39-42, 3rd place, 4.5 games back.
Happy Independence Day everyone.
The Twins are now 4-0 at Comerica this year.
In a season which began with sky high expectations, the Tigers arrive at the midway point 3 games under .500 with little reason to believe that the second 81 will be much better. Last night’s game was a microcosm of the season. Two Santiago errors led to 5 unearned runs, and Brennan Boesch’s poor play in the 7th led to another. Though the play was ruled a 2B, most other regular OFers make that play. The Bullpen’s walks (5) nearly matched its IPs (6.1), and the Tigers again failed to produce with the bases loaded, lowering their season average to .219 with a .531 OPS. (Contrast that to batting .294 with a .797 OPS with RISP for the season). Both Trevor Plouffe and Josh Willingham are having better offensive seasons than Prince Fielder.
To be honest, the loss was embarrassing. Dan Dickerson and Jim Price raised several concerns after the radio broadcast and chided the organization for the guys’ inability to manufacture runs and play defense, and questioned whether the Tigers can get back to .500. Price inferred that Ramon is being overplayed at 2B simply because the Tigers don’t have any other options.
Another loss today would be devastating.
But fortunately, Justin Verlander climbs the hill.
The Tigers simply need to start winning.
Now.
Lineups Later (or please post if you get the chance, headed to a BBQ, as I hope you are).
Original Story:
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July 05, 2012
