Morning Prowl: Spring Recaps, Bold Predictions, and AL Central Injuries

by Ian Casselberry on Feb 26, 2009 8:00 AM EST in News Comment 4 comments

For a first-hand account of yesterday's Grapefruit League opener, check out Sean's account at Trumbull and Michigan with interesting anecdotes galore (followed by an excellent rant).

According to Jason Beck, the pitchers facing the Nationals today will be Edwin Jackson, Nate Robertson, Rick Porcello, Joel Zumaya, Clay Rapada, and Macay McBride.

If Take 75 North is right about how the West Michigan pitching rotation will look, with two to three notable prospects, Comstock Park might be a fun place to watch some baseball this season.

After visiting Lakeland to check out the team, Peter Gammons thinks the Tigers might exceed expectations in 2009.

Following up on his comments here after yesterday's game, Bob posted his thoughts on the Tigers' first spring game at Detroit4lyfe and sees a team that's going to surprise people this year.

With a look at Fernando Rodney, The Daily Fungo continues its 2009 player profiles. You know, these would've looked great in some sort of paperback annual devoted to the Detroit Tigers. Alas...

Tiger Geist is excited about Detroit's outfield prospects getting lots of playing time, with the regular starters off to play in the World Baseball Classic.

If you're still disappointed that the Tigers didn't sign Kerry Wood this offseason, consider that he's already sitting out with a sore back. However, Anthony Castrovince says Wood is scheduled to throw a bullpen session on Friday.

In other AL Central news, the Twins have lost Boof Bonser for the season, as he's in need of shoulder surgery. Why is this disappointing if you're a Tigers fan? Bonser gave up 17 runs (14 earned) in 12.1 innings against Detroit last year.

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Not the Boofer!

That sucks though, hope he gets better. I kind of like Boofer.

by Zappatista on Feb 26, 2009 8:24 AM EST reply actions 0 recs

Gammons....

That is actually a very nice piece. Very realistic and grounded.

by Zappatista on Feb 26, 2009 8:36 AM EST reply actions 0 recs

We're one game in

Injuries could always be a factor, pitching says their back but still has to prove it and luck has a lot to do with how the team plays. I’m not saying they are only winning 74 games this year, but let’s hold off giving them the AL crown before they play a few meaningful games.

by ReichardZ on Feb 26, 2009 9:27 AM EST reply actions 0 recs

Re: one game in

I actually agree with Reichard… as impressed as I am with Edwin Jackson’s performance yesterday, let’s see him do that when the games really start to count in April.

Having said that, I don’t think anyone is giving the AL Central Division Title to the Tigers yet, much less the pennant. If Verlander and Bonderman can lead this rotation and the offense hits the way they’re capable of (not to mention if Lyon solidifies the bullpen from the closer position), this Tigers team is as good as any in the division.

On to today’s game: The Tigers will visit the Blue Jays in Dunedin this afternoon at 1:05. Armando Galarraga will start for Detroit, Matt Clement for Toronto. Dontrelle Willis, Fernando Rodney, Scott Williamson, Juan Rincon and Chris Lambert will follow Galarraga to the mound. No radio today, but there will be radio tomorrow against the Mets and Sunday against the Pirates.

by Todd1005fm on Feb 27, 2009 6:31 AM EST reply actions 0 recs