Matt Garza (11-9, 3.66) vs. Dontrelle Willis (0-2, 10.61)

The Detroit Tigers might actually be on something of a roll, and who would've guessed that with the now-champions of the AL East in town?  But the smooth cruise of a modest two-game winning streak might hit a huge pothole with tonight's starting pitcher of choice. 

Any good will Dontrelle Willis might have engendered with his return to the starting rotation two weeks ago in Texas was squandered away with a disastrous outing last Sunday against the Indians.  Six runs and six walks in just 2 1/3 innings put his future with the Tigers back in doubt.  Jim Leyland wants Willis to pitch in winter ball, but it sounds as if the D-Train would prefer not to.  If he throws another stinker today, the Tigers might lean on Willis more heavily. 

Matt Garza is on a four-game winless streak, but should probably get some slack for his last outing, as he pitched on three days' rest.  The Rays skipped his turn through the rotation last week to give him some extra recovery time, so he could be rather refreshed tonight against the Tigers.  In four career starts vs. Detroit, each while he was with the Minnesota Twins, Garza has an 0-3 record and 4.84 ERA.

Get to the ballpark a bit early tonight, as the Tigers will honor Todd Jones with a pre-game ceremony.  That's scheduled to take place at 6:50 p.m., 15 minutes before the first pitch.  Send Jonesy off into retirement the classy way, Detroit.