Edwin Jackson (1-2, 3.08) vs.
Fausto Carmona (1-3, 6.11), 7:05 p.m. EST
Hopefully, we don't have to repeat this qualifier throughout the season, but Edwin Jackson has certainly pitched better this year than his numbers indicate. (Although that ERA is a pretty good indicator.) In his previous start, Jackson threw one-run ball for six innings before the Twins hung another three on him. Had he gotten some run support earlier in the game, perhaps it wouldn't have come to that.
Considering the Tigers have only scored one run in their last 22 innings, however, maybe Jackson should expect another less than supportive effort from his lineup tonight.
Like Jackson, Fausto Carmona is also winless in his last three starts. But he hasn't been quite as stingy in allowing runs, and his offense may have even bailed him out of a couple more losses this season. Carmona went undefeated against the Tigers last season, going 3-0 in four starts with a 3.91 ERA. His career record versus Detroit is 6-2 with a 3.57 ERA in 12 appearances.
With the Tigers facing a right-handed starter for the first time in two games, Josh Anderson returns to the lineup. Jeff Larish also gets a start tonight, subbing at first base for Miguel Cabrera, who will DH. And with Clete Thomas likely playing again in right field, Magglio Ordonez will get the night off. (As Jason Beck points out, lefties are batting .329/.418/.570 against Carmona this season.)