Detroit Tigers (7-9) at Seattle Mariners (5-11)
Probable Pitchers:
Monday April 18, 10:10p: RHP Max Scherzer (2-0, 4.76) vs. LHP Jason Vargas (0-1, 4.86)
Lineup Notes:
Victor Martinez got the afternoon off in Oakland on Sunday due to a tweaked groin. With a lefty on the mound for Seattle, Victor would normally catch giving the lefty Avila the day off. If his groin is still bothering him today, he will likely stay at DH or get another day off. Although Will Rhymes has batted against lefties this season, he is still struggling at the plate. Expect to see Ramon Santiago at second base today.
To Fear or Fail:
DET - Max Scherzer (2-0, 1.93 ERA, 3 BB, 11 K vs. Seattle)
Hitter to Fear: Jack Cust (1 for 2, 2B vs. Scherzer)
Hitter to Fail: Miguel Olivo (0 for 3, 2 K vs. Scherzer)
SEA - Jason Vargas (0-1, 7.71 ERA, 4 BB, 6 K vs. Detroit)
Hitter to Fear: Magglio Ordonez (3 for 6, 2 2B, 1 HR, 3 RBI vs. Vargas)
Hitter to Fail: Brandon Inge (.250, 1 K vs. Vargas)
Analysis:
If Magglio Ordonez sits for today's game, it is good to note the Brennan Boesch is 4 for 6 with a double against Vargas. Scherzer leads the starters with 2 wins and is the only starter without a loss. He has struggled with his command this season but has looked like himself with runners in scoring position. Getting outs when they really matter is why he's 2-0. If he can find his command tonight there's no reason to bet against the Tigers.