Justin Verlander (5-2, 3.44) vs. 
Kevin Millwood (2-4, 6.69), 8:35 p.m. EST
The good news for the Tigers is that Verlander has been much better in his last five starts than Nate Robertson was in his previous five. The possible bad news is that Verlander might have had the worst start of his career last Friday in Cleveland. But before that game, he wasn't struggling as Robertson had been. In fact, he pitched extremely well. So his chances of bouncing back with a strong effort tonight look pretty good.
Can Millwood bounce back, as well? In his first start after coming off the 15-day disabled list (strained left hamstring), Seattle pounded him for 10 hits and seven runs (four earned) in five innings. Surprisingly, he escaped with a no-decision. Before going on the DL, however, Millwood took the loss in three of his previous four outings. In his last five starts, Millwood is 0-3 with an 8.87 ERA.
Short Hops: (ESPN.com edition)
▪▪ Jeff Pearlman thinks Gary Sheffield is a "dangerous moron."
▪▪ Jemele Hill agrees with Sheffield's premise to a point, but says his reasoning isn't quite right.
▪▪ Curtis Granderson thinks back to five years ago, when he was drafted.