Like Stripes On the Fur Coat of a Tiger - 03/14

 The secret to Pudge Rodriguez's power surge during Spring Training?  It's about what you'd think: He lifted heavier weights this winter.  For what it's worth at this time of year, Pudge's six home runs are more than anyone else has hit this spring.

 If you're wondering how the Detroit Tigers got their name, Benson Pebbles has provided origins for all 30 MLB team names. Some are much more interesting than others.  Fortunately, the Tigers fall into the former category.  At least the reason for their name isn't as simple an explanation as choosing the state bird.  (via Big League Stew)

 Speaking of Big League Stew, a grateful tip of the cap goes to 'Duk for mentioning BYB in an interview last week with Red Sox Monster.  If you haven't been reading BLS, you're missing out on a lot of fun stuff every day.

 With the Giants trying to swindle the White Sox in trade offers for Joe Crede, it would be interesting to find out what the Tigers have been offered - if anything - in return for Brandon Inge.

 At his blog for the KC Star (I just can't call it "Ball Star" - I'm sorry), Sam Mellinger wonders if fans care about athletes acting like pricks toward the media.  (A little bird told me that Erik Bedard began his post-game chat with writers by saying he'd take four questions.  When one asked, "Really?" Bedard responded, "That's one.")

My guess would be that most fans don't care, though I imagine many would say it's part of an athlete's job to speak with the press.  Fortunately for all involved, I don't think this is much of a problem in the Tigers' clubhouse.

 Given that Baseball Musings has linked to BYB a couple of times recently (for which I'm very thankful), it only seems considerate to mention that its annual pledge drive is underway.  As you probably know already, David Pinto provides valuable information and provides some great directions around the baseball blogosphere, and we all benefit from his work.  So if you're so inclined, please consider making a contribution.