense would be welcome but not expected.
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
Clete to the rescue
In one of the most dramatic wins of the season, Clete Thomas, with two outs and two strikes, hit a long line drive to the deepest part of Comerica for a walk-off HR.
Verlander began the game giving up six hits to the first seven batters. The Orioles hammered home five runs in the first inning, but the Tigers fought back. On the road, the Tigers would pack their bags and go home after falling behind by five. But they're a different team at Comerica. They clawed their way back. In the fifth, courtesy of a Cabrera solo shot (3 RBIs on the day), the Tigers tied it. Verlander absolutely slammed the door after that bizarre first inning. In his seven subsequent innings, he gave up a meager three more hits (all singles), while striking out eight.
Then Rodney - in a non-save situation - pitched a 1-2-3 ninth, opening the door for Clete's heroics. Great win for the Tigers.
One interesting note -- Granderson was the first to bat in the bottom of the 9th. The pitcher, Baez, carved up the previous three batters. Granderson worked the count to 3-1. Rod Allen (for those not in Detroit, he's the FSD color analyst) said Curtis should take the next pitch. Baez threw a curve that flew out of the strike zone. Curtis swung and missed badly. Rod said (paraphrasing),
Verlander began the game giving up six hits to the first seven batters. The Orioles hammered home five runs in the first inning, but the Tigers fought back. On the road, the Tigers would pack their bags and go home after falling behind by five. But they're a different team at Comerica. They clawed their way back. In the fifth, courtesy of a Cabrera solo shot (3 RBIs on the day), the Tigers tied it. Verlander absolutely slammed the door after that bizarre first inning. In his seven subsequent innings, he gave up a meager three more hits (all singles), while striking out eight.
Then Rodney - in a non-save situation - pitched a 1-2-3 ninth, opening the door for Clete's heroics. Great win for the Tigers.
One interesting note -- Granderson was the first to bat in the bottom of the 9th. The pitcher, Baez, carved up the previous three batters. Granderson worked the count to 3-1. Rod Allen (for those not in Detroit, he's the FSD color analyst) said Curtis should take the next pitch. Baez threw a curve that flew out of the strike zone. Curtis swung and missed badly. Rod said (paraphrasing),
"He swung at ball 4. You gotta take that pitch. Even if it's a strike, you're still alive with another shot to get a walk. As a leadoff hitter, Curtis needs to understand that getting to first is the number one priority."Rod Allen, like most announcers, rarely criticizes the home team. This time, though, I think he perfectly summed up Curtis's problems at the plate. While Curtis has excellent power numbers, he's also the leadoff hitter who needs to think about on-base percentage. In the bottom of the 9th, in a tie game, he should be thinking "walk". Kudos to Rod Allen for calling Curtis out. I only hope Lloyd McLendon did the same thing.
Monday, August 3, 2009
8 straight
That would be eight straight series that the Tigers have lost on the road. Despite losing their best pitcher (Cliff Lee) and best hitter (Victor Martinez), the Indians demolished the first-place Tigers yesterday. Prior to the game, Leyland said this was Armando Galarraga's most important game of the season (per FSD's Rod Allen). Perhaps that was the wrong motivation.
Things could not have gone worse for Galarraga, as he gave up a career-high eight runs. The offense was just as bad. Opposing pitcher Carl Pavano entered the game with an ERA north of 5, with batters hitting him at a .300+ clip. Fast-forward eight innings, the Tigers manage 1 measly run (on six hits - all singles), with Pavano hardly taxed at 100 pitches.
Over the course of the Cleveland series, the Tigers were 5-33 (.150) with runners in scoring position, and notched six errors in the three games. If the Tigers remain true to form, they'll turn things around this week, as they return home.
They're on the roster?!
This would be exciting news if it was 2006. Unfortunately, the return of Jeremy Bonderman and Nate Robertson will likely mean nothing. Both players are scheduled for starts in Toledo, and Dombrowski actually hinted that Bondo may be headed to the pen. Neither pitcher had any velocity this season, nor much control. If there's anything left in the tank, perhaps a rebirth as a closer might be Bonderman's best chance. As for Nate... I think it's a simple case of age catching up with him. Many pitchers can keep cranking out the heat north of age 30. Not Nate. Once he hit that milestone, he lost it.
Things could not have gone worse for Galarraga, as he gave up a career-high eight runs. The offense was just as bad. Opposing pitcher Carl Pavano entered the game with an ERA north of 5, with batters hitting him at a .300+ clip. Fast-forward eight innings, the Tigers manage 1 measly run (on six hits - all singles), with Pavano hardly taxed at 100 pitches.
Over the course of the Cleveland series, the Tigers were 5-33 (.150) with runners in scoring position, and notched six errors in the three games. If the Tigers remain true to form, they'll turn things around this week, as they return home.
They're on the roster?!
This would be exciting news if it was 2006. Unfortunately, the return of Jeremy Bonderman and Nate Robertson will likely mean nothing. Both players are scheduled for starts in Toledo, and Dombrowski actually hinted that Bondo may be headed to the pen. Neither pitcher had any velocity this season, nor much control. If there's anything left in the tank, perhaps a rebirth as a closer might be Bonderman's best chance. As for Nate... I think it's a simple case of age catching up with him. Many pitchers can keep cranking out the heat north of age 30. Not Nate. Once he hit that milestone, he lost it.
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