State of the Tigers

I’m here with you tonight to discuss the state of the Major League Baseball team the Detroit Tigers.

In the following paragraphs I will give you my brief synopsis of the Tigers run thus far, halfway through the season.

As the All-Star Weekend is over and the Tigers start the second half of the season tonight against the Seattle Mariners, this overview of mine should be right on time.

However, if you feel that I missed some points or feel the need to correct me or add something, please, do so.

Here’s what I’ve got:

- The number one problem: the bullpen (obviously).
- The number one surprise: the hitting!
- The starting pitching has been good, but not as good as last year.
   - Look for that to change with Kenny Rogers back. He’s 3-0 and has a 1.04 ERA since his return and looks like he will have a huge impact on the second half.
- Todd Jones is shaky at best for closing. He’s had four blown saves already.
   - However, he has some of the most saves in the American League (22). Tough call for Tigers fans.
- Did I mention the bullpen is struggling?
- VERLANDER’S NO HITTER!
- Craig Monroe’s job is on the line. A .223 batting average and mistakes in the outfield will not stand on this team.
- It’s looking like Zumaya might not be back this season. The team can’t count on it…or at least they shouldn’t.
- Trades the Tigers made have been terrible. They got rid of Maroth and Ledezma and what do they have to show for it?
- Granderson’s amazing catch.
- Oh yeah, and the bullpen is TERRIBLE.

Overall, they ended the first half in first place of their division with a 52-34, one game ahead of Cleveland. Not too shabby.

My prediction: the Tigers will win the American League Central, making up for several blunders at the end of last season. There will be another trip to the World Series…hopefully, there won’t be another disappointment.

And that’s my word.

~ Mike D