Bless You Boys - Game 61: Indians at TigersA detailed list of nope about the Detroit Tigershttps://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/47585/default.png2013-06-09T19:57:49-04:00http://www.blessyouboys.com/rss/stream/41757052013-06-09T19:57:49-04:002013-06-09T19:57:49-04:00Overanalysis: breaking down Jose Alvarez's debut
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<figcaption>Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Jose Alvarez didn't overpower the Indians in today's 4-1 win, instead using great sequencing and deception to keep the Tribe's offense off-balance.</p> <p>By now, you know the story. <span>Jose Alvarez</span> took a no-hitter into the fifth inning in his major league debut before <span>Ryan Raburn</span> screwed everything up by <a target="_blank" href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/6/9/4412366/gif-miguel-cabrera-throws-gum-ryan-raburn">hitting a solo home run</a>. Alvarez ended up pitching through the sixth inning, allowing three hits and just the one run. He also struck out seven hitters and earned his first major league win.</p>
<p>So, how did he do it? Alvarez doesn't have the stuff of <span>Max Scherzer</span> or even <span>Drew Smyly</span>, but was still able to baffle the <a href="https://www.letsgotribe.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Indians</a> hitters for an afternoon by mixing his pitches effectively and hitting his spots. Here is a look at a couple of at-bats to show how Alvarez got the job done today.</p>
<h5>Sequencing</h5>
<p>One thing that Rod and Mario talked about towards the beginning of today's broadcast is that Alvarez had done a good job of changing speeds while pitching in the minor leagues this season. This continued today, but was especially apparent when pitching to <span>Carlos Santana</span> in the second inning.</p>
<p>First, let's give credit where it's due: as the catcher, <span>Alex Avila</span> is responsible for calling pitch types and locations, the two major components that fall under the overarching "pitch sequencing" category. Veteran pitchers like <span>Justin Verlander</span> can call off pitches when they see fit, but a rookie like Alvarez is going to go with anything and everything that Avila calls. Everything below is a result of both Avila's game management and Alvarez's execution.</p>
<p>Alvarez starts off Santana with a slow breaking ball on the outside part of the plate for a strike.</p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/2744825/Alvarez_Santana1_6-9-13.gif"><img src="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/2744825/Alvarez_Santana1_6-9-13.gif" class="photo" alt="Alvarez_santana1_6-9-13_medium"></a><br id="1370819723408"></p>
<p>Santana, an excellent fastball hitter, was likely looking for the first pitch fastball, especially given that this at-bat immediately followed a walk to <span>Mark Reynolds</span>. As long as Alvarez doesn't hang the pitch in the middle of the plate -- something he does later to Ryan Raburn -- he probably won't even induce a swing from Santana. As was the case for most of the afternoon, Alvarez hits his spot.</p>
<p>Now that he's ahead in the count, Alvarez can go pretty much anywhere. Fastball inside? Fastball away? Changeup anywhere except down the middle? Nope, Alvarez goes back to the same exact pitch.</p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/2744841/Alvarez_Santana2_6-9-13.gif"><img src="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/2744841/Alvarez_Santana2_6-9-13.gif" class="photo" alt="Alvarez_santana2_6-9-13_medium"></a><br id="1370820044645"></p>
<p>Yes, those are two different GIFs. Santana is frozen again, and is now in an 0-2 hole. Alvarez has even more freedom than on the previous pitch, especially considering Santana has been known to swing at bad pitches with two strikes.</p>
<p>On the 0-2 pitch, Alvarez speeds up the breaking ball a bit, throwing an 82 mile per hour slider that misses down and in.</p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/2744961/Alvarez_Santana3_6-9-13.gif"><img src="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/2744961/Alvarez_Santana3_6-9-13.gif" class="photo" alt="Alvarez_santana3_6-9-13_medium"></a><br id="1370821306376"></p>
<p>This -- attention <a href="https://www.blessyouboys.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Tigers</a> bullpen -- is what you do with an 0-2 pitch. Santana lays off for a ball, bringing the count to 1-2. More importantly, he didn't hit it 400+ feet, which is better than we can say about the aforementioned bullpen at times.</p>
<p>On the next pitch, Alvarez throws another breaking ball on the inside part of the plate. Santana is a little ahead of it, but manages to foul it off to stay alive.</p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/2744925/Alvarez_Santana4_6-9-13.gif"><img src="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/2744925/Alvarez_Santana4_6-9-13.gif" class="photo" alt="Alvarez_santana4_6-9-13_medium"></a><br id="1370820997245"></p>
<p>By now, Santana is probably thinking that he's not going to see a fastball in this at-bat. He's behind in a 1-2 count and Alvarez has been spotting his breaking ball. Alvarez could either go back to the breaking ball here or he could go with a changeup.</p>
<p>Instead, Alvarez goes with the fastball.</p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/2745005/Alvarez_Santana5_6-9-13.gif"><img src="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/2745005/Alvarez_Santana5_6-9-13.gif" class="photo" alt="Alvarez_santana5_6-9-13_medium"></a><br id="1370821850301"></p>
<p>Alvarez gets away with a less-than-ideal spot here, leaving the ball higher than Avila initially wanted it. However, the sequencing leading up to this pitch -- all breaking balls, remember -- meant that Santana wasn't catching up to the heater, even if it was only 90 miles per hour. The sequencing in this at-bat is just one of several examples of Avila and Alvarez working well together this afternoon to keep the Indians off balance.</p>
<h5>Deception</h5>
<p>Alvarez worked exclusively from the stretch today, a very unconventional approach in today's game. However, his delivery differs from most players in that he turns his hip slightly, hiding the baseball from opposing hitters for a split second longer than usual. Fox Sports Detroit captured an excellent view of this on a pitch to Mark Reynolds in the second inning.</p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/2744809/Alvarez_hip_6-9-13.gif"><img src="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/2744809/Alvarez_hip_6-9-13.gif" class="photo" alt="Alvarez_hip_6-9-13_medium"></a><br id="1370819207296"></p>
<p>This quirk to his delivery makes it especially hard on left-handed hitters to pick up the ball. The hip turn combined with his 3/4 arm slot -- a slot that he repeats on all his pitches, another reason why he was successful -- gives lefties the impression that the ball is coming from behind them, traveling across their body.</p>
<p><span>Michael Bourn</span> had trouble with this, particularly when Alvarez threw his breaking ball.</p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/2745045/Alvarez_Bourn1_6-9-13.gif"><img src="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/2745045/Alvarez_Bourn1_6-9-13.gif" class="photo" alt="Alvarez_bourn1_6-9-13_medium"></a> <br id="1370822008712"></p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/2744989/Alvarez_Bourn2_6-9-13.gif"><img src="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/2744989/Alvarez_Bourn2_6-9-13.gif" class="photo" alt="Alvarez_bourn2_6-9-13_medium"></a><br id="1370821737586"></p>
<p>There isn't much to add here, as it's pretty clear how silly Bourn looks on these swings. Fun to watch, though.</p>
<p>Overall, it was nice to see Alvarez have a solid debut. His upside is limited by his lack of overpowering stuff, but there are a multitude of pitchers -- lefties, especially -- that have carved out solid careers by pitching exactly like Alvarez did today.</p>
<h4>More Roars</h4>
<p>•<a href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/6/10/4413044/2013-tigers-week-10-review?utm_source=blessyouboys&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=moreroars">Tigers week in review</a></p>
<p>•<a href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/6/9/4412366/gif-miguel-cabrera-throws-gum-ryan-raburn?utm_source=blessyouboys&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=moreroars">GIF: Did Cabrera chuck his gum at Raburn?</a></p>
<p>•<a href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/6/10/4412986/detroit-tigers-fortune-cookies?utm_source=blessyouboys&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=moreroars">Tigers fortune cookies revealed!</a></p>
<p>•<a href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/6/9/4412118/mlb-scores-tigers-4-indians-1-jose-alvarez-major-league-debut-don-kelly-home-run-tigers-sweep?utm_source=blessyouboys&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=moreroars">Tigers 4, Indians 1: Never fear Don Kelly is here</a></p>
<p>•<a href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/6/10/4413640/keeping-score-tigers-sweep-indians-to-lengthen-lead-of-al-central?utm_source=blessyouboys&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=moreroars">Unlikely duo polishes off Tribe</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/2013/6/9/4412708/overanalysis-jose-alvarez-major-league-debut-tigers-sweep-indiansRob Rogacki2013-06-09T16:42:22-04:002013-06-09T16:42:22-04:00GIF: Miggy throws his gum at Ryan Raburn
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<figcaption>Duane Burleson</figcaption>
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<p>Ryan Raburn got what he deserved after breaking up Jose Alvarez's no-hitter in today's 4-1 Tigers win.</p> <p><span>Ryan Raburn</span> had a good series against his former club, hitting a home run in both of the games he started against the <a href="https://www.blessyouboys.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Tigers</a> this weekend. His home run in today's game broke up a no-hit bid from <span>Jose Alvarez</span>, who was making his big league debut.</p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/2744593/Raburn_homer_6-9-13.gif"><img src="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/2744593/Raburn_homer_6-9-13.gif" class="photo" alt="Raburn_homer_6-9-13_medium"></a><br id="1370814184439"></p>
<p>As Raburn rounded the bases, <span>Miguel Cabrera</span> took out his frustration on his former teammate by throwing his gum at the enigmatic <a href="https://www.letsgotribe.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Indians</a> outfielder.</p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/2744601/Miggy_gum_6-9-13.gif"><img src="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/2744601/Miggy_gum_6-9-13.gif" class="photo" alt="Miggy_gum_6-9-13_medium"></a><br id="1370814259423"></p>
<p>In the end, Cabrera and the Tigers got the last laugh, winning 4-1 and sweeping the series.</p>
<h4>More Roars</h4>
<p>•<a href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/6/10/4413044/2013-tigers-week-10-review?utm_source=blessyouboys&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=moreroars">Tigers week in review</a></p>
<p>•<a href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/6/9/4412366/gif-miguel-cabrera-throws-gum-ryan-raburn?utm_source=blessyouboys&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=moreroars">GIF: Did Cabrera chuck his gum at Raburn?</a></p>
<p>•<a href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/6/10/4412986/detroit-tigers-fortune-cookies?utm_source=blessyouboys&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=moreroars">Tigers fortune cookies revealed!</a></p>
<p>•<a href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/6/9/4412118/mlb-scores-tigers-4-indians-1-jose-alvarez-major-league-debut-don-kelly-home-run-tigers-sweep?utm_source=blessyouboys&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=moreroars">Tigers 4, Indians 1: Never fear Don Kelly is here</a></p>
<p>•<a href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/6/10/4413640/keeping-score-tigers-sweep-indians-to-lengthen-lead-of-al-central?utm_source=blessyouboys&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=moreroars">Unlikely duo polishes off Tribe</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/2013/6/9/4412366/gif-miguel-cabrera-throws-gum-ryan-raburnRob Rogacki2013-06-09T16:14:09-04:002013-06-09T16:14:09-04:00Tigers 4, Indians 1: Never fear, Don Kelly is here
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<figcaption>Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Don Kelly's heroics gave Jose Alvarez his first major league win as the Tigers swept the Indians with a 4-1 victory.</p> <p><span>Jose Alvarez</span> took a no-hitter into the fifth inning and <span>Don Kelly</span> hit a three-run home run to lead the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.blessyouboys.com/">Tigers</a> to a 4-1 victory over the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.letsgotribe.com/">Cleveland Indians</a>. The victory gave the Tigers a weekend sweep over the struggling Indians, who are now 5 1/2 games behind in the AL Central.</p>
<p>Alvarez, making his big league debut in place of the injured <span>Anibal Sanchez</span>, allowed one run on three hits in six innings. He struck out seven and walked one. He used a mix of low-90s fastballs, a looping curveball, and an effective changeup to keep the Indians off balance despite having the platoon advantage against the 24 year old lefty.</p>
<p>The Tigers took a 1-0 lead in the bottom of the second inning when they loaded the bases against Indians starter <span>Justin Masterson</span> on a single and two walks. <span>Alex Avila</span> drove the first pitch he saw to center field for a sacrifice fly, scoring Prince Fielder. Masterson would then retire <span>Ramon Santiago</span> and <span>Omar Infante</span> to end the threat.</p>
<p>Alvarez did not allow a hit until <span>Ryan Raburn</span> stepped to the plate with two outs in the top of the fifth inning. Alvarez left an 0-1 cut fastball up in the strike zone and Raburn turned on it, depositing it several rows up in the left field bleachers to tie the game.</p>
<p>The game was deadlocked at 1-1 in the bottom of the sixth when <span>Miguel Cabrera</span> and Fielder led off the inning with a walk and single, respectively. <span>Victor Martinez</span> popped to second for the first out of the inning, but Kelly drove a low 1-2 slider over the right field fence (<a href="http://wapc.mlb.com/play/?content_id=27877233&c_id=mlb" target="_blank">VIDEO</a>) to give the Tigers a 4-1 lead. It was Kelly's third home run of the year and the sixth that Masterson has allowed to a left-handed hitter this season.</p>
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<div class="read-more">
<b>More</b>: <a href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/6/9/4409538/2013-game-61-preview-cleveland-indians-at-detroit-tigers/in/4175705" target="_blank">Game 61 Preview</a> <a href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/6/9/4412054/ryan-raburn-breaks-up-no-hitter-jose-alvarez-major-league-debut/in/4175705" target="_blank">Ryan Raburn breaks up no-hit bid</a> <a href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/6/9/4412366/gif-miguel-cabrera-throws-gum-ryan-raburn" target="_blank">GIF: Miggy throws gum at Raburn</a>
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<p><span>Drew Smyly</span> came out of the bullpen in the seventh inning to protect the three run lead. After allowing two Indians to reach base, he got <span>Mike Aviles</span> to ground into an inning-ending double play. Smyly retired the side in the eighth inning, only allowing a bunt single by <span>Michael Bourn</span>. <span>Joaquin Benoit</span> allowed a one-out double in the ninth inning, but retired <span>Jason Giambi</span> and Raburn for his third save of the season.</p>
<p>Jim Leyland drew the ire of Tigers fans (this one included) before the game for penciling Don Kelly into the sixth spot in the Tigers lineup. Kelly rewarded Leyland's faith with a three-run home run in the bottom of the sixth inning, giving the Tigers a 4-1 lead. The home run made Alvarez the pitcher of record. Alvarez is the first Tigers pitcher to win his major league debut since <span>Alfredo Figaro</span> in 2009.</p>
<p>The Tigers announced after the game that Alvarez would be sent back down to Triple-A. Right-handed relief pitcher <span>Evan Reed</span> has been called up for his second tour of duty with the Tigers this season. The Tigers will travel to Kansas City for a three game series starting tomorrow night. The <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.royalsreview.com/">Royals</a> were 27-32 heading into today's action and are currently tied at 0 with the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.crawfishboxes.com/">Houston Astros</a> in the seventh inning. <span>Doug Fister</span> will pitch against Royals right-hander <span>Jeremy Guthrie</span> tomorrow night.</p>
<p><b>WIN PROBABILITY GRAPH:</b></p>
<p><iframe style="border:1px solid black;" src="http://www.fangraphs.com/graphframe.aspx?config=0&static=0&type=livewins&num=0&h=450&w=450&date=2013-06-09&team=Tigers&dh=0" 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=2013-06-09&team=Tigers&dh=0&season=2013">FanGraphs</a></span></p>
<p><b>BULLETS:</b></p>
<p>Alvarez did an excellent job of mixing his pitches and attacking both sides of the strike zone. The Indians have feasted on left-handed pitching this season, but seemed baffled all day long by Alvarez. Six of Alvarez's seven strikeouts were of the swinging variety.</p>
<p>Even though he gave up four runs, Masterson was pretty effective against the Tigers' lineup. He made Miguel Cabrera look silly on a late-breaking slider to strike out the MVP in the third inning and only allowed six hits in seven innings. His command was an issue once again, however, walking three batters -- two of which occurred in innings that the Tigers scored.</p>
<p>Alex Avila was 0-for-3 on the day, but he had three nice swings. He drove the ball to deep center field in his first two plate appearances, one of which resulted in a sacrifice fly to give the Tigers a 1-0 lead. His fourth plate appearance was a hard line drive directly at second baseman <span>Jason Kipnis</span>. He's not turning any corners yet, but today was a nice start.</p>
<p>He may have made the right call with putting Don Kelly in the lineup today, but some of Jim Leyland's moves still make no sense.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p>Wow. They did a hit & run with Kelly batting and VMart running and I blacked out for a moment.</p>
— Scott Rogowski (@DNR_Rogo) <a href="https://twitter.com/DNR_Rogo/status/343791908658769921">June 9, 2013</a>
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<p>Nick Swisher singled off Alvarez in the sixth inning, his first hit in over a week.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p><span>Nick Swisher's</span> Bro-for-26 streak is Bro-ver.</p>
— Matthew B. Mowery (@matthewbmowery) <a href="https://twitter.com/matthewbmowery/status/343798405623083008">June 9, 2013</a>
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<p>Drew Smyly, still criminally under-used.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p>Leverage Index was 0.92 when Smyly came into the game. 1 is average. It's the highest the LI has been when he came into a game since 5/17.</p>
— bigmike (@bigmike05) <a href="https://twitter.com/bigmike05/status/343804682017316865">June 9, 2013</a>
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<p>I said before the Tigers' previous series with the Indians that we would know a lot more about their team over the next few weeks. The Indians had a rough stretch ahead of them at the time, and it's safe to say that things haven't gone well. The Tribe are 4-15 since May 20th, including 0-5 against the Tigers. Their pitching staff has been as advertised, allowing 5.7 runs per game during that stretch.</p>
<p>Drew Smyly got into a little trouble in the sixth inning, but got out of the mini-jam when Miguel Cabrera turned a sharp grounder from Mike Aviles into a nifty 5-3 double play. Miggy made a couple of solid plays with the glove today.</p>
<p>The Tigers' decision to call up Reed makes a lot of sense, especially given that Anibal Sanchez is not currently on the disabled list. If the Tigers feel that Sanchez isn't ready to make his next start, they can place him on the disabled list retroactive to his last outing against the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.draysbay.com/">Tampa Bay Rays</a>. This would allow them to call up Alvarez to start without having to wait the obligatory 10-day grace period after a player is optioned to the minor leagues.</p>
<p><b>THREE ROARS:</b></p>
<p><b>Jose Alvarez:</b> Took a no-hitter into the fifth inning and allowed just one run and three hits in six innings. He struck out seven, walked one, and kept the Indians lineup off-balance all afternoon. All in all, a spectacular debut for the young lefty.</p>
<p><b>Don Kelly:</b> Just as we were resigned to Alvarez being stuck with a no-decision, Kelly took Justin Masterson deep to give the Tigers a 4-1 lead. He also drew two walks.</p>
<p><b>Drew Smyly and Joaquin Benoit:</b> A combined three scoreless innings in relief gave Alvarez a well-deserved win in his big league debut.</p>
<p><b>BONUS ROAR:</b></p>
<p><b>Jim Leyland:</b> Sometimes you have to tip your cap. Leyland put together everyone's worst nightmare of a lineup with Don Kelly hitting sixth, but it paid off when Kelly homered to give the Tigers a three-run lead.</p>
<p><b>THREE HISSES:</b></p>
<p><b>Ryan Raburn:</b> Recapping a no-hitter, especially for a pitcher making his major league debut, would have been really cool.</p>
<p><b>Anyone that booed Ryan Raburn:</b> Let it go, Tigers fans.</p>
<p><b>Omar Infante and Ramon Santiago:</b> Both went 0-for-3 on the afternoon and left two runners stranded on base in the bottom of the second inning.</p>
<p><b>ROLL CALL:</b></p>
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<td>Commenter list</td>
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<a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/AZBadger03">AZBadger03</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/Buddahfan">Buddahfan</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/DeKaF">DeKaF</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Fielder'sChoice">Fielder'sChoice</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/GWilson">GWilson</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/HookSlide">HookSlide</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/JWurm">JWurm</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/KGW">KGW</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Keith-Allen">Keith-Allen</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Lukas%20M">Lukas M</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/MSUDersh">MSUDersh</a>,<a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Matthew%20Malek">Matthew Malek</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Michigan%26TrumbullinLA">Michigan&TrumbullinLA</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/NCDee">NCDee</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Rob%20Rogacki">Rob Rogacki</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/Singledigit">Singledigit</a>,<a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Sneechin'">Sneechin'</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/SpartanBoiler">SpartanBoiler</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/Verlanderful">Verlanderful</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/dpsmallwood">dpsmallwood</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/fiendishdr.wu">fiendishdr.wu</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/frisbeepilot">frisbeepilot</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/josejose50">josejose50</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/stevenyc">stevenyc</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/thanantos">thanantos</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/thesiberian">thesiberian</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/tigerlover">tigerlover</a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Story URLs</td>
<td>
<a href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/6/9/4402010/game-61-indians-at-tigers-1-08-p-m/in/4175705">http://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/6/9/4402010/game-61-indians-at-tigers-1-08-p-m/in/4175705</a><a href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/6/9/4412040/game-61-overflow-indians-at-tigers/in/4175705">http://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/6/9/4412040/game-61-overflow-indians-at-tigers/in/4175705</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/Sneechin'">Sneechin'</a></td>
<td>84</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/SanDiegoMick">SanDiegoMick</a></td>
<td>82</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/JWurm">JWurm</a></td>
<td>81</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>4</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/BadCompany22">BadCompany22</a></td>
<td>74</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>5</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/H2OPoloPunk">H2OPoloPunk</a></td>
<td>68</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>6</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Tigerdog1">Tigerdog1</a></td>
<td>65</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>7</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/mrsunshine">mrsunshine</a></td>
<td>61</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>8</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/stevenyc">stevenyc</a></td>
<td>56</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>9</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/HookSlide">HookSlide</a></td>
<td>46</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>10</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/SabreRoseTiger">SabreRoseTiger</a></td>
<td>34</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p><b>TOP RECS:</b></p>
<table>
<thead><tr>
<th># Recs</th> <th>Commenter</th> <th>Comment Link</th>
</tr></thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>6</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Tigerdog1">Tigerdog1</a></td>
<td><a href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/6/9/4412040/game-61-overflow-indians-at-tigers/in/4175705#167023055">Miggy be nimble, Miggy be quick</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>5</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Rob%20Rogacki">Rob Rogacki</a></td>
<td><a href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/6/9/4412040/game-61-overflow-indians-at-tigers/in/4175705#167019541">I GIVE UP</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/frisbeepilot">frisbeepilot</a></td>
<td><a href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/6/9/4412040/game-61-overflow-indians-at-tigers/in/4175705#167028457">Hoped I'd get to be able to use this one today</a></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p><b>GAME 60 PLAYER OF THE GAME:</b></p>
<p><span>Rick Porcello</span> continues to <a target="_blank" href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/6/8/4410284/gif-of-the-day-rick-porcello-is-rollin">rick roll the opposition</a>, picking up 60% of the vote as yesterday's BYB Player of the Game.</p>
<h4>More Roars</h4>
<p>•<a href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/6/10/4413044/2013-tigers-week-10-review?utm_source=blessyouboys&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=moreroars">Tigers week in review</a></p>
<p>•<a href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/6/9/4412366/gif-miguel-cabrera-throws-gum-ryan-raburn?utm_source=blessyouboys&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=moreroars">GIF: Did Cabrera chuck his gum at Raburn?</a></p>
<p>•<a href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/6/10/4412986/detroit-tigers-fortune-cookies?utm_source=blessyouboys&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=moreroars">Tigers fortune cookies revealed!</a></p>
<p>•<a href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/6/9/4412118/mlb-scores-tigers-4-indians-1-jose-alvarez-major-league-debut-don-kelly-home-run-tigers-sweep?utm_source=blessyouboys&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=moreroars">Tigers 4, Indians 1: Never fear Don Kelly is here</a></p>
<p>•<a href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/6/10/4413640/keeping-score-tigers-sweep-indians-to-lengthen-lead-of-al-central?utm_source=blessyouboys&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=moreroars">Unlikely duo polishes off Tribe</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/2013/6/9/4412118/mlb-scores-tigers-4-indians-1-jose-alvarez-major-league-debut-don-kelly-home-run-tigers-sweepRob Rogacki2013-06-09T14:40:55-04:002013-06-09T14:40:55-04:00Ryan Raburn breaks up Jose Alvarez's no-hitter
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/J-mEINK5gs6QH8SaxgS1lRcQMKI=/0x170:2820x2050/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/14484943/170235720.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Duane Burleson</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Jose Alvarez did not allow a hit through his first four innings, but Ryan Raburn ended any talk of a no-hitter in Alvarez's debut with a solo home run.</p> <p><span>Jose Alvarez</span> did not allow a hit to the first 15 batters that he faced this afternoon, but his bid for a no-hitter in his big league debut ended when <span>Ryan Raburn</span> hit a solo home run. Raburn's homer cleared the bullpens, landing several rows up in the left field seats.</p>
<p>Alvarez had only allowed a walk to <span>Mark Reynolds</span> prior to Raburn's home run, racking up seven strikeouts before giving up his first hit. He settled down immediately after the home run, retiring <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.letsgotribe.com/">Indians</a> shortstop <span>Mike Aviles</span> to end the inning. Alvarez allowed two more baserunners in the sixth inning before retiring the side, and appears to be done for the afternoon.</p>
<p>Alvarez, called up to start in place of <span>Anibal Sanchez</span>, is 5-4 with a 2.42 ERA in 12 starts for the Triple-A Toledo Mud Hens this season. He was acquired by the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.blessyouboys.com/">Tigers</a> during the offseason as a minor league free agent after pitching in the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.fishstripes.com/">Miami Marlins</a>' organization for the previous three seasons.</p>
https://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/6/9/4412054/ryan-raburn-breaks-up-no-hitter-jose-alvarez-major-league-debutRob Rogacki2013-06-09T14:24:10-04:002013-06-09T14:24:10-04:00Game 61 Overflow: Indians at Tigers
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/fQrh0rAi5iUdArke0kloCS_19mQ=/0x26:400x293/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/47827729/large_blessyouboys.com.minimal.0.png" />
</figure>
<p>Stuff that happened:</p>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 9px;">Austin Jackson will <a href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/6/9/4411870/austin-jackson-to-begin-rehab-assignment-with-triple-a-toledo-on" target="_blank">go on a rehab assignment</a> tomorrow.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 9px;"><span>Alex Avila</span> gave the <a href="https://www.blessyouboys.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Tigers</a> a 1-0 lead with a sacrifice fly in the second inning.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 9px;"><span>Ryan Raburn</span> broke up a no-hitter bid by <span>Jose Alvarez</span> with a solo homer in the top of the fifth.</span></li>
</ul>
<p>Thread stuff that happened:</p>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 9px;">I dunno the inning is over</span></li>
</ul>
https://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/6/9/4412040/game-61-overflow-indians-at-tigersRob Rogacki2013-06-09T12:30:05-04:002013-06-09T12:30:05-04:00Game 61: Indians at Tigers, 1:08 p.m.
<figure>
<img alt="Jose Alvarez makes his major league debut for the Tigers on Sunday against Cleveland" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/3wawZvffTlm3xQQ5jpNEOK57-dk=/0x1115:2655x2885/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/14477875/20130219_jla_sv7_239.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Jose Alvarez makes his major league debut for the Tigers on Sunday against Cleveland | US PRESSWIRE</figcaption>
</figure>
<p><a href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/6/9/4409538/2013-game-61-preview-cleveland-indians-at-detroit-tigers">Game 61 preview link</a></p> <p> </p>
<p></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 2-0</h4> <table class="zebra"> <tbody> <tr> <td class="td-first">Fri 06/07</td> <td> WP: <span>Justin Verlander</span> (8 - 4) <br> LP: <span>Ubaldo Jimenez</span> (4 - 4) <br> </td> <td class="td-last"><span>7 - 5 win</span></td> </tr> <tr> <td class="td-first">Sat 06/08</td> <td> WP: <span>Rick Porcello</span> (3 - 3) <br> SV: <span>Jose Valverde</span> <br> LP: <span>Carlos Carrasco</span> (0 - 2) <br> </td> <td class="td-last"><span>6 - 4 win</span></td> </tr> <tr style="background: none;"><td colspan="3" style="background: none;"><div class="pane sports_data_widget next_game clearfix"><div class="pane-body"> <p class="game-title"><a href="https://www.letsgotribe.com/">Cleveland Indians</a> <span class="blog-hover-link" id="blog_icon_924233316"><a href="http://www.letsgotribe.com/"><img class="sbnstar" src="http://cdn0.sbnation.com/images/icons/red-star.v37b17e2.png"></a><span class="blog-hover-menu" id="blog_icon_924233316_menu" style="display: none;"><span class="img"><a href="http://www.letsgotribe.com/"><img src="http://cdn1.sbnation.com/community_logos/426/letsgotribe_m.gif" alt="Letsgotribe_m"></a></span><span><a href="http://www.letsgotribe.com/">Let's Go Tribe</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_203138619"><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_203138619_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>Sunday, Jun 9, 2013, 1:08 PM EDT</span><br> Comerica Park</p> <p class="pitchers"><span>Justin Masterson</span> vs <span>Jose Alvarez</span></p> <p class="weather"> Mostly cloudy. Winds blowing in from center field at 5-15 m.p.h. Game time temperature around 75.</p> <p class="foot clearfix"><span class="link-more"><span>Complete Coverage ></span></span></p> </div></div></td></tr> </tbody> </table> </div> </div>
<hr class="widget_boundry_marker">
<p></p>
<p class="pgh-paragraph" id="paragraph2"><strong>Tigers lineup:</strong></p>
<p class="pgh-paragraph" id="paragraph3">Dirks 7, Hunter 9, Cabrera 5, Fielder 3, Martinez DH, Kelly 8, Avila 2, Santiago 6, Infante 4.</p>
<p class="pgh-paragraph"> </p>
<p class="pgh-paragraph" id="paragraph4"><strong>Indians lineup: </strong></p>
<p class="pgh-paragraph">Bourn 8, Kipnis 4, Swisher 3, Reynolds 5, Santana DH, Gomes 2, Raburn 9, Aviles 6, Stubbs 7</p>
https://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/6/9/4402010/game-61-indians-at-tigers-1-08-p-mPatrick OKennedy2013-06-09T11:04:21-04:002013-06-09T11:04:21-04:00Game 61 Preview: Indians at Tigers
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/JBxtB452baLWi4JVucKhYTCJTWw=/0x160:4000x2827/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/14437403/20130316_gav_sr6_397.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Scott Rovak-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Jose Alvarez makes his big league debut today for the Tigers as they look to sweep the Cleveland Indians. Justin Masterson will take the mound for the Tribe.</p> <h4>
<a href="https://www.letsgotribe.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Cleveland Indians</a> (30-31) at <a href="https://www.blessyouboys.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Detroit Tigers</a> (34-26)</h4>
<p><b>Time/Place:</b> 1:08 p.m., Comerica Park</p>
<p><b>SB Nation blog:</b> <a target="_blank" href="http://www.letsgotribe.com/">Let's Go Tribe</a></p>
<p><b>Media:</b> Fox Sports Detroit, <a target="_blank" href="http://mlb.mlb.com/mediacenter/index.jsp?c_id=mlb&affiliateId=mlbMENU#date=6/9/2013">MLB.TV</a>, <a target="_blank" href="http://detroit.tigers.mlb.com/det/schedule/radioaffiliates.jsp">Tigers Radio Network</a></p>
<p><b>Pitching Matchup:</b> RHP <span>Justin Masterson</span> (8-4, 3.57 ERA) vs. LHP <span>Jose Alvarez</span> (5-4, 2.42 ERA for Triple-A Toledo)</p>
<p>Thanks to the gamesmanship of the Cleveland Indians' organization*, <a href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/6/8/4409012/2013-game-60-preview-cleveland-indians-at-detroit-tigers" target="_blank">yesterday's game preview</a> covered the book on Masterson. Here's part of what I had to say:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>Overall, Masterson's numbers look very similar to his excellent 2011 season. He is walking more batters than '11, but he has cut down his rate from last year. He is also striking out nearly a batter per inning, well above the rates he has posted over the past few years. His line drive rate is just 15.5%, down almost 4% from last season, but his ground ball rate is largely unaffected. Given that he's getting more whiffs within the strike zone, I would wager that we will see a jump in ground ball rate if his strikeout rate begins to fall -- instead of fanning on those pitches, hitters will likely beat them into the ground for easy outs.</p>
<p>The biggest reason for Masterson's resurgence is the return of his biting slider. In 2011, it was his best pitch, ranking 6.5 runs above average. That edge disappeared in 2012, as his slider was just 0.8 runs above average. This season? A whopping 11.0 runs above average, second to only <span>Yu Darvish</span>. Opposing batters are hitting just .070 on the slider this season with an ISO of .035. He will throw the slider to both lefties and righties, combining that with his heavy two-seam fastball to create somewhat of a scissoring effect, with one pitch running in on hitters and the other running away.</p>
</blockquote>
<p>Masterson hasn't pitched well in Comerica Park, allowing 18 runs (16 earned) in 23 career innings in Detroit. His command has never been great -- as a career 3.57 walks per nine innings attests -- but his walk rate climbs by nearly a full batter per nine innings at Comerica Park. While we're dealing with a small sample here, it's definitely not the first time we've seen a pitcher have some bad splits in Detroit.</p>
<p></p>
<div class="read-more">
<b>More</b>: <a href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/detroit-tigers-prospect-report/2013/5/21/4349384/tigers-prospects-video-scouting-report-jose-alvarez" target="_blank">Scouting report: Jose Alvarez</a>
</div>
<p>Erin, a.k.a. SabreRoseTiger, had a few notes in <a target="_blank" href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/6/8/4409012/2013-game-60-preview-cleveland-indians-at-detroit-tigers">yesterday's game preview</a> on Alvarez, who has been pitching well in Toledo this season.</p>
<blockquote>
<p>As I said above, he’s been Toledo’s best starter this year, and with a 2.42 ERA, he’s been one of the best starters in the International League. I’d describe him as a control guy (He’s only walked 15 in 74.1 innings, while striking out 76), and an innings-eater (He’s only failed to go at least six innings in three of his 12 starts). His 5-4 record is a bit deceptive, since the Mud Hens’ offense has been largely absent this year, so he hasn’t gotten a lot of run support, with a few exceptions. His last start was Monday against Louisville and went 7.2 innings, taking the loss after allowing a 2-run inside-the-park home run to <span>Billy Hamilton</span> in the eighth inning, but he retired 17 hitters in a row at one point between the first inning and the eighth inning (Interesting side-note: He got out-dueled by <span>Armando Galarraga</span>). He only walked one (granted, Louisville as a team doesn’t walk a whole lot) and struck out nine.</p>
</blockquote>
<p>As stated above, today is Alvarez's big league debut. The reason why you haven't heard anything about him over the past couple years is because he was part of the <a href="https://www.fishstripes.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Miami Marlins</a>' organization for the previous three seasons. He was originally signed out of Venezuela by the <a href="https://www.overthemonster.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Boston Red Sox</a> before heading to Miami in 2010. The Tigers signed him as a minor league free agent in the offseason.</p>
<p><b>Magic 8 ball: will <span>Don Kelly</span> play today?</b></p>
<p>Ask again later.</p>
<p><b>Outlook</b></p>
<p>Of all the games for someone to make their big league debut, Alvarez couldn't have come into a much tougher situation. Pitching in front of the home crowd may help (if things go well), but he will likely face a lineup of six or seven right-handed hitters. In addition, the lefties -- <span>Michael Bourn</span>, <span>Jason Kipnis</span>, and possibly <span>Michael Brantley</span> -- have hit left-handed pitching fairly well in 2013. Alvarez has allowed a .236 average to right-handed hitters in the minors compared to a .145 average to lefties.</p>
<p>For the Indians, Masterson's success depends on his ability to throw strikes. Like Ubaldo Jimenez, his stuff is lethal if he can keep it in the strike zone. He has done an excellent job this season of keeping the two-seamer and slider down in the strike zone, but the problems we saw in 2012 have started to creep back in during his last couple road starts. If he rights the ship, the Indians should win easily. If not, we could have yet another slugfest on our hands.</p>
<p><b>Prediction</b></p>
<p>Alvarez struggles in his debut and the Indians avoid the sweep.</p>
https://www.blessyouboys.com/2013/6/9/4409538/2013-game-61-preview-cleveland-indians-at-detroit-tigersRob Rogacki