Scott Baker (14-9, 4.48) vs. 
Nate Robertson (2-2, 5.56), 1:05 p.m. EST
I've become pretty jinx-conscious in writing these GameThread posts, so I hesitate to say exactly what could happen this afternoon at Comerica Park if the Tigers win. But it would be pretty cool. And something that hasn't taken place in 22 years. Tiger Town feels ready for it.
Pitching for the Twins, Scott Baker beat the Royals in his last start, despite giving up four runs (and two homers). That gave him eight runs allowed in his last two games, one of which was against the Tigers. This season versus Detroit, Baker has a 0-1 record and 9.00 ERA in three starts. But he's 8-4 with a 4.40 ERA on the road this year. And at Comerica Park over his career, Baker is 2-1 with a 4.32 ERA in five starts.
Did I mention Baker leads the Twins in wins? I should probably mention that. 14 wins. That's quite a few of 'em.
Nate Robertson received the bailout of the season from his lineup his last time out. Despite giving up six runs (five earned) in just over three innings against the White Sox, Robertson didn't take the loss as the Tigers scored 12 unanswered runs, staging one of their most impressive comebacks in recent memory.
In his start before that, Robertson held the Twins to two runs at the Metrodome (along with a season-high five strikeouts), helping Detroit salvage a much needed win.
The only notable lineup change today is Placido Polanco getting the day off. (Nothing's wrong, according to Jason Beck.) Marcus Thames gets the start at designated hitter, but with his record against Baker (.292 average, four homers, six RBIs), he was bound to be in there.