Thank you Wily Mo Pena…
The Tigers sent 13 runners safely towards first base last night, but managed only 3 runs. A coupla GIDPs and 0-6 with RISP will do that to you. Maggs reached twice in three at bats, but before we get too excited about his return, realize that he only has 2 XBH out of his 10 hits since his return a few weeks ago. He was taken out in the 6th last night, but it looks like it was simply precautionary. Leyland took some of the heat for Schlereth’s woeful performance (8 earned on two swings is quite a feat), mentioning that he (Leyland) had not done a good job of keeping Schlereth sharp. Last night was Schlereth’s first appearance in a week.
In other news…
– Apparently the Tigers are looking to move Brad Thomas. I don’t think DD needs to worry about overages on his cell plan. In fact, they might get more interest if they shopped Dave Thomas.
– New Mets skipper Terry Collins is an EMU alum. Remember when they were the Hurons? Can we bring that back? (Did you know that EMU was originally named “Michigan State Normal School?” What does that say for our friends out in East Lansing?)
– Avila is only about 400,000 votes behind Russell Martin. If you have not already, get out there and vote. Avila really deserves it this year. And do you want Russell Martin and Derek Jeter batting in the first three innings in a game which could determine whether the Tigers or Phillies get home field advantage in October?
– Oh yeah, there’s a game tonight. We really need a solid outing from Phil Coke. More on Coke v. Capuano later today.
The Tigers desperately need a good start from Coke today. Pretty much the exact opposite of his last two starts.
Capuano had a rough go early on in 2011, but he’s posted 4 straight quality starts dating back to June 7th. On the year he’s a pedestrian 6-7 with a 3.99 ERA and 1.37 WHIP. He’s walked 1 or fewer in 8/15 starts. I think the boys will have their work cut out for them tonight.
Cabrera is the only Tiger with more than 4 career plate appearances against Capuano, and he’s got 7 hits in 19 ABs with 2 HR. VMart is 2-3.
Tonight’s Troops Are:
1. Austin Jackson, CF
2. Casper Wells, RF
3. Magglio Ordonez, DH
4. Miguel Cabrera, 1B
5. Victor Martinez, C
6. Jhonny Peralta, SS
7. Brennan Boesch, LF
8. Brandon Inge, 3B
9. Ryan Raburn, 2B