Jorge De La Rosa (7-10, 5.25) vs. 
Justin Verlander (11-3, 3.26), 7:05 p.m. EST
It's Negro Leagues Tribute night at the ballpark, with the Royals and Tigers suited up like the Monarchs and Stars. Here's a question I'd love to get some thoughts on: Is it okay for white guys to roll with Negro Leagues gear? I see no reason why not, but I'm curious what you have to say on the matter.
Via Jason Beck, some of the regulars will be getting a break tonight and tomorrow in anticipation of the upcoming five-game slog with the White Sox (including Tuesday's doubleheader). Carlos Guillen has the night off, while Magglio Ordonez and Gary Sheffield swap right field and DH spots. Lineups will be posted in the comments.
Jorge De La Rosa was roughed up in his last start vs. the Indians, and there likely won't be a turnaround tonight, since he's left-handed and these are the Tigers. (.298/.356/.500 against lefties.) However, De La Rosa pitched very well against Detroit in his first start this season, giving up only one run and four hits in seven innings. Of course, the Tigers seemed like a different team back in April.
Justin Verlander got knocked around a bit by the Mariners last Sunday, but it ultimately didn't matter because 1) Jeff Weaver was pitching for Seattle, and 2) Jamie Burke couldn't even throw out Sean Casey stealing second base. This season against Kansas City, Verlander is 2-0 with a 2.37 ERA in 19 innings.
And if you were thinking, "Hey, this Royals team looks pretty good," Royals Review confirms that you're onto something. 42 wins is the most they've had at this point since 2003.
Short Hops:
▪▪ The Tigers signed three of their 2007 draft choices. Pitchers Luke Putkonen, Jonathan Kibler, and Richard Zumaya will each report to Class A Lakeland.