Nate Robertson (6-7, 4.63) vs. 
Jered Weaver (6-5, 3.30), 10:05 p.m. EST
Okay, I took an early evening nap and chugged some coffee, so I'm ready for some west coast start times. Who's with me? (I'm so glad tomorrow is Saturday.)
When the Tigers faced Jered Weaver on their first visit to Anaheim back in April, they beat him like a dirty rug. It started right away when Curtis Granderson led off the game with a home run. Weaver only lasted 1 2/3 innings, giving up seven runs (five earned) on seven hits. In fairness, he was still working his way back after a bout with biceps tendonitis, so it's probably too much to expect a repeat performance tonight. Plus, Weaver has been pitching very well lately, allowing three runs or less in his past seven starts.
After looking as if everything had finally clicked for him with seven scoreless innings against the Twins, Nate Robertson brought back the question marks by getting beat up by the Royals in his last start. Kansas City hung five runs (four earned) on him with 11 hits over six innings. So which Nate will show up tonight? Hopefully, not the one that has an 0-3 record and 8.13 ERA in six career starts versus the Angels.
Gary Sheffield is back in the lineup tonight after receiving a cortisone shot for his sore shoulder. However, the Tigers will be without Zach Miner, who has left the team for a family emergency. Miner was placed on the bereavement list, which means he'll be away for at least three days (but no more than seven). Taking his place in the bullpen will be Jose Capellan, who was recalled from Triple-A Toledo. (via The Detroit Tigers Weblog)
This has the makings of a big series. It's certainly a measuring stick, as the Angels are one of the top teams in the American League. And if they get some hitting help at the trade deadline (Paul Konerko?), they'll be even more dangerous.
Your SB Nation opposing view for the next three games comes from the Rev. Halofan and his congregation at Halos Heaven.