That was a big, big win by the Tigers Thursday night against the Mets in New York.
Not only did it stop the bleeding from lethargic losses the previous two nights, but it allowed the Tigers to move to within a half-game of the American League Central lead and the Twins. It held off the White Sox, who have won nine straight games and are only two behind the Tigers. It took some pressure off Andrew Oliver in his major league debut tonight in Atlanta.
It was also the way the Tigers won, by holding the off the Mets in the late innings. Great effort by the bullpen when it wasn't necessarily going well.
Also, some role players are starting to come through for the Tigers. Ryan Raburn sure did Thursday. Oh, and Brandon Inge is playing well.
The bullpen certainly saved the day. Coke and Zumaya have been great, and Valverde is a man among boys.
ReplyDeleteBut I wouldn't mind seeing Thomas cut or Ni sent down for a bit to bring up Schlereth and see what he can do.
I'm somewhat surprised, Pat, that you call this "huge" .. you, mister experienced sports writer, that keeps things into perspective.
ReplyDeleteYeah, we saved a sweep from a good team and have gained some ground on Minny but in the scheme of a season, it was just a win, but a good win when a couple players produced like a good team is supposed to do.
The Minny series is huge .. these guys have to earn their salary in this series.
Book - who'd er thunk we would be a game better after that series eh?
ReplyDeleteNow the Twins face the Mets while we battle the Braves - this may be very interesting in deed.
Who would have thunk it.
This season will be defined from July 19th thru Aug 19th inclusively.
ReplyDeleteTigers play Texas(3), Toronto(4), Tampa Bay(4), Boston(4), White Sox(3), LAA(3), Tampa Bay(3), White Sox(3) and the Yankees(4).
What a tough stretch!!
Michael C,
ReplyDeleteThey have another situation just like the one Thursday going into Sunday's game in Atlanta. We'll see if they respond the same way.
Caputo
Anonynous,
ReplyDeleteMy point is it did prevent what would be, after they have lost two games to Atlanta, what would have been a mounting losing streak.
Caputo
Fred Brill,
ReplyDeleteSuffice to say, big series in Minny to start next week.
Caputo
Anonymous,
ReplyDeleteGiven the Tigers propensity to lose on the road, they'd be wise not to be in position where they need to makeup ground during that stretch.
Caputo