Roy Halladay (0-0, 0.00) vs. Jeremy Bonderman (0-0, 0.00).
Okay, this is my first time doing one of these, so bear with me a bit. I've heard Bonderman as a popular pick to win the AL Cy Young Award, but maybe that's looking at things through Tigers-colored glasses. The pitcher for the other team, however, could very well win it. (And if Johan Santana somehow looks less superhuman this season, I think Halladay will win the trophy.)
Will the Tigers come out a bit content and hazy after unfurling their American League championship banner before the game and soaking in the adulation of a city that absolutely adores them right now? They might. Last year, this team didn't respond too well when lots of people showed them love and told them they were great. On the other hand, I think these guys have been ready to play some real baseball for a while now and might just relish the opportunity.
But Halladay is a rough test to begin with. And the Blue Jays should be a contender in the AL East all season. They might want to pounce on the Tigers after watching them eat up all that glory from the home crowd.
Please chime in with comments during the game and afterwards, if you're so inclined. It'd be fun to get some really good discussion with some regulars throughout the season. Let's play ball!