Jose Contreras (1-2, 6.00) vs. Nate Robertson (2-1, 1.80)
First of all, shouldn't all Saturday games be matinees? I'm sure there are arguments to be made on both sides for what's actually better for the bars and restaurants surrounding Comerica Park, and numbers to back up each point. During the day, do people go to the game and then get on the highway immediately, rather than hang-out for post-game spirits? At night, do most of us get food and drinks before heading to the ballpark?
Of course, you can get a lot more done when you have the day free, and with the nice weather we have today, it's a good time to take on that yard work. Apologies for the tangent, but I'm curious what preferences are for Saturday games, and if I'm in the minority on this one.
Onto the game, Contreras was El Stinko in his first start of the season, but seems to have settled down a bit since then. He's only given up one run in his last two games, but has issued quite a few walks. So if the Tigers can be patient at the plate today, Contreras might help them out.
Robertson, however, has been outstanding and probably Detroit's second-best starting pitcher this season. As usual, however, run support continues to be a problem, and that could be an issue if Contreras has his good stuff today. But maybe today's warmer weather at Comerica Park will finally heat up those Tigers bats. Something else to consider is that the White Sox are hitting .174 against left-handed pitching thus far.
Possible Stat of the Day: Contreras has no wins in his last six starts against AL Central opponents.
Other Possible Stat of the Day: Carlos Guillen has a .370 average (10-for-27) against Contreras.