David Price (6-6, 4.93) vs. 
Nate Robertson (1-0, 7.71), 4:05 p.m. EST
The Tigers got this weekend's series off to a good start by hanging six runs on Matt Garza. Can they keep the run machine going through the weekend?
David Price comes off a tough loss to the Rangers in which he allowed only three runs and three hits in seven innings. But the Rays lineup was shut down by Scott Feldman. If there's one big weakness in Price's game right now, it seems to be running up high pitch counts. But making pitchers work hasn't exactly been the Tigers' specialty. On the road this season, Price has an 0-4 record and 8.09 ERA in seven starts.
Well, well, well... look who's back. Nate Robertson returns to the Tigers' pitching staff after surgery to remove four fibrous masses from his elbow. He's making his first start since September of last year, filling in for Armando Galarraga, who's giving his sore elbow a rest. Robertson's last rehab start was a good one, as he allowed only three hits in 6.2 innings. And he struck out 21 batters in 19 innings overall, which would seem to indicate that he's got that slider working.
I know several Tigers fans and bloggers are excited about watching Nate pitch today. And I certainly hope he pitches well today. That would be a huge asset to the Tigers in their playoff chase. But as much as I want to share in the anticipation, I think my feelings on Mr. Robertson have been pretty consistent. I might have to spend the beginning of this game at the movies.
Today's game is on FOX, but saying it's on "national television" is a bit of a stretch. This will be third on the regional coverage totem pole, going out to 15% of the country. So if you live in the Detroit or Tampa markets, or one of the markets involved in the AL Central or Wild Cards races (Boston, Dallas, Minneapolis... Chicago is getting Mets-Cubs; good decision there, FOX.) Kenny Albert and Mark Grace on the call.
(via Awful Announcing)