Justin Verlander (16-7, 3.29) vs. 
Robinson Tejada (1-1, 3.61), 8:10 p.m. EST
The Tigers had their six-game winning streak broken by the Royals last night (blowing a three-run lead in the process). Can they get a new streak going with their ace taking the mound?
Justin Verlander has won his past three starts, the last two of which were victories over the Tampa Bay Rays and Jeff Niemann. His last start was particularly dominant, as he held the Rays to one run and four hits over eight innings, while the Tigers' lineup finally mounted some offense against the Tampa bullpen. A win tonight would give him the American League lead in that category, and might further build his case for the AL Cy Young Award.
Robinson Tejada fills Gil Meche's turn in the Royals' rotation, as he's getting a rest for shoulder fatigue. Tejada was outstanding in his last start, allowing just one hit in 5.1 innings, with six strikeouts and two walks. He hasn't given up a run in 13 straight innings, allowing only two hits during that span. Tejada has faced the Tigers twice this season, both times in relief. In 1.1 innings, Detroit got two runs and three hits against him.
Clete Thomas gets the start in right field, giving Magglio Ordonez the night off. Kind of a curious decision, as Maggs is 2-for-4 against Tejada. Could Jim Leyland be putting Clete out there to forget about not getting to that foul ball last night?