Bless You Boys - Game 46: Twins at TigersA detailed list of nope about the Detroit Tigershttps://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/47585/default.png2013-05-25T07:00:09-04:00http://www.blessyouboys.com/rss/stream/41272492013-05-25T07:00:09-04:002013-05-25T07:00:09-04:00Sanchez extension paying off
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/jk6H21FG8hPHJ9nJZ-_d6Pjewjo=/0x258:3033x2280/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/13625101/169441219.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Duane Burleson</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Some questioned the Tigers for their decision to give Sanchez $80 million. The early returns on the deal have looked bright so far.</p> <p>I find the best time to look back at how a decision is paying off is directly after something really good or really bad has happened. Today, for instance, is a great time to check in with <span>Anibal Sanchez</span> and to draw a sweeping conclusion.</p>
<p>Over the offseason, he signed a five-year contract with the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.blessyouboys.com/">Tigers</a> worth about $80 million. Already this year he's set the <a target="_blank" href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/4/26/4272704/anibal-sanchez-detroit-tigers-franchise-record-17-strikeouts-atlanta-braves">Tigers' franchise-record for strikeouts in a nine-inning game with 17</a>. Friday he came within two outs of pitching a no-hitter and looked dominating for most of that game. He improved to 5-4 on the year (three of those were of the tough-luck variety) with a 2.38 ERA. He leads all of baseball with a 1.75 FIP.</p>
<p>Welp, the signing looks pretty good to me!</p>
<p>Some writers might institute the twist here, pulling the rug out and saying "but let's go a little deeper." (Pretty sure I've described the pattern of every column I write now that I think of it.) But there is no twist here.</p>
<p>Since fixing a blip in his mechanics last August, Sanchez is thriving in Detroit. Any fears about how his stuff would translate to the AL -- some fears always exist when a player leaves the NL -- should be put to rest now. His strikeout figures have gone up in Detroit. His walk rate has remained steady. He has used that to thrive in front of a Tigers defense that isn't quite as capable as ... well, many other defenses. His batting average on balls in play this season is actually .327, which is more than 20 points worse than his career average.</p>
<p>Can Sanchez keep it up? Well, given everything I've just written, it's hard to answer anything but "sure." Of course, numbers so stellar do invite the likelihood he'll take a step or two back. It's just hard to see anything that flashes a warning sign.</p>
<p>GM Dave Dombrowski's decision to trade for Sanchez and <span>Omar Infante</span> last summer helped put two of the final key pieces onto the roster, getting Detroit to the World Series. Keeping Sanchez in Detroit after that has paid dividends already -- and will likely continue to do so for seasons to come.</p>
<p> </p>
<h4>More Roars:</h4>
<p>• <a href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/5/24/4364220/tigers-6-twins-0-detroit-minnesota--anibal-sanchez-loses-no-hitter-joe-mauer-single?utm_source=blessyouboys&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=moreroars">Tigers 6, Twins 0: Sanchez masterful</a></p>
<p>• <a href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/5/24/4364182/anibal-sanchez-no-hitter-tigers-twins-may-24?utm_source=blessyouboys&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=moreroars">Sanchez loses no-hitter in 9th</a></p>
<p>• <a href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/5/24/4361670/tiger-beat-magazine-gets-a-gritty-reboot?utm_source=blessyouboys&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=moreroars">Tiger Beat Magazine gets a gritty reboot</a></p>
<p>• <a href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/5/24/4362446/miguel-cabrera-triple-crown-rbi-record-tigers?utm_source=blessyouboys&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=moreroars">Miguel Cabrera’s superlative year</a> | <a href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/5/24/4362938/miguel-cabrera-gif-6-hr-fangraphs?utm_source=blessyouboys&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=moreroars">And plate coverage</a></p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.twitter.com/blessyouboys"><img alt="Byb-twitter-insert" class="photo" src="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/2329827/byb-twitter-insert.png"></a></p>
https://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/5/25/4364370/anibal-sanchez-signing-tigersKurt Mensching2013-05-24T22:25:43-04:002013-05-24T22:25:43-04:00Tigers 6, Twins 0: Sanchez loses no-hitter in 9th
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/zWBGTE8XDubYyrAjtN4MiRiOlR4=/220x260:3051x2147/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/13622925/169434566.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Duane Burleson</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>A beyond-dominant Anibal Sanchez just missed the second no-hitter of his career, Joe Mauer breaking up the no-hit bid with a ninth-inning single. Sanchez would end up with a one-hitter, walking three and striking out an even dozen in a 6-0 victory over the Minnesota Twins.</p> <p>With one out in the ninth inning, <span>Joe Mauer</span> broke up <span>Anibal Sanchez's</span> no-hit bid with a clean single to center as the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.blessyouboys.com/">Detroit Tigers</a> hammered the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.twinkietown.com/">Minnesota Twins</a> 6-0.</p>
<p>Sanchez was a mere two outs away from the second no-no of his career, no-hitting the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.azsnakepit.com/">Diamondbacks</a> on September 6, 2006 as a <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.fishstripes.com/">Marlins</a> rookie. Sanchez would settle for the fourth one-hitter of his career.</p>
<p>Sanchez (5-4) ended up with a one-hit shutout, striking out 12, allowing only one base runner to reach second base, while throwing a career-high 130 pitches.</p>
<p>Making his first start of the season for the Twins, losing pitcher <span>Samuel Deduno</span> (0-1) allowed all six runs and nine hits in 5 1/3 innings.</p>
<p>The Tigers gave Sanchez plenty of run support. <span>Miguel Cabrera</span> and <span>Omar Infante</span> led with two RBI, <span>Don Kelly</span> hitting a two-run homer and <span>Andy Dirks</span> adding three hits.</p>
<p>As if Tigers fans didn't need another reason to hate the Twins. You can add Mauer's break up of Sanchez's no-no on top of the 1987 playoffs, countless ridiculous losses at the Hell on Earth known as the Metrodome, and of course, game 163.</p>
<p>But before all the late-inning dramatics, the game started innocuously enough...</p>
<p>The Tigers threatened in the first inning, but the lack of a two-out hit with runners in scoring position doomed the inning.</p>
<p>Still swinging the bat well, Dirks led off with a single to right. Infante grounded into fielder's choice. After Cabrera SHOCKINGLY flew out to right (even the Mighty Cabrera can't reach base all the time), <span>Prince Fielder</span> worked a two-out walk, Infante to second. But Victor Martinez grounded out 5-3 to end the threat.</p>
<p>In the top of the second inning, the Twins were very un-Twins like, making a couple of mental mistakes on defense which allowed the Tigers to take the lead with a two-out rally.</p>
<p>The white-hot <span>Jhonny Peralta</span> gave the Twins a taste of their own medicine, blooping a Twins Hit single in shallow right. One down, Kelly grounded into fielder's choice on what could have been a double-play ball. <span>Justin Morneau</span> made a backhand stop and fired to second to nail Peralta. But no one covered first base, Deduno taking his sweet time getting to the bag, allowing Kelly to easily beat the throw.</p>
<p>Avilsail Garcia followed with another Twins Hit, an infield single which rolled under the glove of Deduno (it looked as if he should have made the play). Then we saw Garcia's amazing speed, beating out what should have been a inning ending 6-4 fielder's choice ground ball off the bat of Dirks. Garcia hustled to second, beating the backhand toss in a bang-bang play, Dirks credited with a single, which loaded the bases.</p>
<p>Deduno buried himself even deeper, issuing an RBI walk to Infante to make it 1-0 Tigers. Big mistake, considering who was on deck.</p>
<p>In his second at-bat against Deduno, Cabrera was not going to be denied. He yanked a hard ground ball inside the third base bag past a diving <span>Jamey Carroll</span>, driving in two to increase the Tigers' lead to 3-0. (<a target="_blank" href="http://t.co/kJC4274pmf">MLB.com video</a>)</p>
<p>Deduno would walk Fielder before Martinez bounced into a fielder's choice (this one the Twins didn't blow) to end the two-out rally. Deduno needed 44 (!!!) pitches to get out of the inning, allowing three runs on four hits, two walks and three mental errors.</p>
<p>Given a three-run cushion, Sanchez was mowing down Twins, having allowed just two walks in three innings, no one having hit a ball hard.</p>
<p>Beat writer spidy-sense began a-tingling.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p>Anibal Sanchez has us drawing cards after three innings. Only 18 outs away from <span>Justin Verlander</span>.</p>
— Dave Hogg (@Stareagle) <a href="https://twitter.com/Stareagle/status/338084573667807233">May 25, 2013</a>
</blockquote>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p>Yeah, it's a few innings early. But it's one of those nights. Sanchez zero hits thru 3. Working against a lot of bad Twins batting averages.</p>
<p>— Lynn G. Henning (@Lynn_Henning) <a href="https://twitter.com/Lynn_Henning/status/338084315571302400">May 25, 2013</a></p>
</blockquote>
<p>Bottom of three and Peralta on base after a single, Kelly made it a five run cushion. His fly ball to deep right just cleared both the yellow line on the right-field wall and Chris Parmelee's glove (mis-timing his leap, otherwise Parmelee would have made the catch of the season) for a two-run homer. Donnie Baseball's second big fly of 2013 made it a 5-0 game. (<a target="_blank" href="http://t.co/UWDRJ8IB8l">MLB.com video</a>)</p>
<p>Meanwhile, Sanchez was even better in the fourth. He struck out the side, giving him four straight and five total. The no-no watch was officially on.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p>DID YOU KNOW: No Tigers pitcher has ever had a 17-strikeout game and a no-hitter in the same season.</p>
— Dave Hogg (@Stareagle) <a href="https://twitter.com/Stareagle/status/338087899385974784">May 25, 2013</a>
</blockquote>
<p>Channeling his inner <span>Max Scherzer</span> (and his 22 consecutive out game), Sanchez rolled through the fifth. Another 1-2-3 inning in the books, Sanchez had retired 11 straight, his pitch count at 71.</p>
<p>While Sanchez alerts were going up all over the internet and media after five innings, Deduno was on a roll of his own, setting down eight straight Tigers after Kelly's home run.</p>
<p>Sanchez's out streak hit 14 straight after striking out Joe Mauer (K number eight) on a full count to end the top of the sixth. He was nine outs away from his second career no-hitter.</p>
<p>After a two-inning slumber, the Tigers knocked Deduno out of the game in the sixth with consecutive one-out singles from Garcia and Dirks. Facing right-handed reliever <span>Ryan Pressly</span> with a runner in scoring position, Infante continued to rake, lining an RBI single to left. Garcia jogged home to push the Tigers' lead to 6-0.</p>
<p>Morneau nearly ended Sanchez's no-hit bid in the seventh with the hardest-hit Twins ball of the night. He lashed a one-out line drive back up the middle, but straight at a perfectly positioned Peralta. The out streak reached 17 straight after Cabrera was able to corral Oswaldo Arcia's foul pop.</p>
<p>Sanchez had yet to allow a hit through seven, his pitch count at 99. The no-hitter alerts went into overdrive, as did the "no-jinxes" people who railed at reporters relaying NEWS.</p>
<p>Leading off the eighth was Parmelee. Sanchez broke his bat, Peralta catching the resulting looper in short left center. Five outs to go.</p>
<p>Arcia walked on four pitches, Sanchez out streak ending at 18 Twins. Arcia was the first base runner Sanchez allowed since Parmelee took a free pass in the second. Five outs were still needed.</p>
<p>Pinch hitting for <span>Aaron Hicks</span>, <span>Ryan Doumit</span> bounced to first, Fielder taking the easy out at first as Arcia advanced to second. Four outs left.</p>
<p>Pulling out the stops in an attempt to avoid the inevitable, Twins manager Ron Gardenhire reached into his bag of tricks for another pinch hitter. <span>Chris Colabello</span> batted for Doumit. He was punched out looking to end the inning on Sanchez's 114th pitch, strikeout victim number nine.</p>
<p>At this point, all anyone cared about was Sanchez's no-hit bid, but the Tigers still needed to bat in the eighth. They didn't make anyone wait for the ninth-inning drama, as Twins reliever <span>Caleb Thielbar</span> retired the Tigers in order.</p>
<p>Top of nine, Sanchez would need just three more outs to make history.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p>Thru 8 after Colabello takes 3rd strike at the belt. Sanchez will face top of Twins order -- Carroll, Mauer, Willingham -- in 9th.</p>
— Jason Beck (@beckjason) <a href="https://twitter.com/beckjason/status/338104485333323776">May 25, 2013</a>
</blockquote>
<p>Sanchez left the dugout to a standing ovation. There would be no defensive changes for the Tigers. Cabrera and Fielder remained on the infield corners, Peralta at short, Kelly in center. Run what ya brung, as they say.</p>
<p>The first Twin to bat was Carroll. Sanchez punched him out looking on a 1-2 inside fastball. It was K number ten, two outs to go.</p>
<p>Mauer worked the count to 1-1, then ... it was over.</p>
<p><iframe src="http://mlb.mlb.com/shared/video/embed/embed.html?content_id=27398041&width=400&height=224&property=mlb" frameborder="0" height="224" width="400">Your browser does not support iframes.</iframe></p>
<p>Mauer hit a liner back through the box over Sanchez, a hard, clean single to center. Mauer ended Sanchez's no-hit bid after 8 1/3 innings. A visibly disappointed Sanchez slapped his glove in disgust as the 39K in attendance groaned at Sanchez nearly making history.</p>
<p>A shutout still on the line, Sanchez, quickly dispatched <span>Josh Willingham</span> and Morneau, ending the game by striking out the side.</p>
<p>GAME OVER, but damn, damn, damn. What a brilliant near miss by Sanchez. Just another reason to despise the Twins. NEVER FORGET.</p>
<p>After the game, Sanchez was happy, with the result (who wouldn't be?), yet he realized just what Mauer had taken away from him during a post-game interview.</p>
<blockquote>
<p>"I tried to make my best pitch, but Mauer is one of the best hitters in the league."</p>
<p>"I tried to do my best."</p>
</blockquote>
<p>You can't ask for more than that.</p>
<p>Jim Leyland gave props to both Sanchez and Mauer.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p>"When you pitch a one hitter and the one hit you give up is to a guy with three batting titles, that's one hell of a performance." -Leyland</p>
— Detroit Tigers (@tigers) <a href="https://twitter.com/tigers/status/338113069312000000">May 25, 2013</a>
</blockquote>
<p>
<script src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
<p>One Hell of a performance, indeed.</p>
<p>Behind Sanchez's right arm, the Tigers raise their record to 27-19. With the Indians losing to the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.overthemonster.com/">Red Sox</a>, the Tigers end the night all alone in first place in the AL Central, 1/2 game up on the Tribe.</p>
<p>The last-place Twins lose their tenth game in row, falling to 18-27, eight back of the Tigers.</p>
<p>In game three of the weekend series, for the second straight game a Twins starter will be making his first appearance of the 2013 season. The Twins have called up right-hander <span>P.J. Walters</span> (2-5, 5.69 in 12 starts in 2012) from Triple-A Rochester to face the Tigers. Doug Fister (5-1, 3.62 ERA) take on the Twinkies, looking to bounce back from a 4 1/3 inning no-decision in Texas.</p>
<p>First pitch is 4:08 PM. Despite the odd start time, Saturday's game is not in the national FOX Saturday Baseball window, so it will be available in the usual places.</p>
<p>FYI, the team will honor the 1968 World Champions in a pregame ceremony starting at 3:40. Gates open at 2.</p>
<p>WIN PROBABILITY GRAPH:</p>
<p><iframe src="http://www.fangraphs.com/graphframe.aspx?config=0&static=0&type=livewins&num=0&h=450&w=450&date=2013-05-24&team=Tigers&dh=0" style="border:1px solid black;" frameborder="0" height="450" scrolling="no" width="450"></iframe><br><span style="font-size:9pt;">Source: <a href="http://www.fangraphs.com/livewins.aspx?date=2013-05-24&team=Tigers&dh=0&season=2013">FanGraphs</a></span></p>
<p><b>BULLETS:</b></p>
<p>Michigan weather in late May is Michigan-like:</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p>Comerica customers dressed in parkas, hoodies, furry stuff. Draped in blankets. More layers than a wedding cake. Pure Michigan, baby ...</p>
— Lynn G. Henning (@Lynn_Henning) <a href="https://twitter.com/Lynn_Henning/status/338083544960225280">May 25, 2013</a>
</blockquote>
<p>
<script src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
<p>Anibal Sanchez allowed two walks in his first two innings, which equaled his season high. But he had yet to allow a hit, either. His stuff was electric.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p>Through 1.2 IP, Anibal Sanchez has matched his highest walk total from any of his last six starts. He's only got 16 on the season, 2 tonight</p>
— Matthew B. Mowery (@matthewbmowery) <a href="https://twitter.com/matthewbmowery/status/338074711722438656">May 24, 2013</a>
</blockquote>
<p>
<script src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
<p>Miguel Cabrera es una fuerza imparable con corredores en posición de anotar.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p>Cabrera ahora con 57 CI – cifra más alta por jugador de LA en primeros 46 juegos desde 60 CI de Manny Ramirez en 46 juegos en 1999.</p>
— Tigres de Detroit (@TigresdeDetroit) <a href="https://twitter.com/TigresdeDetroit/status/338083296372195329">May 25, 2013</a>
</blockquote>
<p>
<script src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
<p>Cabrera also punishes two-strike fastballs to the point of putting up video game-like numbers, shown by your FSD stat of the night:</p>
<p><a href="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/2674709/two_strikes.png" target="_blank"><img alt="Two_strikes_medium" class="photo" src="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/2674709/two_strikes_medium.png"></a> <br id="1369441808729"></p>
<p>In case you didn't know, Don Kelly is exceedingly polite.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p>Don Kelly is so nice he even gives the outfielder a chance to rob it</p>
— Matt Sussman (@suss2hyphens) <a href="https://twitter.com/suss2hyphens/status/338086146309509120">May 25, 2013</a>
</blockquote>
<p>
<script src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p>Don Kelly hits a home run, leaves his cart in the store and just carries his groceries to the car by hand. (via @<a href="https://twitter.com/craiggrossom">craiggrossom</a>) <a href="https://twitter.com/search/%23donniedeeds">#donniedeeds</a></p>
— Eric Wayne (@PhilCokesBrain) <a href="https://twitter.com/PhilCokesBrain/status/338086308612280321">May 25, 2013</a>
</blockquote>
<p>
<script src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p>At the game. Kelly brought me my beer after his HR.</p>
— MattinToledo (@MattinToledo) <a href="https://twitter.com/MattinToledo/status/338086768438026242">May 25, 2013</a>
</blockquote>
<p>
<script src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
<p>Don Kelly, aka The Wizard, Don-bot, Donnie Baseball, was trending on Twitter!</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p>Well looky here: <a href="http://t.co/JYJVajr0yG" title="http://twitter.com/PhilCokesBrain/status/338090940071829505/photo/1">twitter.com/PhilCokesBrain…</a></p>
— Eric Wayne (@PhilCokesBrain) <a href="https://twitter.com/PhilCokesBrain/status/338090940071829505">May 25, 2013</a>
</blockquote>
<p>
<script src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
<p>The pitch-count hawks are always hovering...</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p>Only way Sanchez makes it thru the 9th is if he has some tidy 10-12 pitch innings in the 7th and 8th. Tigers will not risk him at 130-plus.</p>
— Lynn G. Henning (@Lynn_Henning) <a href="https://twitter.com/Lynn_Henning/status/338098839468797952">May 25, 2013</a>
</blockquote>
<p>
<script src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
<p>Worth noting the high level prospect the Tigers traded for Sanchez is 3-4, 4.47.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p>Quick what's Jacob Turner's ERA in AAA?</p>
— ChrisDallasTX (@ChrisDallasTX) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChrisDallasTX/status/338100304052625408">May 25, 2013</a>
</blockquote>
<p>
<script src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
<p>If there was one Twin you did NOT want to see come to plate in the ninth, it was Joe Mauer.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p>This is the 3rd time in his career that Joe Mauer has broken up a no-hitter in 9th inning.</p>
— ESPN Stats & Info (@ESPNStatsInfo) <a href="https://twitter.com/ESPNStatsInfo/status/338107749588144128">May 25, 2013</a>
</blockquote>
<p>
<script src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
<p>DAMMIT. DAMMIT ALL TO HELL.</p>
<p><b>THREE ROARS: </b></p>
<p><b>Anibal Sanchez:: </b>Duh.</p>
<p><b>Miguel Cabrera:</b> Like I said before, Miggy is in ROARS permanently.</p>
<p><b>Don Kelly: </b>Two-run homer was icing on the cake.</p>
<p><b>BONUS ROAR:</b></p>
<p><b>Alex Avila behind the plate:</b> The backstop calling a near-miss no-hitter deserves props.</p>
<p><b>THREE HISSES:</b></p>
<p><b>Alex Avila at the plate:</b> Looks so lost at the plate, not even GPS can help. 0-for-3, 2 K.</p>
<p><b>Joe Mauer:</b> At least it was a clean single.</p>
<p><b>The Minnesota Twins: </b>One general damn principle.</p>
<p><b>ROLL CALL:</b></p>
<table>
<thead><tr>
<th colspan="2">Roll Call Info</th>
</tr></thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td width="150">Total comments</td>
<td>1,227</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Total commenters</td>
<td>53</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Commenter list</td>
<td>
<a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Alex%20Baker">Alex Baker</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Alex%20McHale">Alex McHale</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/BadCompany22">BadCompany22</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Baroque">Baroque</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/BigAl">BigAl</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/DJ%20Screw">DJ Screw</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Dale%20S">Dale S</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Fielder%27sChoice">Fielder'sChoice</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/GhostOfBigRed">GhostOfBigRed</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Grzesio">Grzesio</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/H2OPoloPunk">H2OPoloPunk</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/JWurm">JWurm</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/J_the_Man">J_the_Man</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Jacob30">Jacob30</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/JerseyTigerFan">JerseyTigerFan</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Joaquin%20on%20Sunshine">Joaquin on Sunshine</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/John%20A%20McGeehan">John A McGeehan</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Keith-Allen">Keith-Allen</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Kurt%20Mensching">Kurt Mensching</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/MSUDersh">MSUDersh</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Mark%20in%20Chicago">Mark in Chicago</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/NCDee">NCDee</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Nonsuch%20Ned">Nonsuch Ned</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/SabreRoseTiger">SabreRoseTiger</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/SanDiegoMick">SanDiegoMick</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/ShowingBunt">ShowingBunt</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Singledigit">Singledigit</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Sneechin%27">Sneechin'</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/SonataArctica">SonataArctica</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/SpartanHT">SpartanHT</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Sutelc">Sutelc</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Thorpac">Thorpac</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/TigerMom">TigerMom</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Tigerdog1">Tigerdog1</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Trout%20Jefferson">Trout Jefferson</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Trysdor">Trysdor</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Verlanderful">Verlanderful</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/ahtrap">ahtrap</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/bowling255">bowling255</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/dishnet34">dishnet34</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/dominator039">dominator039</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/frisbeepilot">frisbeepilot</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/gordbrown">gordbrown</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/jbeshay">jbeshay</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/kirdo">kirdo</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/kland83">kland83</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/knucklescarbone">knucklescarbone</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/lesmanalim">lesmanalim</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/mrsunshine">mrsunshine</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/rock%20n%20rye">rock n rye</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/sactwnsteelr">sactwnsteelr</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/stevenyc">stevenyc</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/thanantos">thanantos</a>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p><b>TOP TEN COMMENTERS:</b></p>
<table>
<thead><tr>
<th>#</th> <th>Commenter</th> <th># Comments</th>
</tr></thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>1</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/SpartanHT">SpartanHT</a></td>
<td>132</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Joaquin%20on%20Sunshine">Joaquin on Sunshine</a></td>
<td>86</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/BadCompany22">BadCompany22</a></td>
<td>86</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>4</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/JerseyTigerFan">JerseyTigerFan</a></td>
<td>72</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>5</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/SanDiegoMick">SanDiegoMick</a></td>
<td>64</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>6</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/MSUDersh">MSUDersh</a></td>
<td>59</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>7</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/JWurm">JWurm</a></td>
<td>59</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>8</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Alex%20Baker">Alex Baker</a></td>
<td>51</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>9</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/J_the_Man">J_the_Man</a></td>
<td>47</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>10</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/rock%20n%20rye">rock n rye</a></td>
<td>47</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p><b>TOP RECS:</b></p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/5/24/4360668/tigers-7-twins-6-miguel-cabrera-prince-fielder-lead-late-comeback"> </a></p>
<table>
<thead><tr>
<th># Recs</th> <th>Commenter</th> <th>Comment Link</th>
</tr></thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>5</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Verlanderful">Verlanderful</a></td>
<td><a href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/5/24/4362350/game-46-twins-at-tigers-7-08-p-m#164468555">Go ahead pitch to me</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Alex%20Baker">Alex Baker</a></td>
<td><a href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/5/24/4362350/game-46-twins-at-tigers-7-08-p-m#164491129">EVEN THOUGH HE DIDNT GET IT I DEMAND YOU CLAP FOR HIM</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/NCDee">NCDee</a></td>
<td><a href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/5/24/4362350/game-46-twins-at-tigers-7-08-p-m#164490919">Ahnee-ball!</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/stevenyc">stevenyc</a></td>
<td><a href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/5/24/4362350/game-46-twins-at-tigers-7-08-p-m#164479149">Only 8 Ks for Anibal</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/rock%20n%20rye">rock n rye</a></td>
<td><a href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/5/24/4362350/game-46-twins-at-tigers-7-08-p-m#164487925">hope he doesn't fade into Bolivan</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/MSUDersh">MSUDersh</a></td>
<td><a href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/5/24/4362350/game-46-twins-at-tigers-7-08-p-m#164458217">90% chance of the Tigers raining hits on the Twins</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Trout%20Jefferson">Trout Jefferson</a></td>
<td><a href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/5/24/4362350/game-46-twins-at-tigers-7-08-p-m#164491245">FOUR IN A ROW</a></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/5/24/4360668/tigers-7-twins-6-miguel-cabrera-prince-fielder-lead-late-comeback"> </a></p>
<p><b><a target="_blank" href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/5/24/4360668/tigers-7-twins-6-miguel-cabrera-prince-fielder-lead-late-comeback">GAME 45 PLAYER OF THE GAME:</a></b></p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/5/24/4360668/tigers-7-twins-6-miguel-cabrera-prince-fielder-lead-late-comeback"> </a></p>
<p>Miguel Cabrera reached base four times on two walks, an RBI single and a two-run home run, BYB readers giving Miggy the PotG nod with 69% of the vote.</p>
<p> </p>
<h4>More Roars:</h4>
<p>• <a href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/5/24/4361436/snap-reaction-second-guessing-jim-leyland?utm_source=blessyouboys&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=moreroars">Second guessing Jim Leyland</a></p>
<p>• <a href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/5/24/4361670/tiger-beat-magazine-gets-a-gritty-reboot?utm_source=blessyouboys&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=moreroars">Tiger Beat Magazine gets a gritty reboot</a></p>
<p>• <a href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/5/24/4362446/miguel-cabrera-triple-crown-rbi-record-tigers?utm_source=blessyouboys&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=moreroars">Miguel Cabrera’s superlative year</a> | <a href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/5/24/4362938/miguel-cabrera-gif-6-hr-fangraphs?utm_source=blessyouboys&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=moreroars">And plate coverage</a></p>
<p>• <a href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/5/24/4361372/detroit-tigers-links-justin-verlanders-stuff-austin-jacksons?utm_source=blessyouboys&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=moreroars">Friday’s links: Verlander and Jackson</a></p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.twitter.com/blessyouboys"><img alt="Byb-twitter-insert" class="photo" src="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/2329827/byb-twitter-insert.png"></a></p>
https://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/5/24/4364220/tigers-6-twins-0-detroit-minnesota--anibal-sanchez-loses-no-hitter-joe-mauer-singleAl Beaton2013-05-24T21:42:32-04:002013-05-24T21:42:32-04:00Sanchez loses no-hitter in the 9th
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/NjCV6JiNliyymtkw6Hwe8BfNoT8=/0x255:2380x1842/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/13623851/169440976.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Duane Burleson</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Sanchez made it 8 1/3 innings against the Twins before Joe Mauer singled up the middle.</p> <p>Detroit starter <span>Anibal Sanchez</span> made it to the ninth inning with a no-hitter, but <span>Joe Mauer</span> of the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.twinkietown.com/">Twins</a> singled up the middle to end the bid with one out in the ninth inning.</p>
<p>Sanchez struck out 12 and walked three for the game. Detroit won 6-0.</p>
<p>He started off a bit slow. He issued a walk in both the first and second innings before getting 18 consecutive Twins batters out. He did walk a third batter in the eighth inning before reaching the ninth inning.</p>
<p>He struck out <span>Jamey Carroll</span> to open the ninth before Mauer's single. Mauer has broken up three no-hitters, according to the Fox Sports Detroit broadcast.</p>
<p>Sanchez threw his first no-hitter against the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.azsnakepit.com/">Arizona Diamondbacks</a> as a rookie in 2006. Doing so, he became the 19th rookie since 1900 to accomplish the feat. He took a no-hitter into the ninth inning against the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.purplerow.com/">Rockies</a> in 2011, but lost it on the first pitch of the inning when <span>Dexter Fowler</span> single to right field. At the time, Juan C. Rodriguez of the Miami Sun Sentinel noted <a target="_blank" href="http://articles.sun-sentinel.com/2011-04-22/sports/fl-anibal-sanchez-no-hitter-0423_1_dexter-fowler-sun-life-stadium-rockies">Sanchez would have become the first Latin-born player to throw multiple no-hitters</a>.</p>
<p>Since 2006, Sanchez has thrown five complete games <a target="_blank" href="https://twitter.com/RyanFieldFSD/status/338108671059968001">allowing 1 hit or less</a>.</p>
<p><span>Justin Verlander</span> had the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.blessyouboys.com/">Tigers</a>' last no-hitter: He did so against the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.bluebirdbanter.com/">Blue Jays</a> on May 7, 2011. It was Verlander's second no-hitter.</p>
<p><span>Miguel Cabrera</span> had a hit and two RBI. <span>Don Kelly</span> hit a two-run home run.</p>
<p> </p>
<h4>More Roars:</h4>
<p>• <a href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/5/24/4361436/snap-reaction-second-guessing-jim-leyland?utm_source=blessyouboys&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=moreroars">Second guessing Jim Leyland</a></p>
<p>• <a href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/5/24/4361670/tiger-beat-magazine-gets-a-gritty-reboot?utm_source=blessyouboys&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=moreroars">Tiger Beat Magazine gets a gritty reboot</a></p>
<p>• <a href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/5/24/4362446/miguel-cabrera-triple-crown-rbi-record-tigers?utm_source=blessyouboys&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=moreroars">Miguel Cabrera’s superlative year</a> | <a href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/5/24/4362938/miguel-cabrera-gif-6-hr-fangraphs?utm_source=blessyouboys&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=moreroars">And plate coverage</a></p>
<p>• <a href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/5/24/4361372/detroit-tigers-links-justin-verlanders-stuff-austin-jacksons?utm_source=blessyouboys&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=moreroars">Friday’s links: Verlander and Jackson</a></p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.twitter.com/blessyouboys"><img alt="Byb-twitter-insert" class="photo" src="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/2329827/byb-twitter-insert.png"></a></p>
https://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/5/24/4364182/anibal-sanchez-no-hitter-tigers-twins-may-24Kurt Mensching2013-05-24T21:28:57-04:002013-05-24T21:28:57-04:00Anibal Sanchez has a no-hitter through 8
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/3fu4ytb7xaR7HXx7-qUv2_Jc4q8=/0x150:3416x2427/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/13621327/169434566.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Duane Burleson</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Sanchez has struck out nine and walked three through eight innings.</p> <p>Detroit Tigers starter Anibal Sanchez has a no-hitter through eight innings, as he attempts to become the first Latin-born pitcher to record multiple no-hitters.</p>
<p>He has struck out nine and sits at 113 pitches.</p>
<p>Sanchez walked batters in the first and second innings -- the last baserunner he allowed came on a two-out walk to Chris Parmelee in the second inning. He got the next 18 batters out before issuing a one-out walk in the eighth to Eduardo Escobar.</p>
<p>Sanchez is due to face right-hander Jamey Carroll, left-hander Joe Mauer and right-hander Josh Willingham in the ninth.</p>
<p>Sanchez threw his first career no hitter as a rookie in September 2006. He nearly recorded a second no-hitter in 2011 against the Rockies, but Dexter Fowler broke up the attempt on the first pitch of the ninth inning.</p>
<p>The last Tigers pitcher to toss a no-hitter was Justin Verlander, who through his second on May 7, 2011, against the Toronto Blue Jays.</p>
<h4>More Roars:</h4>
<p>• <a href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/5/24/4361436/snap-reaction-second-guessing-jim-leyland?utm_source=blessyouboys&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=moreroars">Second guessing Jim Leyland</a></p>
<p>• <a href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/5/24/4361670/tiger-beat-magazine-gets-a-gritty-reboot?utm_source=blessyouboys&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=moreroars">Tiger Beat Magazine gets a gritty reboot</a></p>
<p>• <a href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/5/24/4362446/miguel-cabrera-triple-crown-rbi-record-tigers?utm_source=blessyouboys&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=moreroars">Miguel Cabrera’s superlative year</a> | <a href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/5/24/4362938/miguel-cabrera-gif-6-hr-fangraphs?utm_source=blessyouboys&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=moreroars">And plate coverage</a></p>
<p>• <a href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/5/24/4361372/detroit-tigers-links-justin-verlanders-stuff-austin-jacksons?utm_source=blessyouboys&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=moreroars">Friday’s links: Verlander and Jackson</a></p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.twitter.com/blessyouboys"><img alt="Byb-twitter-insert" class="photo" src="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/2329827/byb-twitter-insert.png"></a></p>
https://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/5/24/4364162/anibal-sanchez-no-hitter-twins-may-24Kurt Mensching2013-05-24T21:11:22-04:002013-05-24T21:11:22-04:00Sanchez has no-hitter through 7
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/wkEyODY9sEQFOq_ulimE60xVRXc=/0x90:3416x2367/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/13620849/169434566.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Duane Burleson</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Sanchez has struck out eight.</p> <p><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.blessyouboys.com/">Tigers</a> starting pitcher <span>Anibal Sanchez</span> has thrown seven no-hit innings against the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.twinkietown.com/">Minnesota Twins</a> on Friday. Sanchez issued walks in both the first and second innings, but has since then recorded 17 consecutive outs.</p>
<p>Sanchez has struck out eight and is at 99 pitches for the game.</p>
<p>The last Tigers' no-hitter was thrown May 7, 2011, by <span>Justin Verlander</span> on the road in Toronto, but Sanchez has one of his own dating back to his days with the Florida <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.fishstripes.com/">Marlins</a> in 2006. That game he led the Marlins to a 2-0 victory over the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.azsnakepit.com/">Arizona Diamondbacks</a>. He struck out six and walked four.</p>
<p>In 2011, Sanchez nearly had his second career no-hitter, taking one against the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.purplerow.com/">Rockies</a> as far as the ninth inning in April of that year. He allowed a hit on his first pitch of the inning and finished the game with one hit and three walks allowed.</p>
<p>The Tigers lead the Twins 6-0 behind a 10-hit game and home run by <span>Don Kelly</span>.</p>
<h4>More Roars:</h4>
<p>• <a href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/5/24/4361436/snap-reaction-second-guessing-jim-leyland?utm_source=blessyouboys&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=moreroars">Second guessing Jim Leyland</a></p>
<p>• <a href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/5/24/4361670/tiger-beat-magazine-gets-a-gritty-reboot?utm_source=blessyouboys&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=moreroars">Tiger Beat Magazine gets a gritty reboot</a></p>
<p>• <a href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/5/24/4362446/miguel-cabrera-triple-crown-rbi-record-tigers?utm_source=blessyouboys&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=moreroars">Miguel Cabrera’s superlative year</a> | <a href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/5/24/4362938/miguel-cabrera-gif-6-hr-fangraphs?utm_source=blessyouboys&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=moreroars">And plate coverage</a></p>
<p>• <a href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/5/24/4361372/detroit-tigers-links-justin-verlanders-stuff-austin-jacksons?utm_source=blessyouboys&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=moreroars">Friday’s links: Verlander and Jackson</a></p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.twitter.com/blessyouboys"><img alt="Byb-twitter-insert" class="photo" src="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/2329827/byb-twitter-insert.png"></a></p>
https://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/5/24/4364126/anibal-sanchez-no-hitter-tigers-twins-may-24Kurt Mensching2013-05-24T18:30:02-04:002013-05-24T18:30:02-04:00Game 46: Twins at Tigers, 7:08 p.m.
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/wuhlBJfGdoF2Nr35ech1GdCBy_M=/0x1005:2986x2996/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/13594795/169385641.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Duane Burleson</figcaption>
</figure>
<p><a href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/5/24/4363100/game-46-preview-twins-at-tigers">Game 46 preview</a></p> <p><br></p>
<hr class="widget_boundry_marker">
<div class="pane sports_data_widget current_series clearfix"> <h3>Current Series</h3> <div class="pane-body"> <h4>Tigers lead the series 1-0</h4> <table class="zebra"> <tbody> <tr> <td class="td-first">Thu 05/23</td> <td> WP: <span>Joaquin Benoit</span> (1 - 0) <br> SV: <span>Jose Valverde</span> <br> LP: <span>Jared Burton</span> (0 - 2) <br> </td> <td class="td-last"><span>7 - 6 win</span></td> </tr> <tr style="background: none;"><td style="background: none;" colspan="3"><div class="pane sports_data_widget next_game clearfix"><div class="pane-body"> <p class="game-title"><a href="https://www.twinkietown.com/">Minnesota Twins</a> <span class="blog-hover-link" id="blog_icon_291183115"><a href="http://www.twinkietown.com/"><img class="sbnstar" src="http://cdn0.sbnation.com/images/icons/red-star.v37b17e2.png"></a><span class="blog-hover-menu" id="blog_icon_291183115_menu" style="display: none;"><span class="img"><a href="http://www.twinkietown.com/"><img src="http://cdn0.sbnation.com/community_logos/21819/tt-sm.jpg" alt="Tt-sm"></a></span><span><a href="http://www.twinkietown.com/">Twinkie Town</a></span></span></span> <br> <span class="blog_link">@ <a href="https://www.blessyouboys.com/">Detroit Tigers</a> <span class="blog-hover-link" id="blog_icon_981093132"><a href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/"><img class="sbnstar" src="http://cdn0.sbnation.com/images/icons/red-star.v37b17e2.png"></a><span class="blog-hover-menu" id="blog_icon_981093132_menu" style="display: none;"><span class="img"><a href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/"><img src="http://cdn2.sbnation.com/community_logos/47589/blessyouboys_m.png" alt="Blessyouboys_m"></a></span><span><a href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/">Bless You Boys</a></span></span></span> </span></p> <p class="game-info"><span>Friday, May 24, 2013, 7:08 PM EDT</span><br> Comerica Park</p> <p class="weather"> Clear. Winds blowing out to center field at 10-15 m.p.h. Game time temperature around 55.</p> <p class="foot clearfix"><span class="link-more"><span>Complete Coverage ></span></span></p> </div></div></td></tr> <tr> <td class="td-first">Sat 05/25</td> <td> </td> <td class="td-last"><span>4:08 PM EDT</span></td> </tr> <tr> <td class="td-first">Sun 05/26</td> <td> </td> <td class="td-last"><span>1:08 PM EDT</span></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> </div>
<hr class="widget_boundry_marker">
<p>Tigers lineup: Dirks 7, Infante 4, Cabrera 5, Fielder 3, Martinez DH, Peralta 6, Avila 2, Kelly 8, Garcia 9.</p>
<p>Twins lineup: Carroll 3B Mauer C Willingham DH Morneau 1B Arcia LF Parmelee RF Escobar SS Hicks CF Dozier 2B</p>
https://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/5/24/4362350/game-46-twins-at-tigers-7-08-p-mallikazoo2013-05-24T15:00:05-04:002013-05-24T15:00:05-04:00Game 46 preview
<figure>
<img alt="I believe I can fly" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/r8YnfWp7mQpli7ujDj1pyS9O5NE=/0x39:4000x2706/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/13607227/169389813.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>I believe I can fly | Duane Burleson</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Samuel Deduno makes his 2013 debut for the Twins against the Tigers, meanwhile Anibal Sanchez is trying to pick up his first win of the year against his Minnesota rivals. </p> <h4>
<a href="https://www.twinkietown.com/">Minnesota Twins</a> (18-26) at <a href="https://www.blessyouboys.com/">Detroit Tigers</a> (26-19)</h4>
<p id="paragraph0"><b>Time/Place:</b> 7:08 p.m., Comerica Park</p>
<p id="paragraph1"><b>SB Nation blog:</b> <a href="http://www.twinkietown.com" target="_blank">Twinkie Town</a></p>
<p id="paragraph2"><b>Media:</b> Fox Sports Detroit, <a href="http://mlb.mlb.com/mediacenter/index.jsp?c_id=mlb&affiliateId=mlbMENU#date=5/23/2013" target="_blank">MLB.TV</a>, <a href="http://detroit.tigers.mlb.com/det/schedule/radioaffiliates.jsp" target="_blank">Tigers Radio Network</a></p>
<p><b>Pitching matchup:</b> <span>Samuel Deduno</span> (2013 debut; 6-4, 4.44 ERA in 2012) vs. <span>Anibal Sanchez</span> (4-4, 2.77)</p>
<p>This marks Sanchez's third start against the Minnesota Twins. He has a 2.45 ERA in 11 innings against them this year, allowing seven hits and five walks. Naturally the Tigers lost both games by scoring two runs each of those games. You just can't depend on run support, can you?</p>
<p>Deduno started twice against the Tigers in 2012, allowing 10 runs in a tick over nine innings on the mound, and this will be his 2013 debut after three starts for Triple-A Rochester, none of which seem particularly notable. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.twinkietown.com/2013/5/21/4352268/deduno-to-start-friday-40-man-roster-move-coming">Jesse of Twinkie Town wrote</a>: "clearly the Twins are looking at this differently than the fanbase. Possibly they see this as an opportunity to see whether or not Deduno has anything to offer the club in the future."</p>
<p>Seems like the kind of start that would have given the Tigers troubles in the past. (To be fair, whether that is true or not doesn't really matter, because as a fan base we are relatively certain every pitcher of that caliber will throw a shutout against Detroit based on <span>Bruce Chen</span> expectations alone.)</p>
<p><b>Outlook:</b></p>
<p>Can <span>Miguel Cabrera</span> continue his hot streak? More recently, he has six home runs in the last four games. Longer term, he's batting .355 / .424 / .668 with 50 home runs and 159 RBI in his last 162 games. Yet for your meaningless small sample size of the day there is this: Cabrera went just 1-for-5 against Deduno last year. Something's got to give! Odds are Cabrera comes out on the winning side of this battle, and his Tigers teammates likely will, too.</p>
<p>Yet this being baseball, who knows?</p>
<p><b>Prediction: </b></p>
<p>No hitter!</p>
<p><b>Interesting links at Twinkie Town:</b></p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.twinkietown.com/2013/5/24/4355762/local-idiot-wants-mauer-to-hit-dingers-fix-roof-bachmann-voter-anoka-blaine-coon-rapids">Local idiot wants Mauer to hit dingers, fix roof </a>-- Yes, this is satire. Yet ... well, it certainly sounds like a lot of sports radio callers (and more than a few hosts) we know, doesn't it?</p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.twinkietown.com/2013/5/23/4360064/the-origin-of-a-meme-20-year-old-rick-porcello">The origin of a meme: 20-year-old Rick Porcello</a> -- Porcello seems to inspire memes. TigerSnark's Rogo has <a target="_blank" href="http://detroittigersnark.blogspot.com/2013/02/detroit-tigers-survivor-wiki.html">a few ideas</a> what Porcello does in his free time, for instance, which may or may not be true. Twinkie Town has its own meme that .. oh crap 2009 DO NOT READ DO NOT READ DO NOT READ</p>
<h4>More Roars:</h4>
<p>• <a href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/5/24/4360668/tigers-7-twins-6-miguel-cabrera-prince-fielder-lead-late-comeback?utm_source=blessyouboys&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=moreroars">Tigers 7, Twins 6: Comeback cats</a></p>
<p>• <a href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/5/24/4361436/snap-reaction-second-guessing-jim-leyland?utm_source=blessyouboys&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=moreroars">Second guessing Jim Leyland</a></p>
<p>• <a href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/5/24/4361670/tiger-beat-magazine-gets-a-gritty-reboot?utm_source=blessyouboys&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=moreroars">Tiger Beat Magazine gets a gritty reboot</a></p>
<p>• <a href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/5/24/4362446/miguel-cabrera-triple-crown-rbi-record-tigers?utm_source=blessyouboys&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=moreroars">Miguel Cabrera’s superlative year</a> | <a href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/5/24/4362938/miguel-cabrera-gif-6-hr-fangraphs?utm_source=blessyouboys&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=moreroars">And plate coverage</a></p>
<p>• <a href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/5/24/4361372/detroit-tigers-links-justin-verlanders-stuff-austin-jacksons?utm_source=blessyouboys&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=moreroars">Friday’s links: Verlander and Jackson</a></p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.twitter.com/blessyouboys"><img alt="Byb-twitter-insert" class="photo" src="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/2329827/byb-twitter-insert.png"></a></p>
https://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/5/24/4363100/game-46-preview-twins-at-tigersKurt Mensching