What a horrible series. The Tigers’ were fortunate to come away with a victory on Friday night, let a lead slip away on Saturday, and just played lousy on Sunday. And there’s nothing like a two game losing streak before the Fire Tram talk starts up. While Trammell did make some mistakes this series, I’m not pinning Saturday’s loss on him, and no amount of managing could overcome a 8-0 drubbing on Sunday.
Trammell received the most criticism for sticking with Jason Johnson even though he was “struggling” in the 7th inning on Saturday. While he did hit the Aaron Rowand leading off the inning, here are Johnson’s subsequent struggles and the count:
-Ground Ball (1-1 count)
-Ground Ball (first pitch)
-Sacrifice Bunt (first pitch)
-Ground Ball (1-0 count)
-Ground Ball (1-1 count)
Only of those ground balls was hit hard. I’m not sure that constitutes struggling, especially considering Johnson is a ground ball pitcher. He wasn’t falling behind, and guys were driving the ball into the ground – not the gaps. While I probably would have walked Podsednik to load the bases and try for the double play, I don’t fault Trammell for sticking with Johnson.
Now pinch-hitting Ramon Martinez was suspect. I understand that Carlos Pena has been in a funk, but if you’re going to pinch hit why use somebody who has one at-bat for the whole season?
Also, the resting the starter concept needs some work. I understand that Guillen was sore (reports are that he hurt his hamstring Saturday night, but I could have swore I saw him limping at first base after his 10th inning single on Friday night.), and that Young was sick. But knowing two of your top hitters were out, why subsititute another starter (Infante)?
Changing Sox
Finished for the time being with the White Sox, the Tigers have a 4 game set against the Red Sox. Cool temperatures might supress the crowds, but not the excitement of having the World Champs in town. I’m really looking forward to reading Blue Cats and Red Sox as her favorite team (the Red Sox) take on her second favorite team (the Tigers).
I had a sinking feeling in my stomach Sunday when I saw the lineup before the first pitch of the game that we were in trouble. I see no reason to rest players on the day where we could take a series from the division leader. We’ve had multiple rainouts in the last week to boot. If we have to do a “bulk resting day” (which really, we don’t) then why not do it when we’re playing the Red Sox? I know they’re world series champs and all, but I’d much rather pack it in for a game vs. them then I would someone in our own division.
Free Chris Shelton
Sweet fancy Moses I’m not sure I’m gonna survive this series.
Brian, I agree with you completely. It seems like further evidence that Tram is out to lunch.