I have seen a couple baseball preview magazines. The Sporting News and Lindy's are both picking the Tigers to place third in the American League Central behind the Twins and the White Sox. Each has Kansas City fourth and Cleveland fifth. The Sporting News is projecting Austin Jackson to be the American League Rookie of the Year. They also project Jeff Larish, Wilkin Ramirez and Brett Dlugach being in the Tigers' opening day 2012 lineup. If that is, indeed, the case, the Tigers future isn't very bright.
The Tigers are actually getting more respect this season than last, although it might because of a lack of regard t for the A.L. Central. Last year, for example, The Sporting News picked the Tigers to place last.
Believe it or not, the consensus pick to win the A.L. Central last year was Cleveland. On the first day of February, this is how I see the A.L. Central playing out in 2010:
1. Minnesota
2. Detroit
3. Kansas City
4. Chicago
5. Cleveland
I think the White Sox have spent a lot of money, but not wisely. I see the Royals as being a little better than in the past, but not necessarily a .500 team. I see the Tigers as .500 or slightly better because of their pitching. My final predictions will come near opening day.

My column in Monday's Oakland Press. Impressions of Senior Bowl and Lions upcoming draft http://tinyurl.com/ycg2mj9

My column in Sunday's Oakland Press: If the Red Wings Leave Joe Louis Arena, it must be for The Palace. http://tinyurl.com/yga23tk