Uh, oh!
The Detroit Tigers returned from the Major League Baseball All-Star Game by getting swept by the New York Yankees.
The three losses left the Tigers at 48-42, and depending how the Minnesota Twins and Chicago White Sox did today, Detroit's lead in the American league Central could be around a half game to 2.5 games.
Reliever Joel Zumaya also went on the disabled list.
A tough time for the Tigers. But I have five reason why I think the Tigers will bounce back.
5. Brandon Lyon. After a shaky start, Lyon has picked it up; allowing three earned runs in his last ten appearances. Lyon has been a closer in the past. I think he'll be better suited as the set-up man for closer Fernando Rodney than Zumaya, who looked bad at times this year.
4. Manager Jim Leyland. No matter how bad things get, the veteran skipper will keep this team on course.
3. The starting pitching. The Tigers have studs in their top-two pitchers - Justin Verlander and Edwin Jackson - and rookie Rick Porcello should be solid until the end of August. I think that's when Porcello will slow down. However, jackson and Verlander will be good all year. Add in the fact, Armando Galarrage has lowered his walk totals and Lucas French has a 1.89 ERA after five appearances and looked strong against the Yankees (one earned run in five innings), the rotation should be formidable all season.
2. Trade for a left-handed bat. I am not sure who is on the trading block, but the Tigers need to find a batter that can hit from the left side of the plate.
1. Carlos Guillen. Guillen, a switch hitter, can provide a much-needed boost to the offense when he gets back from his injury rehab assignment. Guillen isn't the best hitter on the team, but he really provides a spark. Even when he returns, that shouldn't stop Detroit from trying to get another bat through a trade.
Until next time, enjoy Michigan and Gooooo TIGERS!!!!
