Bless You Boys: All Posts by Melissa HeyboerA detailed list of nope about the Detroit Tigershttps://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/47585/default.png2014-04-28T06:30:03-04:00https://www.blessyouboys.com/authors/melissa-heyboer/rss2014-04-28T06:30:03-04:002014-04-28T06:30:03-04:00Monday's Links: Detroit's rotation is a mess
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<figcaption>Jesse Johnson-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>The Tigers' rotation is a mess right now, Robbie Ray could replace Anibal Sanchez while he's on the DL, and baseball's worst rule is dead. </p> <h3>
<a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.blessyouboys.com/">Tigers</a> links:</h3>
<p><b>Rainout puts Detroit Tigers' pitching rotation in further flux </b><a href="http://www.freep.com/article/20140427/SPORTS02/304270148/detroit-tigers-rainout-pitching-rotation" target="_blank"><br>etroit Free Press, John Lowe</a></p>
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<p>They already had a few starters going longer than usual between starts this week, even with No. 5 starter <span>Drew Smyly</span> sent back to the bullpen temporarily.</p>
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<p><b>Tigers far from perfect, but again they do enough to win </b><a href="http://www.detroitnews.com/article/20140424/SPORTS0104/304240107/Tigers-far-from-perfect-again-they-do-enough-win" target="_blank"><br>The Detroit News, Lynn Henning</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p><span>Miguel Cabrera</span> drove in three runs, <span>Max Scherzer</span> struck out 10 and the Detroit Tigers beat the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.southsidesox.com/">Chicago White Sox</a>, 7-4, Thursday. Cabrera hit a pair of two-out singles for his RBIs.</p>
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<p><b>Analysis: <span>Robbie Ray</span> appears to be top candidate to replace <span>Anibal Sanchez</span> in rotation for Detroit Tigers </b><a href="http://www.mlive.com/tigers/index.ssf/2014/04/analysis_robbie_ray_appears_to.html" target="_blank"><br>MLive.com, Chris Iott</a></p>
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<p>Ray is 2-2 with a 1.93 ERA and a 1.07 WHIP in four starts for Triple-A Toledo this season.</p>
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<p><b>Tigers Organization Depth Has Gone Missing </b><a href="http://motorcitybengals.com/2014/04/27/tigers-organization-depth-gone-missing/" target="_blank"><br>Motor City Bengals, Chris Hannum</a></p>
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<p>Some of you might be wondering whether the Tigers ought to call up Robbie Ray to make a spot start or two while Anibal Sanchez' torn callous heals.</p>
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<p><b>Shift in Pitch Selection Works well for Drew Smyly </b><a href="http://www.detroittigertales.com/2014/04/shift-in-pitch-selection-works-well-for.html" target="_blank"><br>Tiger Tales, Lee Panas</a></p>
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<p>The Tigers bullpen, specifically right hander <span>Evan Reed</span> and southpaw <span>Ian Krol</span>, blew a lead late and the Tigers lost to the White Sox 6-4 last night.</p>
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<h3>Around the AL Central:</h3>
<p><b><span>Danny Salazar</span> great, but <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.letsgotribe.com/">Indians</a> lose because their offense is terrible </b><a href="http://www.letsgotribe.com/2014/4/27/5659336/giants-indians-score-recap-brandon-hicks-walk-off-home-run" target="_blank"><br>Let's Go Tribe, Jason Lukehart</a></p>
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<p>The Cleveland Indians lost 4-1 on Sunday to the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.mccoveychronicles.com/">San Francisco Giants</a>, wasting a great start by Danny Salazar.</p>
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<p><b><span>Omar Infante</span> drives in six runs, <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.royalsreview.com/">Royals</a> win 9-3 </b><a href="http://www.royalsreview.com/2014/4/27/5659048/omar-infante-drives-in-six-runs-royals-win-9-3" target="_blank"><br>Royals Review, Connor Moylan</a></p>
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<p>Good things happen when you collect extra base hits.</p>
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<p><b>White Sox 9, <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.draysbay.com/">Rays</a> 2: <span>Scott Carroll</span> follows the script </b><a href="http://www.southsidesox.com/2014/4/27/5659186/white-sox-9-rays-2-scott-carroll-follows-the-script" target="_blank"><br>South Side Sox, Jim Margalus</a></p>
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<p>Rookie outduels Tampa Bay ace thanks to errors, <span>Jose Abreu</span></p>
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<p><b>Will Abreu's numbers add up in the stands? </b><a href="http://espn.go.com/blog/sweetspot/post/_/id/46527/will-abreus-numbers-add-up-in-the-stands" target="_blank"><br>SweetSpot Blog, Christina Kahri</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>With first baseman Jose Abreu busting out big in the early going, you can’t help but get a little more excited about the White Sox than you might have been before the season.</p>
</blockquote>
<h3>Elsewhere in baseball:<br>
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<p><b>Common sense prevails with transfer rule update </b><a href="http://mlb.si.com/2014/04/25/transfer-rule-catch-update-replay-mlb/" target="_blank"><br>The Strike Zone, Jay Jaffe</a></p>
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<p>Four weeks into the season, Major League Baseball has ordered umpires to revert to a common-sense approach when ruling on whether a catch has been made, correcting a problem that had sprung up repeatedly as an unintended consequence of the expanded instant replay system.</p>
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<p><b>Baseball’s Worst Rule is Dead </b><a href="http://www.fangraphs.com/blogs/baseballs-worst-rule-is-dead/" target="_blank"><br>FanGraphs Baseball, Dave Cameron</a></p>
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<p>11 days ago, I wrote about baseball’s new definition of a catch, and how the interpretation of the rule created some ridiculous problems for baserunners on fly balls to the outfield.</p>
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<p><b>Simulating and Identifying Platoon Players </b><a href="http://www.hardballtimes.com/simulating-and-identifying-platoon-players/" target="_blank"><br>The Hardball Times, Max Weinstein</a></p>
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<p>Platoons, they are great when they work out.</p>
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<p><b>What If All Baseball Players Were Fat? </b><a href="http://deadspin.com/what-if-all-baseball-players-were-fat-1567600912" target="_blank"><br>Deadspin, Timothy Burke</a></p>
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<p>Upon several viewings of Bartolo Colon's hilarious plate appearances, the Deadspin staff discussed what baseball would be like if every player looked like the husky <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.amazinavenue.com/">Mets</a> hurler.</p>
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<p><b>MLB could re-examine pine tar rules during the offseason </b><a href="http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/mlb-big-league-stew/mlb-could-reexamine-pine-tar-rules-during-the-offseason-192748415.html" target="_blank"><br>Big League Stew, Mark Townsend</a></p>
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<p>Possible changes would not come until after the season.</p>
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https://www.blessyouboys.com/2014/4/28/5659816/detroit-tigers-links-the-tigers-rotation-is-a-mess-robbie-ray-couldMelissa Heyboer2014-04-21T06:30:01-04:002014-04-21T06:30:01-04:00Monday's Links: Examining the Alex Gonzalez trade
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<figcaption>Duane Burleson</figcaption>
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<p>Examining the Alex Gonzalez trade and release, Joe Nathan says the Tigers' bullpen is getting stronger, and does Detroit have baseball's best rotation?</p> <h3>
<a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.blessyouboys.com/">Tigers</a> links:</h3>
<p><b>Behind <span>Max Scherzer</span> and company, Tigers boast MLB's best rotation </b><a href="http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/mlb/news/20140418/best-rotations-in-baseball-detroit-tigers-max-scherzer-drew-smyly/" target="_blank"><br>SI.com, Albert Chen</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>Max Scherzer had a good offseason. He collected his Cy Young Award; married his college sweetheart, Erica May; and spent an "unbelievable" honeymoon in Fiji and New Zealand.</p>
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<p><b><span>Joe Nathan</span> says Tigers bullpen getting stronger </b><a href="http://www.detroitnews.com/article/20140417/SPORTS0104/304170150/0/sports0104/Joe-Nathan-says-Tigers-bullpen-getting-stronger" target="_blank"><br>The Detroit News, Tom Gage</a></p>
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<p>Nathan speaks of the bullpen as the cohesive unit it should be, and often is.</p>
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<p><b>Detroit Tigers GM Dave Dombrowski explains decision to cut ties with <span>Alex Gonzalez</span> (video) </b><a href="http://www.mlive.com/tigers/index.ssf/2014/04/detroit_tigers_gm_dave_dombrow_6.html" target="_blank"><br>MLive.com, James Schmehl</a></p>
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<p>Tigers general manager Dave Dombrowski met with reporters early Sunday to announce the move and explain the team's decision in parting ways with 37-year-old <span>Alex Gonzalez</span>.</p>
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<p><b><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.halosheaven.com/">Angels</a> commit three errors on a single play, leading to a Kinsler run for the Tigers </b><a href="http://opoutofleftfield.blogspot.com/2014/04/angels-commit-three-errors-on-single.html#comment-form" target="_blank"><br>Out of Left Field, Matthew B. Mowery</a></p>
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<p>The Los Angeles Angels ... umm ... had a little trouble defensively against the Tigers on Sunday, committing three errors on one sequence of events in the first inning. And it all started with a walk.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>Re-examining the <span>Alex Gonzalez</span> trade </b><a href="http://beck.mlblogs.com/2014/04/20/re-examining-the-alex-gonzalez-trade/" target="_blank"><br>Beck's Blog, Jason Beck</a></p>
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<p>The first thing that stood out the day the Tigers traded for <span>Alex Gonzalez</span> was the timing.</p>
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<p><b>Tigers picking 'who' and 'I don't know' at SS </b><a href="http://espn.go.com/blog/sweetspot/post/_/id/46250/tigers-picking-who-and-i-dont-know-at-ss" target="_blank"><br>SweetSpot Blog, Christina Kahrl</a></p>
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<p>With apologies to Abbott and Costello, it might seem as if that's where the Tigers are at shortstop after they cut loose Alex Gonzalez.</p>
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<p><b>What Went Right for Rick Porcello Today? </b><a href="http://www.detroittigertales.com/2014/04/what-went-right-for-rick-porcello-today.html" target="_blank"><br>Tiger Tales, Lee Panas</a></p>
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<p>After Rick Porcello's previous start at San Diego, I used Brooks Baseball's Pitch f/x data to touch upon what he did wrong.</p>
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<h3>Around the AL Central:</h3>
<p><b><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.letsgotribe.com/">Indians</a> vs. <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.bluebirdbanter.com/">Blue Jays</a> recap (Sunday): <span>David Murphy's</span> clutch hit guides Tribe to 6-4 win </b><a href="http://www.letsgotribe.com/2014/4/20/5633642/indians-vs-blue-jays-recap-michael-brantley-carlos-carrasco-david-murphy" target="_blank"><br>Let's Go Tribe</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>The Indians defeated the Blue Jays 6-4 thanks to some clutch hitting from David Murphy and <span>Michael Brantley</span></p>
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<p><b>Ventura struggles in <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.royalsreview.com/">Royals</a> 8-3 loss to <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.twinkietown.com/">Twins</a> </b><a href="http://www.royalsreview.com/2014/4/20/5634386/ventura-struggles-in-royals-8-3-loss-to-twins" target="_blank"><br>Royals Review, Connor Moylan</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>Alternate Headline: Twins extinguish Ventura's fire</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>Twins 8, Royals 3: Pinto Homers, Plouffe Rakes as Offense Rolls </b><a href="http://www.twinkietown.com/2014/4/20/5634420/twins-8-royals-3-pinto-homers-plouffe-rakes-as-offense-rolls" target="_blank"><br>Twinkie Town</a></p>
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<p>Minnesota's offense continues its roll with a Pinto homer, three extra-base hits from Plouffe, and yet another eight walks taken.</p>
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<p><b><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.southsidesox.com/">White Sox</a> 16, <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.lonestarball.com/">Rangers</a> 2: No sweep, no normalcy </b><a href="http://www.southsidesox.com/2014/4/20/5634280/white-sox-16-rangers-2-no-sweep-no-normalcy" target="_blank"><br>South Side Sox, Jim Margalus</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>Lots went wrong ... or right ... or both? ... in an easy Easter victory</p>
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<h3>Elsewhere in baseball:<br>
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<p><b>The Rise of the Offensive Catcher </b><a href="http://www.fangraphs.com/blogs/the-rise-of-the-offensive-catcher/" target="_blank"><br>FanGraphs Baseball, Dave Cameron</a></p>
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<p>You probably are well aware that offensive levels in baseball have collapsed over the last few years.</p>
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<p><b>Strikeouts: Definitely Bad, Likely Necessary </b><a href="http://www.hardballtimes.com/strikeouts-definitely-bad-likely-necessary/" target="_blank"><br>The Hardball Times, Dan Farnsworth</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>An analysis of the relationships between strikeouts and total offensive contributions, delving into sources of cause and effect.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>Nats' manager <span>Matt Williams</span> makes rookie mistake benching <span>Bryce Harper</span> </b><a href="http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/mlb-big-league-stew/nats--manager-matt-williams-makes-rookie-mistake-benching-bryce-harper-212451461.html" target="_blank"><br>Big League Stew, David Brown</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>Harper looks like a slacker but it's Williams who needs to put more thought into his managing.</p>
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https://www.blessyouboys.com/2014/4/21/5635190/detroit-tigers-links-examining-the-alex-gonzalez-situation-doesMelissa Heyboer2014-04-14T06:30:02-04:002014-04-14T06:30:02-04:00Monday's Links: Are we worried about Cabrera yet?
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<figcaption>Denis Poroy</figcaption>
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<p>Why you should trust in Dave Dombrowski, there is still time for the Tigers' relievers to heat up, and is it time to start worrying about Miguel Cabrera?</p> <h3>
<a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.blessyouboys.com/">Tigers</a> links:</h3>
<p><b>Tigers manager <span>Brad Ausmus</span> is one cool customer </b><a href="http://www.detroitnews.com/article/20140412/SPORTS0104/304120049/0/SPORTS0104/Tigers-manager-Brad-Ausmus-one-cool-customer" target="_blank"><br>The Detroit News, Jerry Green</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>He is described by the journalists who travel with the Tigers as being 'cool.' And he is - while at the same time he might be regarded as old (somewhat) school.</p>
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<p><b><span>Justin Verlander</span> after first hit: 'I'm just glad that those guys aren't going to make fun of me anymore' </b><a href="http://www.mlive.com/tigers/index.ssf/2014/04/justin_verlander_after_first_h.html" target="_blank"><br>MLive.com, Chris Iott</a></p>
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<p>When he got to first, Verlander tried to act like he was taking it in stride, to put on a face that said "I've been here before."</p>
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<p><b>Tigers' cold relievers have plenty of time to heat up </b><a href="http://www.freep.com/article/20140412/SPORTS02/304120026/Shawn-Windsor-Tigers-cold-relievers-plenty-time-heat-up" target="_blank"><br>Detroit Free Press, Shawn Windsor</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>Sure, the numbers stink now. In fact, they're appalling.</p>
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<p><b>Trust in Dave Dombrowski </b><a href="http://grantland.com/features/dave-dombrowski-detroit-tigers/" target="_blank"><br>Grantland, Rany Jazayerli</a></p>
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<p>Questioning the <span>Doug Fister</span> trade? Doubting the <span>Miguel Cabrera</span> extension? Where Detroit Tigers GM Dave Dombrowski is concerned, faith should replace conventional wisdom.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>Is There Reason to Worry About Tigers' Miguel Cabrera? </b><a href="http://motorcitybengals.com/2014/04/13/reason-worry-tigers-miguel-cabrera/" target="_blank"><br>Motor City Bengals, Josie Parnell</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>Miguel Cabrera is off to a slow start, but Tigers' fans should trust in Miggy to figure it out.</p>
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<p><b>Analysis of <span>Rick Porcello</span>: Game 2 </b><a href="http://www.detroittigertales.com/2014/04/analysis-of-porcello-game-2.html" target="_blank"><br>Tiger Tales, Lee Panas</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>After a good first start last weekend versus the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.camdenchat.com/">Orioles</a>, Tigers right hander Rick Porcello was much less effective in his second second start last night in San Diego.</p>
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<h3>Around the AL Central:</h3>
<p><b><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.letsgotribe.com/">Indians</a> vs. <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.southsidesox.com/">White Sox</a> recap (Sunday): <span>Alexei Ramirez</span> walk-off home run costs Tribe game</b><a href="http://www.letsgotribe.com/2014/4/13/5609936/indians-white-sox-recap-sunday-corey-kluber-alexei-ramirez" target="_blank"><br> Let's Go Tribe, Ash Day</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p><span>Corey Kluber</span> had a great day on the mound and the Indians looked poised to win but Chicago's Alexei Ramirez blew everyone away with a walk-off home run to seal the overall series win for the White Sox.</p>
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<p><b><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.royalsreview.com/">Royals</a> briefly inspire hope, then crush spirits in 4-3 loss </b><a href="http://www.royalsreview.com/2014/4/13/5611088/royals-lose-to-twins-god-help-us-all" target="_blank"><br>Royals Review, Connor Moylan</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>A fitting end for a terrible weekend in Minnesota.</p>
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<p><b><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.twinkietown.com/">Twins</a> Sweep Royals with 4-3 Victory </b><a href="http://www.twinkietown.com/2014/4/13/5611384/mlb-final-score-twins-4-royals-3-wade-davis-error" target="_blank"><br>Twinkie Town</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>Twins sweep Royals by coming back after allowing a come back.</p>
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<h3>Elsewhere in baseball:</h3>
<p><b>The Season Tommy John Took </b><a href="http://grantland.com/the-triangle/matt-moore-baseball-tommy-john-surgery-historic-rate/" target="_blank"><br>The Triangle, Jonah Keri</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>Earlier this week, rising star <span>Matt Moore</span> was diagnosed with a partially torn ulnar collateral ligament in his left pitching elbow. This is simultaneously shocking and all too familiar.</p>
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<p><b>Joe Girardi on resting <span>Derek Jeter</span>: ‘I wasn’t hired to put on a farewell tour.’ </b><a href="http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/mlb-big-league-stew/joe-girardi-resting-derek-jeter-wasn-t-hired-160826685--mlb.html" target="_blank"><br>Big League Stew, Mark Townsend</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>Naturally, <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.pinstripealley.com/">New York Yankees</a> manager Joe Girardi is going to catch some flack this season when he elects to sit shortstop Derek Jeter.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>Time to crack down on substance abuse </b><a href="http://espn.go.com/blog/sweetspot/post/_/id/45896/time-to-crack-down-on-substance-abuse" target="_blank"><br>SweetSpot Blog, David Schoenfield</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>It appears that Thursday night wasn't the first time <span>Michael Pineda</span> had apparently used some sort of foreign substance on his hand.</p>
</blockquote>
<h3>Tigers social:</h3>
<p><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en"><p>Check out the new profile pic! <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%231stHit&amp;src=hash">#1stHit</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/tigers">@tigers</a> <a href="http://t.co/oM8iLh81kL">pic.twitter.com/oM8iLh81kL</a></p>&mdash; Justin Verlander (@JustinVerlander) <a href="https://twitter.com/JustinVerlander/statuses/455208777231261697">April 13, 2014</a></blockquote><br><script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
https://www.blessyouboys.com/2014/4/14/5611876/detroit-tigers-links-worrying-about-miguel-cabrera-why-you-shouldMelissa Heyboer2014-04-11T06:30:01-04:002014-04-11T06:30:01-04:00Friday's Links: The Tigers' bullpen concerns
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<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/81dLgd1EdUDpYljLcLHP0KjDqrI=/0x186:4000x2853/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/31454729/482947755.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Duane Burleson</figcaption>
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<p>Is the Tigers' bullpen a cause for concern (yes, duh), conclusions from the Tigers' first week of the season, and Avisail Garcia is out for the season with a torn labrum in his shoulder. </p> <h3>
<a href="https://www.blessyouboys.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Tigers</a> links:</h3>
<p><b>With bullpen in shambles, Tigers should consider keeping <span>Drew Smyly</span> in relief </b><a target="_blank" href="http://www.detroitnews.com/article/20140410/SPORTS0104/304100074/0/sports0104/With-bullpen-shambles-Tigers-should-consider-keeping-Drew-Smyly-relief"><br>The Detroit News, Tony Paul</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>A few weeks back, in a quiet corner of the Tigers home clubhouse at Joker Marchant Stadium in Lakeland, Drew Smyly sat at his locker, his left arm and shoulder wrapped tight with ice.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>Despite blown save, <span>Joe Nathan</span> is encouraged by outing: 'I've got to feel good about the strides I made' </b><a target="_blank" href="http://www.mlive.com/tigers/index.ssf/2014/04/joe_nathan_encouraged_by_outin.html"><br>MLive.com, Chris Iott</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>Nathan entered the season as the lone pitcher who didn't have any question marks hanging over his head. If he has a great season, the bullpen won't necessarily follow suit. But if he has a poor season, well, it almost certainly will.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>It's early, but Detroit Tigers' bullpen concerns growing daily </b><a target="_blank" href="http://www.freep.com/article/20140410/SPORTS02/140410007/detroit-tigers-bullpen-concerns"><br>Detroit Free Press, John Lowe</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>The Tigers had played six games. The only game in which the bullpen hadn’t given up a run in the ninth inning or later was Opening Day.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>Five Overly Rushed Conclusions From the Tigers’ First Week </b><a target="_blank" href="http://walkoffwoodward.com/?p=9239"><br>Walkoff Woodward, Grey Papke</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>The Tigers have played a week’s worth of games now, so we’ll use this small sample size to draw a bunch of overarching conclusions about the state of the ballclub, because that’s what sports punditry entails.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>The Tigers bullpen will be a real concern later in the 2014 season </b><a target="_blank" href="http://motorcitybengals.com/2014/04/10/tigers-bullpen-will-real-concern-later-2014-season/"><br>Motor City Bengals, Sam O'Toole</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>The Detroit Tigers are off to a 5-2 start, but there are still concerns for the team and it all starts with the bullpen, who has struggled in the first seven games of the 2014 season</p>
</blockquote>
<h3>Around the AL Central:</h3>
<p><b>Indians vs. White Sox recap (Thursday): Salazar makes history, but Tribe loses </b><a target="_blank" href="http://www.letsgotribe.com/2014/4/10/5603316/white-sox-indians-score-recap-thursday-danny-salazar-strikeouts"><br>Let's Go Tribe, Jason Lukehart</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>The Cleveland Indians lost the opener of their four-game series against the White Sox in Chicago, as starting pitcher Danny Salazar made history of a kinda-good, kinda-bad nature.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>White Sox 7, Indians 3: Quick strikes between strikeouts </b><a target="_blank" href="http://www.southsidesox.com/2014/4/10/5603300/white-sox-7-indians-3-quick-strikes-between-strikeouts"><br>South Side Sox, Jim Margalus</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>Danny Salazar makes a kind of history, but Jose Abreu and Co. make it a night he'd rather forget.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b><a href="https://www.athleticsnation.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Athletics</a> 6, <a href="https://www.twinkietown.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Twins</a> 1: Minnesota Swept By Oakland...Again </b><a target="_blank" href="http://www.twinkietown.com/2014/4/10/5602916/athletics-6-twins-1-minnesota-swept-by-oakland-again"><br>Twinkie Town</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>The Twins dropped their third in a row today, as the A's swept the 3-game series in Minnesota.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b><a href="https://www.southsidesox.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">White Sox</a> lose <span>Avisail Garcia</span> for season because of torn labrum in shoulder </b><a target="_blank" href="http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/mlb-big-league-stew/white-sox-lose-avisail-garcia-for-season-because-of-torn-labrum-in-shoulder-201008237.html"><br>Big League Stew, David Brown</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>Garcia was a big part of the present and future, but he's set for surgery next week.</p>
</blockquote>
<h3>Elsewhere in baseball:</h3>
<p><b>Is it time for one MVP, Cy Young and Rookie of the Year award? </b><a target="_blank" href="http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/mlb/news/20140410/awards-watch-combined-awards/"><br>SI.com, Cliff Corcoran</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>With the season less than two weeks old, it's far too soon to break down the candidates for the major player awards in each league.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>Mike Schmidt says umpires should not call balls and strikes </b><a target="_blank" href="http://hardballtalk.nbcsports.com/2014/04/10/mike-schmidt-says-umpires-should-not-call-balls-and-strikes/"><br>HardballTalk, Craig Calcaterra</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>Force Fields? How do they work?</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>The Riser, the Runner, and the Best Fastball to Hit the Majors this Year </b><a target="_blank" href="http://www.hardballtimes.com/the-riser-the-runner-and-the-best-fastball-to-hit-the-majors-this-year/"><br>The Hardball Times, Noah Woodward</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>With spring training in the books and as we begin to forget its many forgettable performances, I recently thought about what I’ll take away from the games I watched.</p>
</blockquote>
<h3>Tigers tweets:</h3>
<p> </p>
<blockquote lang="en" class="twitter-tweet">
<p>Happy <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23NationalSiblingDay&src=hash">#NationalSiblingDay</a> verly32 <a href="http://t.co/NUw2N2hlfh">http://t.co/NUw2N2hlfh</a></p>
— <span>Justin Verlander</span> (@JustinVerlander) <a href="https://twitter.com/JustinVerlander/statuses/454449445959393280">April 11, 2014</a>
</blockquote>
<p><br><script charset="utf-8" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script></p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<blockquote lang="en" class="twitter-tweet">
<p>Off day. San Diego. Could be worse. <a href="http://t.co/po0ZMVFvS0">pic.twitter.com/po0ZMVFvS0</a></p>
— Mario Impemba (@mario_impemba) <a href="https://twitter.com/mario_impemba/statuses/454344723537199104">April 10, 2014</a>
</blockquote>
<p><br><script charset="utf-8" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script></p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<blockquote lang="en" class="twitter-tweet">
<p>All smiles for my <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23GoYardSelfie&src=hash">#GoYardSelfie</a>. Take your own and help me & <a href="https://twitter.com/ScottsLawnCare">@scottslawncare</a> bring the <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23selfie&src=hash">#selfie</a> to the diamond <a href="http://t.co/pUkKkJLy69">pic.twitter.com/pUkKkJLy69</a></p>
— <span>Miguel Cabrera</span> (@MiguelCabrera) <a href="https://twitter.com/MiguelCabrera/statuses/454302882318143488">April 10, 2014</a>
</blockquote>
<p><br><script charset="utf-8" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script></p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<blockquote lang="en" class="twitter-tweet">
<p>Had a chance to meet one of my all time favorite Artists. <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23icecube&src=hash">#icecube</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23steadymobbin&src=hash">#steadymobbin</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23novaseline&src=hash">#novaseline</a>… <a href="http://t.co/mEDQyAdM7Q">http://t.co/mEDQyAdM7Q</a></p>
— <span>Torii Hunter</span> (@toriihunter48) <a href="https://twitter.com/toriihunter48/statuses/454292028034412544">April 10, 2014</a>
</blockquote>
<p><br><script charset="utf-8" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script></p>
https://www.blessyouboys.com/2014/4/11/5603486/detroit-tigers-links-the-tigers-bullpen-concerns-avisail-garcia-isMelissa Heyboer2014-04-09T06:30:04-04:002014-04-09T06:30:04-04:00Wednesday's Links: Miguel Cabrera is amazing
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/rEka7cgyKE7ezs_UMNUbNPnAmBU=/0x389:2731x2210/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/31349157/20140228_jla_sv7_323.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Miguel Cabrera is amazing ... let me count the ways, a look at the man behind Detroit's instant replay system, and Henry Aaron is NOT the home run king. </p> <h3>
<a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.blessyouboys.com/">Tigers</a> links:</h3>
<p><b>What makes Detroit Tigers' <span>Miguel Cabrera</span> so amazing? Players, coaches chime in </b><a href="http://www.freep.com/article/20140408/COL38/304080106" target="_blank"><br>Detroit Free Press, Jeff Seidel</a><br>What makes Cabrera so amazing? As if it's possibly to pin that down. I find a new reason to be amazed by him nearly every time he takes the field or picks up a bat. Also, his goofiness. Also, his speed on the basepaths.</p>
<p><b>Tigers led by cool, calm and collected <span>Brad Ausmus</span> </b><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1516590&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.usatoday.com%2Fstory%2Fsports%2Fmlb%2F2014%2F04%2F07%2Ftigers-led-by-cool-calm-and-collected-brad-ausmus%2F7430269%2F%3FAID%3D10709313%26PID%3D4003003%26SID%3Dra0feicv4jrk&referrer=sbnation.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blessyouboys.com%2F2014%2F4%2F9%2F5596340%2Fdetroit-tigers-links-all-the-reasons-miguel-cabrera-is-amazing-the" target="_blank" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener"><br>USA Today</a><br>Cool, calm, collected ... and also an above-average instant replayer (made that word up).</p>
<p><b>Pressure mounts on Matt Martin, Detroit Tigers' instant replay guy </b><a href="http://www.freep.com/article/20140408/COL08/304080024/drew-sharp-detroit-tigers-video-replay-guy" target="_blank"><br>Detroit Free Press, Drew Sharp</a><br>All eyes are on you, Matt Martin. Don't let us down.</p>
<p><b>Ask Schmehl: How will Detroit Tigers handle <span>Phil Coke</span>? How long will they stick with <span>Alex Gonzalez</span>? </b><a href="http://www.mlive.com/tigers/index.ssf/2014/04/ask_schmehl_7.html" target="_blank"><br>MLive.com, James Schmehl</a><br>When dealing with any Phil Coke questions, just think: WWND. (What would Nickelback do?)</p>
<p><b>Tigers' Joba Chamberlain looks to solidify role in new environment T</b><a href="http://www.detroitnews.com/article/20140408/SPORTS0104/304080075/Tigers-Joba-Chamberlain-looks-solidify-role-new-environment" target="_blank"><br>he Detroit News, Rod Beard</a><br>Well, he can stop "looking to" and actually start doing the solidifying. That would be advantageous of him.</p>
<p><b>The numbers behind the Tigers’ draft debate </b><a href="http://beck.mlblogs.com/2014/04/07/the-numbers-behind-the-tigers-draft-debate/" target="_blank"><br>Beck's Blog, Jason Beck</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>Opening Week has come and gone, and so far, there's no sign of a deal between the Tigers and free-agent shortstop <span>Stephen Drew</span>.</p>
</blockquote>
<h3>Around the AL Central:</h3>
<p><b>Royals squander Ventura gem in 1-0 loss to Devil Rays </b><a href="http://www.royalsreview.com/2014/4/9/5596246/royals-squander-ventura-gem-in-1-0-loss-to-devil-rays" target="_blank"><br>Royals Review, Josh Duggan</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>Ventura straight shoves, but the Royals offense is completely outmatched by the Rays pitching staff.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>White Sox 15, Rockies 3: These aren't last year's Sox </b><a href="http://www.southsidesox.com/2014/4/8/5596314/white-sox-15-rockies-3-these-arent-last-years-sox" target="_blank"><br>South Side Sox, Jim Margalus</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>Six homers -- including two apiece by Jose Abreu and Avisail Garcia -- help Sox top 2013's single-game high in runs.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.letsgotribe.com/">Indians</a> lead big early, hold on late, and beat <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.gaslampball.com/">Padres</a> 8-6 in Tuesday's series opener </b><a href="http://www.letsgotribe.com/2014/4/8/5595916/indians-padres-recap-april-8-corey-kluber-david-murphy-nyjer-morgan" target="_blank"><br>Let's Go Tribe, Jason Lukehart</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>The Cleveland Indians defeated the San Diego Padres 8-3 on a chilly night at Progressive Field, as <span>Corey Kluber</span> did much better than in his previous outing, and <span>David Murphy</span> won over more fans with a big night.</p>
</blockquote>
<h3>Elsewhere in baseball:</h3>
<p><b>Thoughts on the seven-inning game </b><a href="http://espn.go.com/blog/sweetspot/post/_/id/45720/thoughts-on-the-seven-inning-game" target="_blank"><br>SweetSpot Blog, David Schoenfield</a><br>Twelve-inning games, I say. More baseball. Not less.</p>
<p><b>Batkid returns! Tiny superhero saves <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.mccoveychronicles.com/">Giants</a> home opener by throwing out first pitch </b><a href="http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/mlb-big-league-stew/batkid-returns--tiny-superhero-saves-giants-home-opener-by-throwing-out-first-pitch-213124183.html" target="_blank"><br>Big League Stew, Mike Oz</a><br>I wish this kid could be in the news everyday. Just pure awesomeness.</p>
<p><b>Don’t diminish Hank Aaron’s greatness by calling him The Home Run King </b><a href="http://hardballtalk.nbcsports.com/2014/04/08/dont-diminish-hank-aarons-greatness-by-calling-him-the-home-run-king/" target="_blank"><br>HardballTalk, Joe Posnanski</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>Henry Aaron is NOT The Home Run King. That sounds like I’m going to follow with some rant about <span>Barry Bonds</span> breaking his record and how terrible that was … but I’m not.</p>
</blockquote>
<h3>Tigers tweets:</h3>
<p> </p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en">
<p>Off day catch in LA. Of all the random places I've thrown, this takes the cake. Thanks to Kunkel for blocking the CB <a href="http://t.co/zclWmjicBL">pic.twitter.com/zclWmjicBL</a></p>
— Max Scherzer (@Max_Scherzer) <a href="https://twitter.com/Max_Scherzer/statuses/453217465204346881">April 7, 2014</a>
</blockquote>
<p><br><script src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
<p> </p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en">
<p>.<a href="https://twitter.com/PlayStation">@PlayStation</a> we both look good – <a href="https://twitter.com/KingJames">@KingJames</a> Honored to share a cover with you! Do you want a signed copy? jajajaja</p>
— Miguel Cabrera (@MiguelCabrera) <a href="https://twitter.com/MiguelCabrera/statuses/453666734432473088">April 8, 2014</a>
</blockquote>
<p><br><script src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
https://www.blessyouboys.com/2014/4/9/5596340/detroit-tigers-links-all-the-reasons-miguel-cabrera-is-amazing-theMelissa Heyboer2014-04-07T06:30:02-04:002014-04-07T06:30:02-04:00Monday's links: Our love for Ian Kinsler
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/YCPL4gzS0J4arOEI8B5JNLzfLC8=/0x257:2858x2162/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/31242301/20140325_kkt_su8_664.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Detroit Tigers fans may fall in love with Ian Kinsler, the growing pains of rookie Nick Castellanos, and Brayan Villarreal gets a World Series ring.</p> <h3>Tigers links:</h3>
<p><b>ESPN writer: <span>Justin Verlander</span> is MLB's most 'indispensable,' three other Detroit Tigers in top 10 </b><a target="_blank" href="http://www.mlive.com/tigers/index.ssf/2014/04/espn_justin_verlander_is_baseb.html"><br>MLive.com, Josh Slagter</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>Detroit's vulnerability: What if an injury happens to a starting pitcher?</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>Tigers fans could fall in love with <span>Ian Kinsler</span> </b><a target="_blank" href="http://www.detroitnews.com/article/20140406/SPORTS0104/304060016/Tigers-fans-could-fall-love-Ian-Kinsler"><br>The Detroit News, Tony Paul</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>Trying to make sense of what went down at Comerica Park Saturday, when the Tigers held on for dear life to beat the <a href="https://www.camdenchat.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Baltimore Orioles</a>, 7-6, and remain baseball's lone undefeated team.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>Analysis: Detroit Tigers can't get 'W' for Justin Verlander, but a lot to like in strong homestand </b><a target="_blank" href="http://www.mlive.com/tigers/index.ssf/2014/04/analysis_detroit_tigers_come_u.html"><br>MLive.com, James Schmehl</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>The Detroit Tigers refuse to sulk after their 3-1 loss to Baltimore on Sunday. Nor should they. The Tigers finished their season-opening homestand with a 4-1 record, best in baseball.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>One Week In The Books </b><a target="_blank" href="http://www.detroittigertales.com/2014/04/one-week-in-books.html"><br>Tiger Tales, Lee Panas</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>The biggest disappointment so far though has been closer <span>Joe Nathan</span> who has not been sharp at all.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>The Growing Pains of Detroit Tigers' Rookie <span>Nick Castellanos</span> </b><a target="_blank" href="http://motorcitybengals.com/2014/04/06/growing-pains-detroit-tigers-rookie-nick-castellanos/"><br>Motor City Bengals, Josie Parnell</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>Detroit Tigers' rookie Nick Castellanos hasn't been perfect, but has shown drive and talent.</p>
</blockquote>
<h3>Around the AL Central:</h3>
<p><b><a href="https://www.royalsreview.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Royals</a> bullpen, offense flounder in 5-1 loss to <a href="https://www.southsidesox.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">White Sox</a> </b><a target="_blank" href="http://www.royalsreview.com/2014/4/6/5588068/royals-white-sox-game-recap"><br>Royals Review, Connor Moylan</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>Bleh.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b><a href="https://www.letsgotribe.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Indians</a> lose rubber match to <a href="https://www.twinkietown.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Twins</a> as <span>Justin Masterson</span> struggles</b><a target="_blank" href="http://www.letsgotribe.com/2014/4/6/5587970/indians-twins-recap-april-6-justin-masterson-yan-gomes"><br> Let's Go Tribe, Jason Lukehart</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>The Cleveland Indians lost Sunday afternoon's rubber match to the Minnesota Twins by a score of 10-7, as starting pitcher Justin Masterson struggled and the offense couldn't capitalize on a number of opportunities.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>Twins 10, Indians 7: Very Hit, Such Offense</b><a target="_blank" href="http://www.twinkietown.com/2014/4/6/5588110/mlb-final-score-twins-10-indians-7"><br> Twinkie Town</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p><span>Chris Colabello</span>: from independent ball, right into your heart.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>White Sox 5, Royals 1: <span>Chris Sale</span> doesn't blink </b><a target="_blank" href="http://www.southsidesox.com/2014/4/6/5587998/white-sox-5-royals-1-chris-sale-doesnt-blink"><br>South Side Sox, Jim Margalus</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>Ace stops losing streak with eight scoreless innings with help from another late surge</p>
</blockquote>
<h3>Elsewhere in baseball:</h3>
<p><b>The Games are Already Mattering </b><a target="_blank" href="http://www.fangraphs.com/blogs/the-games-are-already-mattering/"><br>FanGraphs Baseball, Jeff Sullivan</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>One of my favorite tools we have here is our Playoff Odds page. I used to make frequent use of Cool Standings, and I keep track of hockey playoff odds at Sports Club Stats.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b><span>Derek Jeter</span> passes Paul Molitor to move into eighth on all-time hit list </b><a target="_blank" href="http://hardballtalk.nbcsports.com/2014/04/06/derek-jeter-passes-paul-molitor-to-move-into-eighth-on-all-time-hit-list/"><br>HardballTalk, Bill Baer</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p><a href="https://www.pinstripealley.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Yankees</a> shortstop Derek Jeter is already a Hall of Famer, but he still has some business with the record books to take care of before his time is up.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b><span>Brayan Villarreal</span> gets <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/world-series" class="sbn-auto-link">World Series</a> ring despite facing (and walking) one batter </b><a target="_blank" href="http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/mlb-big-league-stew/brayan-villarreal-gets-world-series-ring-despite-facing-174036406--mlb.html"><br>Big League Stew, Mark Townsend</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>All contributions are welcomed and appreciated by MLB teams throughout the course of a 162-game schedule.</p>
</blockquote>
<h3>Tigers tweets:</h3>
<p> </p>
<blockquote lang="en" class="twitter-tweet">
<p><span>Omar Vizquel</span> knows pants! What is that velvet? That's beautiful! <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23comingtoamerica&src=hash">#comingtoamerica</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23miggyphotobombing&src=hash">#miggyphotobombing</a> <a href="http://t.co/d5NPblnQ1A">http://t.co/d5NPblnQ1A</a></p>
— <span>Torii Hunter</span> (@toriihunter48) <a href="https://twitter.com/toriihunter48/statuses/452965159150309376">April 7, 2014</a>
</blockquote>
<p><br><script charset="utf-8" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script></p>
https://www.blessyouboys.com/2014/4/7/5588836/detroit-tigers-links-ian-kinsler-nick-castellanosMelissa Heyboer2014-04-02T06:30:01-04:002014-04-02T06:30:01-04:00Wednesday's Links: Tigers' speed on the basepaths
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/Q4PpsnSo0PlUcDV8Lz2GCsrZdF0=/0x32:952x667/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/31009171/143530137.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Christopher Pasatieri</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Is 2014 Detroit's year for speed on the basepaths? Could the Tigers still be interested in Stephen Drew? and 10 observations from the Opening Day games. </p> <h3>
<a href="https://www.blessyouboys.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Tigers</a> links:</h3>
<p><b><span>Miguel Cabrera</span>, When It’s All Said And Done </b><a target="_blank" href="http://www.fangraphs.com/blogs/miguel-cabrera-when-its-all-said-and-done/"><br>FanGraphs Baseball, Tony Blengino</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>The week leading up to Opening Day 2014 turned out to be quite historic, with the clear two best players in the game locked into long-term contracts guaranteeing them nearly a cool half-billion.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>Will the Tigers Break Out on the Basepaths in 2014? </b><a target="_blank" href="http://www.hardballtimes.com/will-the-tigers-break-out-on-the-basepaths-in-2014/"><br>The Hardball Times, Matthew Murphy</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>Over the past three years, the Detroit Tigers have attempted to steal a base 206 times, and were successful on 143 of these attempts.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>Analysis: <span>Stephen Drew</span> may be willing to sign 1-year deal, but Detroit Tigers still likely to pass</b><a target="_blank" href="http://www.mlive.com/tigers/index.ssf/2014/04/analysis_stephen_drew_willing.html"><br> MLive.com, James Schmehl</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>There's no guarantee free-agent shortstop Stephen Drew will sign with a team in the foreseeable future, but speculation has run rampant this past month that Drew would be willing to sign a one-year offer after opening day in early April.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>Detroit Tigers' Dave Dombrowski puts baseball's growth in perspective </b><a target="_blank" href="http://www.freep.com/article/20140401/SPORTS02/304010151/detroit-tigers-dave-dombrowski"><br>Detroit Free Press, Noah Trister</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>Shortly before the start of a spring training game last month, Dave Dombrowski paused briefly to sign a few autographs for fans.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>2014 Detroit Tigers need to avoid another a slow start </b><a target="_blank" href="http://motorcitybengals.com/2014/04/01/another-slow-start-doom-2014-detroit-tigers/"><br>Motor City Bengals, Matt Pelc</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>Despite winning their division three straight years, the Detroit Tigers have been slow starters. Should this continue, it might not be easy to rebound.</p>
</blockquote>
<h3>Elsewhere in baseball:</h3>
<p><b>Meet the MLB team whose players greeted fans at the gates on opening day </b><a target="_blank" href="http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/mlb-big-league-stew/meet-the-mlb-team-whose-players-greet-their-fans-on-opening-day-203901075.html"><br>Big League Stew, Mike Oz</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>The <a href="https://www.draysbay.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Tampa Bay Rays</a> maintained their opening day tradition of players greeting fans when gates opened Monday.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>Harper Being Harper, and More Snap Judgments From Opening Day(s) </b><a target="_blank" href="http://grantland.com/the-triangle/mlb-opening-day-snap-judgments/"><br>Grandland, Michael Baumann</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>The 2014 MLB season is only a day and change old. To borrow a phrase from James Earl Jones’s greatest career role as Admiral James Greer: "The data support no conclusions as yet."</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>Ten observations on Opening Day games </b><a target="_blank" href="http://espn.go.com/blog/sweetspot/post/_/id/45473/ten-observations-on-opening-day-games"><br>SweetSpot Blog, David Schoenfield</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>The first rule of Opening Day: Don't overreact to Opening Day. So these are merely observations from flipping around watching a bunch of different games.</p>
</blockquote>
<p>Mets closer news: Jose Valverde replaces injured Bobby Parnell<br><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/2014/4/1/5572646/mets-closer-jose-valverde-bobby-parnell-injury" target="_blank">SBNation, Bryan Kilpatrick</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>Yes, it's April Fools' Day and the words "Jose Valverde" and "closer" are being mentioned in the same sentence. But it's actually happening, and that might be one of the most Mets things ever.</p>
</blockquote>
<h3>Tigers tweets:</h3>
<p> </p>
<blockquote lang="en" class="twitter-tweet">
<p>April 2nd is Autism Awareness Day. Here is <span>Joe Nathan</span> rocking the light blue for it, y'all do the same. <a href="http://t.co/hhbF0aFOmr">pic.twitter.com/hhbF0aFOmr</a></p>
— <span>Joba Chamberlain</span> (@Joba_44) <a href="https://twitter.com/Joba_44/statuses/451127818303184896">April 1, 2014</a>
</blockquote>
<p><br><script charset="utf-8" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script></p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<blockquote lang="en" class="twitter-tweet">
<p>Driving in Det is an Olympic Slalom skiing event. Driving 75mph weaving back and forth to avoid all the potholes. <a href="http://t.co/nTjrVX8c0J">pic.twitter.com/nTjrVX8c0J</a></p>
— <span>Max Scherzer</span> (@Max_Scherzer) <a href="https://twitter.com/Max_Scherzer/statuses/451059492256354304">April 1, 2014</a>
</blockquote>
<p><br><script charset="utf-8" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script></p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<blockquote lang="en" class="twitter-tweet">
<p>Well played!!.... "<a href="https://twitter.com/chrissteinert3">@chrissteinert3</a>: Anythings fair game for <a href="https://twitter.com/MLB">@MLB</a> opening day <a href="https://twitter.com/tigers">@tigers</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23GoTigers&src=hash">#GoTigers</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23BeatKC&src=hash">#BeatKC</a> <a href="http://t.co/ludLnvxpwO">pic.twitter.com/ludLnvxpwO</a>"</p>
— <span>Justin Verlander</span> (@JustinVerlander) <a href="https://twitter.com/JustinVerlander/statuses/451029375090438145">April 1, 2014</a>
</blockquote>
<p><br><script charset="utf-8" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script></p>
https://www.blessyouboys.com/2014/4/2/5572470/detroit-tigers-links-stephen-drew-miguel-cabrera-jose-valverdeMelissa Heyboer2014-03-31T09:30:02-04:002014-03-31T09:30:02-04:00Monday Links: Opening Day links! Weeee!
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/x6unXw8dH9VD045lnxBt-szKA9Y=/0x45:4000x2712/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/30909741/20140326_sal_mb2_088.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>David Manning-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Guys, these are your Opening Day links. It's Opening Day. I can't believe it's Opening Day. Holy crap, it's Opening Day. </p> <h3>
<a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.blessyouboys.com/">Tigers</a> links:</h3>
<p><b>Detroit Tigers' Opening Day is More Than Just a Game </b><a href="http://motorcitybengals.com/2014/03/30/detroit-tigers-opening-day-just-game/" target="_blank"><br>Motor City Bengals, Josie Parnell</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>For the city, fans and players, the Detroit Tigers' Opening Day festivites mean more than just the start of baseball season.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>Ten Predictions for Tigers Pitchers </b><a href="http://www.detroittigertales.com/2014/03/ten-predictions-for-tigers-pitchers.html" target="_blank"><br>Tiger Tales, Lee Panas</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p><span>Justin Verlander</span> will re-establish himself as the dominant ace of the staff with a 2.75 ERA and 240 strikeouts in 230 innings.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>Will speed finally lead to a <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/world-series">World Series</a> title for the Tigers? </b><a href="http://www.freep.com/article/20140330/SPORTS02/303300082/detroit-tigers-season-preview" target="_blank"><br>Detroit Free Press, John Lowe</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>Contrary to popular mythology, the Tigers didn't lose to Boston in the championship series last October just because the bullpen gave up two late-inning grand slams.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>Justin Verlander puts surgery, last season behind him as he readies to reign again </b><a href="http://www.freep.com/article/20140330/COL01/303300063/mitch-albom-justin-verlander" target="_blank"><br>Detroit Free Press, Mitch Albom</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>Justin Verlander is back. The mound is his. His nickname should be the Institution. He's only 31, yet Monday will mark his seventh straight year as Detroit's Opening Day pitcher.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>Three reasons the Detroit Tigers will win the World Series in 2014; three reasons they will not </b><a href="http://www.mlive.com/tigers/index.ssf/2014/03/three_reasons_the_detroit_tige_3.html" target="_blank"><br>MLive.com, James Schmehl</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>Can the Detroit Tigers return to the American League Championship Series for a fourth straight year? And more importantly, can they win the World Series this time around?</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b><span>Miguel Cabrera</span>’s Historic Extension Is an Unconscionable, Indefensible, All-But-Guaranteed Mistake </b><a href="http://grantland.com/the-triangle/detroit-tigers-sign-miguel-cabrera-to-historic-contract/" target="_blank"><br>Grantland, Jonah Keri</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>To be fair, the Tigers’ decision to make the biggest financial commitment in baseball history isn’t totally without logic.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>Transaction Analysis: To Keep Miguel Cabrera, the Tigers Spend Too Soon </b><a href="http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=23164" target="_blank"><br>Baseball Prospectus, Ben Lindbergh</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>This contract would look completely different if Cabrera were a free agent now.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>Commentary: ESPN analyst's criticism of Tigers' Miguel Cabrera is unwarranted </b><a href="http://www.detroitnews.com/article/20140330/SPORTS0104/303300027/0/sports0104/Commentary-ESPN-analyst-s-criticism-Tigers-Miguel-Cabrera-unwarranted" target="_blank"><br>The Detroit News, Joe Adams</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>This just in: ESPN baseball analyst Keith Law ripped the Tigers for signing Miguel Cabrera to a big deal and praised <span>Mike Trout</span> for signing a big deal with the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.halosheaven.com/">Angels</a>.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>Bullpen deficiency will drop Tigers to third place in 2014 </b><a href="http://www.detroitnews.com/article/20140330/SPORTS0104/303300009/0/sports0104/Bullpen-deficiency-will-drop-Tigers-third-place-2014" target="_blank"><br>The Detroit News, Lynn Henning</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>I'm picking the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.letsgotribe.com/">Indians</a> and <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.royalsreview.com/">Royals</a> to slip by Detroit, with perhaps a two-game difference among them, even when the Tigers have the most muscle at the place that tends to make the biggest difference in big league games: starting pitching.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>Miguel Cabrera’s Terrible and Understandable Contract </b><a href="http://www.fangraphs.com/blogs/miguel-cabreras-terrible-and-understandable-contract/" target="_blank"><br>FanGraphs Baseball, Dave Cameron</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>Yesterday, the Tigers agreed to make Miguel Cabrera the highest paid player in baseball history.</p>
</blockquote>
<h3>Around the AL Central:</h3>
<p><b>2014 Team Previews: Cleveland Indians </b><a href="http://www.beyondtheboxscore.com/2014/3/30/5563822/2014-team-previews-cleveland-indians" target="_blank"><br>Beyond the Box Score, Michael Nestel</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>After letting Sabathia and Lee slip away, the Indians appear revamped and recovered. In 2013, the Tribe saw their first postseason berth since 2007, will they make it two in a row?</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>2014 Team Previews: Kansas City Royals </b><a href="http://www.beyondtheboxscore.com/2014/3/29/5506984/2014-team-previews-kansas-city-royals" target="_blank"><br>Beyond the Box Score, Neil Weinberg</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>The Royals made a big gamble prior to the 2013 season. They didn't play postseason baseball, but they may have set themselves up for another run in 2014.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>2014 Team Previews: <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.southsidesox.com/">Chicago White Sox</a> </b><a href="http://www.beyondtheboxscore.com/2014/3/30/5559072/2014-team-previews-chicago-white-sox" target="_blank"><br>Beyond the Box Score, Ryan Romano</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>2013 wasn't a banner year for the South Siders, and 2014 won't be, either; however, several shrewd moves by new GM Rick Hahn have given hope for a once-dismal future.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>2014 Season Preview: <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.twinkietown.com/">Minnesota Twins</a></b><a href="http://www.beyondtheboxscore.com/2014/3/29/5521814/2014-season-preview-minnesota-twins/in/5294373" target="_blank"><br> Beyond the Box Score, Kevin Ruprecht</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>The Twins are building for the future, but that doesn't mean there are some interesting goings-on for the major league club in 2014. What should we watch for?</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>2014 Team Previews: Detroit Tigers</b><a href="http://www.beyondtheboxscore.com/2014/3/29/5484364/2014-team-preview-detroit-tigers-edition/in/5294373" target="_blank"><br> Beyond the Box Score, Anthony Joshi-Pawlowic</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>The Tigers are still the best bet in the AL Central, but divisions titles alone won't cut it in Motown.</p>
</blockquote>
<h3>Elsewhere in baseball:</h3>
<p><b>Opening Day primer: 30 things you need to know after baseball's busy offseason </b><a href="http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/mlb-big-league-stew/opening-day-primer--30-things-you-should-know-that-happened-this-offseason-080114088.html" target="_blank"><br>Big League Stew, Mike Oz</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>If you stopped paying attention to baseball after the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.overthemonster.com/">Boston Red Sox</a> clinched the World Series in October, here's everything you need to know to get up to speed for opening day.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>Fourteen big questions for 2014 </b><a href="http://espn.go.com/blog/sweetspot/post/_/id/45422/fourteen-big-questions-for-2014" target="_blank"><br>SweetSpot Blog, David Schoenfield</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>It's the third installment of the epic Mike Trout-Miguel Cabrera trilogy, made even more intriguing by the mammoth contracts the two players just signed.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>Opening Day crossword puzzle </b><a href="http://espn.go.com/blog/sweetspot/post/_/id/45450/opening-day-crossword-puzzle-2" target="_blank"><br>SweetSpot Blog, David Schoenfield</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>Though we’ve already had a couple of for real games played in Australia, Opening Day (at least stateside) is finally here.</p>
</blockquote>
<h3>Tigers links:</h3>
<p><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en"><p>Share your favorite <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23OpeningDay&amp;src=hash">#OpeningDay</a> memories by using <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23OpeningDayDET&amp;src=hash">#OpeningDayDET</a>! <a href="http://t.co/8NvpBTZL6T">pic.twitter.com/8NvpBTZL6T</a></p>&mdash; Detroit Tigers (@tigers) <a href="https://twitter.com/tigers/statuses/450005842759127040">March 29, 2014</a></blockquote><br><script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
<p><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en"><p><a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23OpeningDayDET&amp;src=hash">#OpeningDayDET</a> Tips from <a href="https://twitter.com/ComericaParkOps">@ComericaParkOps</a>: Fans are asked to empty their pockets of keys and phones before going through metal detectors.</p>&mdash; Detroit Tigers (@tigers) <a href="https://twitter.com/tigers/statuses/450353981164756992">March 30, 2014</a></blockquote><br><script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
<p><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en"><p><span>Joba Chamberlain</span> says he will open season with the beard, which won in twitter balloting. No shave, two trims since he signed in December.</p>&mdash; Jason Beck (@beckjason) <a href="https://twitter.com/beckjason/statuses/450304838782287872">March 30, 2014</a></blockquote><br><script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
<p><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en"><p>And shirt of the day goes to.......<a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23rajai&amp;src=hash">#rajai</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23al&amp;src=hash">#al</a> Let me know <a href="http://t.co/EiBKnKwfX2">pic.twitter.com/EiBKnKwfX2</a></p>&mdash; Joba Chamberlain (@Joba_44) <a href="https://twitter.com/Joba_44/statuses/449636942918213632">March 28, 2014</a></blockquote><br><script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
https://www.blessyouboys.com/2014/3/31/5565456/detroit-tigers-links-opening-day-links-opening-day-links-opening-dayMelissa Heyboer2014-03-24T06:30:01-04:002014-03-24T06:30:01-04:00Monday's Links: 10 questions facing the Tigers
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/n03teYlC0zyg8eljf1oHxW3ASMU=/0x95:4000x2762/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/30558399/20140320_jla_su8_039.0.jpg" />
</figure>
<p>Tom Gage address 10 questions that the Tigers face as the season gets closer, injuries shouldn't keep Detroit out of a run for the World Series, and Vin Scully is still the best in the business. </p> <h3>
<a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.blessyouboys.com/">Tigers</a> links:</h3>
<p><b>The Tigers discussed a possible comeback for 46-year-old <span>Omar Vizquel</span> </b><a href="http://hardballtalk.nbcsports.com/2014/03/22/the-tigers-discussed-a-possible-comeback-for-46-year-old-omar-vizquel/" target="_blank"><br>HardballTalk, D.J. Short</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>When it was announced that defensive whiz <span>Jose Iglesias</span> would miss most (or all) of the season with stress fractures in both of his legs, the Tigers said they were content with considering internal replacements at shortstop.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>10 questions facing the Tigers as season looms </b><a href="http://www.detroitnews.com/article/20140322/SPORTS0104/303220054/10-questions-facing-Tigers-season-looms" target="_blank"><br>The Detroit News, Tom Gage</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>Tigers open the regular season a week from Monday, but as manager <span>Brad Ausmus</span> said before Saturday's 9-4 loss to the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.bluebirdbanter.com/">Toronto Blue Jays</a>, the team still has a lot 'moving parts right now.'</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>Even with injuries, Tigers still favorite to win American League Central </b><a href="http://www.freep.com/article/20140322/SPORTS02/303220029/Jamie-Samuelsen-s-blog-Even-injuries-Tigers-still-favorite-win-AL-Central" target="_blank"><br>Detroit Free Press, Jamie Samuelsen</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>As you agonize over the injuries and the unsettledness, just keep three names in your mind – Verlander, Scherzer and Sanchez.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>Tigers cut eight more from camp, leaving four real decisions</b><a href="http://opoutofleftfield.blogspot.com/2014/03/tigers-cut-eight-more-from-camp-leaving.html#comment-form" target="_blank"><br>Out of Left Field, Matthew B. Mowery</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>The Tigers trimmed eight from the big-league roster Sunday morning, leaving them with 32 in big league camp.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>30 Tigers in 30 Days: #29 – <span>Al Alburquerque</span> </b><a href="http://walkoffwoodward.com/?p=9118" target="_blank"><br>Walkoff Woodward, Grey Papke</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>Thanks to a 2012 that was mostly aborted thanks to an elbow injury, 2013 was essentially Al Alburquerque’s second full season in the majors.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>Injuries Abound But All is Not Lost for 2014 Detroit Tigers </b><a href="http://motorcitybengals.com/2014/03/23/injuries-abound-lost-2014-detroit-tigers/" target="_blank"><br>Motor City Bengals, Josie Parnell</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>The Detroit Tigers have been injury plagued this Spring, but there are many bright spots to overcome the darkness.</p>
</blockquote>
<h3>Elsewhere in baseball:</h3>
<p><b>The Most Interesting AL Rebuilder: <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.southsidesox.com/">Chicago White Sox</a> </b><a href="http://www.fangraphs.com/blogs/the-most-interesting-al-rebuilder-chicago-white-sox/" target="_blank"><br>FanGraphs Baseball, Tony Blengino </a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>Very quietly, the Chicago White Sox were one of the more successful American League clubs between 2000 and 2012.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>The Heroic Role of the Baseball Villain </b><a href="http://www.hardballtimes.com/the-heroic-role-of-the-baseball-villain/" target="_blank"><br>The Hardball Times, Patrick Dubuque</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>Sports are supposed to be a microcosm of life, a simplified model, one in which the rules make sense and are always the same, where (unlike life) winning and losing are objective concepts.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>Vin Scully welcomes us to <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.truebluela.com/">Dodgers</a> baseball with his best Australian accent </b><a href="http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/mlb-big-league-stew/vin-scully-welcomes-us-dodgers-baseball-best-australia-043114754--mlb.html" target="_blank"><br>Big League Stew, Mark Townsend</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>Is there anything the legendary Vin Scully can't do? Apparently not, even when it comes to welcoming fans to Dodgers baseball from the land Down Under.</p>
</blockquote>
<h3>Tigers tweets:</h3>
<p><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en"><p>A boy <span>Rick Porcello</span> knows needs treatment; he&#39;d like you to sign this petition: <a href="http://t.co/kBByiuDTPT">http://t.co/kBByiuDTPT</a>. 100K signatures needed by 3/29.</p>&mdash; <span>Justin Verlander</span> (@JustinVerlander) <a href="https://twitter.com/JustinVerlander/statuses/447482053479890945">March 22, 2014</a></blockquote><br><script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
<p><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en"><p>Scherzer: &quot;I know we have a great thing here. I&#39;m not saying the grass is greener on the other side. But I want to play this out.&quot;</p>&mdash; Jason Beck (@beckjason) <a href="https://twitter.com/beckjason/statuses/447761476246601728">March 23, 2014</a></blockquote><br><script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
<p><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en"><p>Excited to see that Miley Cyrus is following me. Surprised to see that she only has 12 followers.</p>&mdash; Mario Impemba (@mario_impemba) <a href="https://twitter.com/mario_impemba/statuses/446434921692024832">March 19, 2014</a></blockquote><br><script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
<p><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en"><p>Tweet me your best baseball stories for a chance to win opening day tickets. Use hashtag <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23tixfromjv&amp;src=hash">#tixfromjv</a> to win!</p>&mdash; Justin Verlander (@JustinVerlander) <a href="https://twitter.com/JustinVerlander/statuses/447787886981939200">March 23, 2014</a></blockquote><br><script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
<p><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en"><p>Just once I want to hear a player answer the &quot;What was going through your mind&quot;question with &quot;neurons, electrical currents, the usual stuff&quot;</p>&mdash; Mario Impemba (@mario_impemba) <a href="https://twitter.com/mario_impemba/statuses/446715559086809089">March 20, 2014</a></blockquote><br><script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
https://www.blessyouboys.com/2014/3/24/5539968/detroit-tigers-links-10-questions-facing-tigers-vin-scullyMelissa Heyboer2014-03-17T06:30:01-04:002014-03-17T06:30:01-04:00Monday's Links: Steven Moya's future in Detroit
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/yyIkbZGyBR_qersz3aGjZmnc3Y8=/0x323:4000x2990/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/30186685/20140310_jla_sr6_203.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Scott Rovak-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Steven Moya could be back with the Tigers sooner rather than later, Stephen Drew is not a target for Detroit despite Jose Iglesias' prognosis, and several players shave their heads in support of a pediatric cancer charity. </p> <h3>Tigers links:</h3>
<p><b><a href="https://www.blessyouboys.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Detroit Tigers</a> taking full advantage of 'green light' freedom, finding plenty of success on bases</b><a target="_blank" href="http://www.mlive.com/tigers/index.ssf/2014/03/detroit_tigers_finding_plenty.html"><br> MLive.com, James Schmehl</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>Through 18 games this spring, the Tigers have listened to manager <span>Brad Ausmus</span>, having already swiped a major league-leading 22 bags this spring.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>Free agent <span>Stephen Drew</span> is not the savior in Tigers' thinking </b><a target="_blank" href="http://www.detroitnews.com/article/20140316/SPORTS0104/303160051/Free-agent-Stephen-Drew-not-savior-Tigers-thinking"><br>The Detroit News, Lynn Henning</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>Even with <span>Jose Iglesias</span> out, Tigers GM Dave Dombrowski is not about to forfeit to the <a href="https://www.overthemonster.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Red Sox</a> a first-round prize in a very deep 2014 draft to sign an expensive shortstop who might contribute only marginally more than his existing cast.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>Detroit Tigers prospect <span>Steven Moya</span> sent to Double-A, but maybe not for long </b><a target="_blank" href="http://www.freep.com/article/20140316/SPORTS02/303160097/detroit-tigers-prospect-steven-moya"><br>Detroit Free Press, Anthony Fenech</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>Moya didn't make the team. He was optioned to Double-A Erie on Friday. But if this spring's performance is any indication, and if the Tigers' praise for the youngster rings true, he's going to make the team someday. And that day might be coming sooner rather than later.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>Ranking the best 'core fives' in the majors </b><a target="_blank" href="http://espn.go.com/blog/sweetspot/post/_/id/44992/ranking-the-best-core-fives-in-the-majors"><br>ESPN, David Schoenfield</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>Who has the best core of five players in MLB? David Schoenfield ranks the top 10.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>30 Tigers in 30 Days: #23 — <span>Joba Chamberlain</span> </b><a target="_blank" href="http://walkoffwoodward.com/?p=9084"><br>Walkoff Woodward, Alexandra Simon</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>The arrival of Joba Chamberlain to Detroit continues a recent trend of low to moderate risk/potential high reward power arms being courted and signed by the Tigers.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>2014 Forecast: Tigers Going All the Way This Year </b><a target="_blank" href="http://www.detroittigertales.com/2014/03/2014-forecast-tigers-going-all-way-this.html"><br>Tiger Tales, Lee Panas</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>With opening day about two weeks away, it's time for my predicted standings for 2014.</p>
</blockquote>
<h3>Elsewhere in baseball:</h3>
<p><b>How Speed Affects Isolated Power </b><a target="_blank" href="http://www.hardballtimes.com/how-speed-affects-isolated-power/"><br>The Hardball Times, Jeff Zimmerman</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>People define a hitter’s power in many different forms, with Isolated Power (ISO) being a fairly common method.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b><a href="https://www.draysbay.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Rays</a> shave their heads for a good cause </b><a target="_blank" href="http://hardballtalk.nbcsports.com/2014/03/16/rays-shave-their-heads-for-a-good-cause/"><br>HardballTalk, Drew Silva</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p><span>Matt Joyce</span>, <span>Ben Zobrist</span>, <span>James Loney</span>, and <span>Jake McGee</span> were among the other participants in "Fortune Favors The Bald," a charity event for pediatric cancer.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>Lowell Spinners to wear ugly Christmas sweater uniforms in July </b><a target="_blank" href="http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/mlb-big-league-stew/lowell-spinners-wear-ugly-christmas-sweater-uniforms-july-181921625--mlb.html"><br>Big League Stew, Mark Townsend</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>It's a game of can you top this around the minor leagues in terms of promotional jerseys and everybody is a winner as a result.</p>
</blockquote>
<h3>Tigers tweets:</h3>
<p> </p>
<blockquote lang="en" class="twitter-tweet">
<p>Ausmus was asked if he gets much fan mail in new job. His answer: "Who uses mail?!?"</p>
— Jason Beck (@beckjason) <a href="https://twitter.com/beckjason/statuses/445299233160462336">March 16, 2014</a>
</blockquote>
<p><br><script charset="utf-8" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script></p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<blockquote lang="en" class="twitter-tweet">
<p>Wait. Let me consult my shin manual. "<a href="https://twitter.com/mdparksatmtu">@mdparksatmtu</a>: <a href="https://twitter.com/mario_impemba">@mario_impemba</a> stop retweeting and give us the skinny on Jose and him missing season."</p>
— Mario Impemba (@mario_impemba) <a href="https://twitter.com/mario_impemba/statuses/444977177365192705">March 15, 2014</a>
</blockquote>
<p><br><script charset="utf-8" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script></p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<blockquote lang="en" class="twitter-tweet">
<p>Buzzing my head for <a href="https://twitter.com/PediatricCancer">@PediatricCancer</a> and cut for the cure. Please donate for the kids! <a href="http://t.co/TJKzgbfiBL">http://t.co/TJKzgbfiBL</a> <a href="http://t.co/3hE1HPiYwa">pic.twitter.com/3hE1HPiYwa</a></p>
— <span>Robbie Ray</span> (@robbieray22) <a href="https://twitter.com/robbieray22/statuses/444429344513855488">March 14, 2014</a>
</blockquote>
<p><br><script charset="utf-8" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script></p>
https://www.blessyouboys.com/2014/3/17/5516762/detroit-tigers-links-steven-moya-stephen-drewMelissa Heyboer