Detroit Tigers by In Play! Magazine with 31-6 Denny McLain

TIGERS EXERCISE 2012 CLUB OPTION ON JOSE VALVERDE

2011-10-28T08:07:00.000-07:00

DETROIT – The Detroit Tigers today announced that the club has exercised the club option on righthanded pitcher Jose Valverde for the 2012 season.

Valverde posted a 2-4 record, 2.24 ERA (72.1IP/18ER), 49 saves and 69 strikeouts in 75 outings for the Tigers during the 2011 season. He established a Tigers single-season record with his American League leading 49 saves. Valverde joined Todd Jones (42 saves in 2000) as the only two pitchers in franchise history to register 40-or-more saves during a single season.

He was selected the Major League Baseball Delivery Man of the Year in 2011, an honor that recognizes the most outstanding relief pitcher during the regular season as voted on by a panel from Major League Baseball.

Jose Valverde will be back with the Tigers in 2012.
Photo By Matt Harding / In Play! Magazine

Valverde converted all 49 of his save opportunities during the season, marking the longest such streak during a single season in Tigers history. He surpassed Guillermo Hernandez who converted 32 straight save opportunities for the Tigers April 6-September 23, 1984. Valverde became only the third pitcher in major league history to be perfect in all of his save opportunities during a single season while posting 40-or-more saves. Eric Gagne converted all 55 of his save chances for the Los Angeles Dodgers during the 2003 season, while Brad Lidge converted all 41 of his save opportunities for the Philadelphia Phillies in 2008.

Signed by the Tigers as a free agent on January 26, 2010, Valverde has been selected to the American League’s all-star squad in both of his seasons with the club (2010-11). He has appeared in 135 games during his two seasons with the Tigers, posting a 4-8 record, 2.59 ERA (135.1IP/39ER), 75 saves and 132 strikeouts.

Valverde has appeared in 514 games over the course of nine seasons at the major league level with the Arizona Diamondbacks (2003-07), Houston Astros (2008-09) and Tigers (2010-11). He is 23-27 with a 3.02 ERA (521.1IP/175ER), 242 saves and 602 strikeouts during his major league career.

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Justin Verlander named Sporting News’ 2011 MLB Player of the Year

2011-10-28T07:44:00.000-07:00

October 28 – Justin Verlander has been named Sporting News' 2011 player of the year. In voting done by 289 major league players (177 players from the AL and 112 from the NL), Verlander was the first pitcher to win the award since the Los Angeles Dodgers' Orel Hershiser in 1988. The award is presented by Gillette Odor Shield.

Verlander stood out in 2011 among even his most dominant peers with a 24-5 record, 250 strikeouts and 2.40 ERA.

"He's had one of the best seasons for a pitcher. Ever," New York Yankees ace CC Sabathia said.

"He's pretty incredible," Yankees first baseman Mark Teixeira said after Verlander struck out 11 New York batters in the ALDS. "He's throwing 100 mph in the eighth inning. That's impressive. I don't know if there's anyone else in baseball, especially a starter, that can do that."

Justin Verlander - Sporting News MLB 2011 Player of the Year
Photo by Matt Harding / In Play! Magazine

Verlander's maturation process in the majors wasn't immediate. After a stellar 2006 season (17-9, 3.63 ERA) that earned him the rookie of the year honors, Verlander had a strong 2007 (18-6, 3.66) but a rocky 2008 (11-17, 4.84) before he really started to dominate hitters in the fashion he did this year.

"One of my favorite lines is you can't make a senior out of a freshman," Tigers manager Jim Leyland said. "It takes time. ... You have to go through different experiences before you really get to (your) peak. I think Justin has taken it step by step. He had the big year in 2006. Then he went through a little bit of a humbling period. He's made adjustments mentally, he's made some adjustments physically. He's figured some things out. ... He's matured a lot."

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“WILLIE HORTON DAY” OCTOBER 18

2011-10-17T09:47:00.000-07:00

HORTON HONORED ACROSS THE STATE ON HIS BIRTHDAY
FOR PAST ACHIEVEMENTS

DETROIT – For the eighth consecutive year, the state of Michigan will recognize one man's ability to overcome obstacles and achieve a lifetime of success when "Willie Horton Day" is celebrated on Tuesday, October 18. Willie is the fourth person in Michigan history to be given a day, with the third being Rosa Parks.

Horton, who serves as a Special Assistant to Tigers President, CEO & General Manager David Dombrowski, received this honor in 2004 when former Governor Jennifer Granholm signed House Bill No. 5200, which permanently declared October 18 of each year to be known as "Willie Horton Day." The legislature chose to recognize the seven-time all-star for his humanitarian efforts in the city and the state. The date of the honor also coincides with Mr. Horton’s birthday.

The youngest of 21 children, Horton was born on October 18, 1942 in Arno, Virginia. At the age of nine, Horton's family moved to Detroit. By 13, he was turning the heads of area baseball scouts and on August 6, 1961, he became a member of his hometown team when he signed his first professional contract with the Tigers after an outstanding career at Detroit's Northwestern High School.

His 18-year big league career included 14 seasons with the Tigers and he was an important part of the 1968 World Championship team. A lifetime .273 hitter, Horton had 1,993 hits, 325 home runs and 1,163 RBI over 2,028 games.

Among the many honors he has received in his lifetime, Horton's uniform number 23 was retired and a statue in his likeness was unveiled by the Tigers on July 15, 2000 and stands among the Tigers Hall of Famers. On August 6, 2004, Detroit Northwestern High School named their newly constructed baseball and softball fields as the Willie Horton Baseball and Softball Diamonds. A monument in Horton's honor was installed at the fields in 2005.

On June 14, 2006, the Army honored Willie with one of the highest Military awards given to a civilian, the Order of Saint Maurice. He was the first professional athlete to earn the honor and his loyal support and distinguished contributions have been ongoing for many years to our Military.

Horton remains active in the community, working in partnership with Don Bosco Hall to host the annual Willie Horton Batting for Kids event at Comerica Park. The event allows youth ages 7-14 the chance to showcase their skills in throwing, batting and base running on the field at Comerica Park. Winners are honored each year in a pregame ceremony.

Additionally, Horton sponsors a $5,000 scholarship that is awarded annually to a high school senior from his alma mater, Detroit Northwestern High School.

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TIGERS HOST GAME FIVE OF THE ALCS v THE TEXAS RANGERS TODAY

2011-10-13T08:10:00.000-07:00

FIRST PITCH TODAY AT 4:19 P.M. AT COMERICA PARK

DETROIT – The American League Central Division Champion Detroit Tigers will continue the American League Championship Series against the Texas Rangers today at Comerica Park. Gates will open at 2:00 p.m. and first pitch is scheduled for 4:19 p.m.

Thursday, October 13, 2011 - Texas Rangers (Probables: Justin Verlander vs. C.J. Wilson) @
4:19 p.m. (Gates open at 2:00 p.m.)

· All fans will receive a Detroit Tigers Rally Towel, courtesy of Pepsi MAX and Frito Lay.

· Former Detroit Tiger and 1984 World Series Champion Lou Whitaker will throw out the first pitch prior to today's game.

· The national anthem will be performed by the Motown legend and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame group, The Four Tops. Members of the United States Navy will serve as Honor Guard.

· Game Ball Delivery: Master at Arms First Class Petty Officer Arthur Allen Stoddard of the United States Navy from Waterford, Michigan will deliver the game ball. He has served three tours of duty including deployments to the Persian Gulf, Iraq, Afghanistan, Cuba and aboard the USS George H. W. Bush. He has received the Navy and Marine Corps Medal of Heroism and a Joint Senate Resolution Certificate. Master at Arms First Class Petty Officer Stoddard has proudly served the United States Navy for 12 years.

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TIGERS HOST GAME FOUR OF THE ALCS V THE TEXAS RANGERS THIS AFTERNOON

2011-10-12T07:51:00.000-07:00

Wednesday, October 12, 2011 - Texas Rangers (Probables: Rick Porcello vs. Matt Harrison) @
4:19 p.m. (Gates open at 2:00 p.m.)

· All fans will receive a Detroit Tigers Rally Towel, courtesy of Xfinity from Comcast.

· Former Detroit Tiger and 1984 World Series Champion Chet Lemon will throw out the first pitch prior to today's game.

· The national anthem will be performed by Founding and current member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame’s Bob Seger and the Silver Bullet Band, Alto Reed. Members of the United States Marine Corps will serve as Honor Guard.

· Game Ball Delivery: Sergeant Shaun Oates of the United States Marines Corp from Detroit, Michigan will deliver the game ball. He has completed three combat deployments including two tours in Iraq and most recently a tour of duty in Afghanistan. Among his many awards, he has received the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, Iraqi and Afghan Campaign Medals and Good Conduct Medal. Sergeant Oates has proudly served the United States Marines for 11 years.

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TIGERS HOST GAME THREE OF THE ALCS v THE TEXAS RANGERS TONIGHT AT COMERICA PARK

2011-10-11T12:42:00.000-07:00

DETROIT – The American League Central Division Champion Detroit Tigers will continue the American League Championship Series against the Texas Rangers tonight at Comerica Park. Gates open at 6:00 p.m. and first pitch is scheduled for 8:05 p.m.

Tuesday, October 11 2011 - Texas Rangers (Probables: Doug Fister vs. Colby Lewis) @
8:05 p.m. (Gates open at 6:00 p.m.)

· All fans will receive a Detroit Tigers Rally Towel, courtesy of HealthPlus of Michigan.

· Former Detroit Tigers infielder and 1984 World Series Champion Darrell Evans will throw out the first pitch prior to tonight's game.

· The national anthem will be performed by the Queen of Soul Aretha Franklin. Members of the United States Marine Corps will serve as Honor Guard. A 150 x 300 foot American Flag will be presented on the outfield grass during the singing of the national anthem.

· Game Ball Delivery: Current Detroit Tigers pitcher and member of the 2006 American League Championship team Joel Zumaya will deliver the game ball to the pitcher’s mound prior to tonight’s game.

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INJURY UPDATE ON MAGGLIO ORDONEZ

2011-10-09T16:52:00.000-07:00

DETROIT – The Detroit Tigers today announced the following injury information on Magglio Ordonez:

Magglio Ordonez underwent X-rays and a CT Scan this morning in Arlington, TX, which diagnosed a re-fracture of his right ankle at the site that was previously surgically repaired.

He originally suffered a right ankle fracture on July 25, 2010. He underwent a surgical procedure to stabilize the fracture on August 25, 2010, a procedure performed by Dr. Phillip Kwong of the Kerlan-Jobe Clinic in Los Angeles, CA.

The re-fracture of his right ankle will end the 2011 season for Ordonez.

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American League Championship Series Schedule

2011-10-06T21:20:00.000-07:00

American League Championship Series

Game 1 DET @ TEX

Saturday, October 8

FOX

TBA

Game 2 DET @ TEX

Sunday, October 9

FOX

TBA

Game 3 TEX @ DET

Tuesday, October 11

FOX

TBA

Game 4 TEX @ DET

Wednesday, October 12

FOX

TBA

Game 5 TEX @ DET*

Thursday, October 13

FOX

TBA

Game 6 DET @ TEX*

Saturday, October 15

FOX

TBA

Game 7 DET @ TEX*

Sunday, October 16

FOX

TBA

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TIGERS HOST GAME FOUR OF ALDS v YANKEES TONIGHT

2011-10-04T08:08:00.000-07:00

DETROIT – The American League Central Division Champion Detroit Tigers will continue the American League Division Series against the New York Yankees tonight at Comerica Park. All gates will open at 6:30 p.m. First pitch will be at 8:37 p.m.

Tigers Pitcher Rick Porcello
Photo by Matt Harding
In Play! Magazine

October 4 – New York Yankees (Probables: Rick Porcello vs. A.J. Burnett) @ 8:37 p.m. (Gates open at 6:30 p.m.)

· All fans will receive a Detroit Tigers Rally Towel, courtesy of Chevrolet.

· Former Tigers pitcher Todd Jones will throw out the ceremonial first pitch before tonight's game.

· The national anthem will be performed by Michigan-based country rock national recording artist Ty Stone. Members of the United States Border Patrol will serve as Honor Guard.

· Ty Stone will play a pregame acoustic set on the field.

· Game Ball Delivery: Avionic Electrical Technician 3rd Class Ashlee Leppert of the United States Coast Guard from Sterling Heights, Michigan will deliver the game ball. In six years of service, AET3 Leppert has been stationed in Sector San Juan, Air Station Borinquen, Puerto Rico and Air Station Detroit. She has deployed to Cuba and Haiti and was recently in New York City providing Presidential Security at the United Nations Meeting. AET3 Leppert has received the Letter of Commendation, Meritorious Unit Commendation, Good Conduct Medal and National Defense Medal.

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TIGERS TO HOST GAME THREE OF ALDS AGAINST NEW YORK YANKEES TODAY AT COMERICA PARK

2011-10-03T07:00:00.000-07:00

DETROIT – The American League Central Division Champion Detroit Tigers will continue the American League Division Series against the New York Yankees, Monday, October 3, at Comerica Park. All gates will open at 6:30 p.m. First pitch will be at 8:37 p.m.

Monday, October 3 – New York Yankees (Justin Verlander vs. CC Sabathia) @ 8:37 p.m. (Gates open at 6:30 p.m.)

· All fans will receive a Detroit Tigers Rally Towel, courtesy of BallPark and Meijer.

· Former Tigers pitcher Kenny Rogers will throw out the ceremonial first pitch before tomorrow night’s game.

· Special guest Jeff Daniels will play his original song “Tiger Fan Blues” from the top of the Tigers dugout prior to starting lineup announcements.

· The national anthem will be performed by Selected of God Choir. An over-sized American flag will be on display in centerfield during the national anthem. Members of the United States Air Force will serve as Honor Guard.

· Michigan-based country band Annabelle Road will play a pregame acoustic set on the Main Concourse near the Big Cat Court.

· Game Ball Delivery: Master Sergeant Corey Hartzler of the United States Air Force from Saint Clair, Michigan will deliver the game ball. In 19 years of service in the Air Force, he has been deployed 12 times with his more recent tour of duty served in Iraq to support Operation Iraqi Freedom as a Combat Aviation Advisor. He has previously served in Kuwait, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Egypt and the United Arab Emirates. He meritoriously received the Air Force Commendation Medal, Air Force Achievement Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Southwest Asia Service Medal, Iraqi Campaign Medal and the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal.

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Tigers lose close game in ninth, 6-5

2011-09-24T15:31:00.000-07:00

By Matt Harding

In Play on Facebook

The Tigers didn't begin the third game of the four game series very well. Justin Verlander, going after his 25th win, wasn't very "Verlanderly" to start. During just three innings, JV gave up five runs on seven hits. Even hits outs didn't look great; two balls off the bat of Adam Jones reached the warning track in the two deepest parts of the ballpark.

Verlander warms up

Photo by Matt Harding / In Play! Magazine

The fourth inning was the first inning in which Verlander didn't give up a run. The Tigers, however, had something brewing in the fourth. They pushed across two runs, both on sacrifice flies.

The home team scored another run in the sixth and one more in the eighth on an RBI double off the bat of Jhonny Peralta. At this point, the score was knotted up at five apiece.

Verlander pitches to the O's, who had his hand tonight

Photo by Matt Harding / In Play! Magazine

On a wild pitch from Daniel Schlereth, Kyle Hudson went from first to third. This led to the game winning suicide squeeze from Matt Angle.

The Tigers lost 6-5. Verlander pitched seven innings and gave up five runs on eight hits.

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Tigers win in 11 innings against O's

2011-09-23T15:34:00.000-07:00

By Matt Harding

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After losing the first game of the four-game series, the Tigers were back at it Friday night. Rick Porcello took the mound for the Tigers, and, barring a no decision, would be getting either his 15th win or 10th loss of the season.

The Orioles, yet again, got off to an early lead against the Tigers. After a single off the bat of J.J. Hardy, Nick Markakis flew out to center field. Following that, Vladimir Guerrero doubled down the right field line. Hardy scored but Guerrero was thrown out at third trying to advance after the throw home, ending the inning.

The Tigers countered in the bottom of the inning. Austin Jackson led off and was hit by a pitch. After stealing second and reaching third on a sacrifice fly, Jackson scored

on a mammoth home run off the bat of Miguel Cabrera. Cabrera made history with his his 418 ft. homer; he became just the fifth player in Tigers history to reach a total of 100-or-more runs scored, RBI, and walks in a season. The others are Hank Greenberg (1937, '38), Charlie Gehringer (1938), Rocky Colavito (1961), and Norm Cash (1961).

Cabrera's picture perfect swing

Photo by Matt Harding / In Play! Magazine

The Tigers held their 2-1 lead on the O's until the third inning. Robert Andino and Hardy singled and advanced to third and second, respectively, on a wild pitch from Porcello. Markakis hit a sacrifice fly to left field bringing across Andino; Hardy scored on a Matt Wieters single.

Still 3-2 in the fifth, the Tigers scratched back. Leading off with a double was Jhonny Peralta. Two batters later, Ramon Santiago knocked an RBI single to right field.

Porcello was pulled after pitching seven innings; he gave up nine hits, three runs, and struck out four batters. Phil Coke came in for the eighth, shutting down the O's. Joaquin Beniot them down in the top of the ninth.

Porcello threw seven innings, giving up all three Orioles runs

Photo by Matt Harding / In Play! Magazine

In the ninth inning, Cabrera led off with a bloop single to right field. Victor Martinez followed him by grounding out to the second baseman on a 3-2 count. Martinez had four ground outs on the night; three of them were to the second baseman.

Alex Avila was intentionally walked putting Peralta at the plate; the Orioles made the right decision as Peralta struck out, leading to extra innings.

The Tigers brought in closer Jose Valverde in the non-save situation. Coming into the game, Valverde had a 2.36 ERA, two wins and four losses, 47 saves, and almost a strikeout per inning pitched. Though he's not keen on non-save situations, Papa Grande pitched well and got the Tigers to the bottom of the 10th unscathed.

The Tigers play in extra innings (9/23/2011)

Photo by Matt Harding / In Play! Magazine

We would, however, see the 11th inning. Ryan Perry came in to pitch. He gave up a leadoff double to Markakis. Vlad Guerrero walked on four straight pitches. Wieters grounded out into a 3-6-1 double play, leaving it up to Adam Jones. With the runner, Markakis on third, Jones grounded out to Peralta.

Brandon Inge, who came in for Don Kelly as a defensive replacement, led off the inning. He drew a walk. Danny Worth pinch ran for him as Delmon Young walked up to the plate. Young popped the ball straight up to the catcher. Our first baseman, affectionately referred to as Cabby, then stepped up. He singled to right field.

Martinez, and his 0-4 on the day, followed. With one out and two men on, V-Mart got the walk-off hit down the left field line. His teammates mobbed him in between first and second base.

The Tigers tie the series 1-1, winning 4-3 in 11 innings.

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Detroit loses first game in four game series against Baltimore

2011-09-22T15:50:00.000-07:00

By Matt Harding

In Play on Facebook

The Tigers got off to a shaky start in the first game of a four game series against the Baltimore Orioles. Their starter, Jacob Turner, made his third start of the season tonight. He gave up two quit hits and one run in the first inning, throwing more balls than strikes.

The O's scored another run in the third inning off of a J.J. Hardy home run. A two-run home run and sacrifice fly in the fourth gave Baltimore a 5-0 lead.

The Tigers managed to scrape across a run in the bottom of the fourth; after giving up two consecutive walks to Delmon Young and Miguel Cabrera, pitcher Zach Britton got Victor Martinez to ground out into a 6-4-3 double play. Young, who had moved over to third base on a wild pitch, scored on the double play.

Delmon Young home run (9/3/2011)

Photo by Matt Harding / In Play! Magazine

In the fifth inning, the Tigers did a little more than scrape across runs. Brandon Inge led off with a walk. Omir Santos followed him with a solid single to center field. A sacrifice bunt from Austin Jackson moved up both runners. Inge scored on a Magglio Ordonez single; Maggs has a 15-game hit streak. Young followed him with a 3-run home run to left field. The Orioles four run lead had quickly evaporated.

The O's came back in the sixth with Adam Jones scoring on a ground ball after singling, stealing second, and moving over to third on a grounder.

After a scoreless seventh and eighth, the Tigers led off the ninth inning with Jhonny Peralta weakly knocking the ball in between the pitcher and catcher. Don Kelly pinch hit for Inge; he flew out to the left fielder. Alex Avila pinch hit for Santos. He simply grounded out to first base. Just like that, the AL Central Division Champs lost 6-5.

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TIGERS ANNOUNCE 2012 HOME SCHEDULE

2011-09-14T09:41:00.000-07:00

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Season Opens at Home on April 5 versus Boston Red Sox

DETROIT – The Detroit Tigers today released their 2012 home schedule, which features 81 games at Comerica Park, including contests against American League Central Division rivals, Interleague games against the Pittsburgh Pirates, Colorado Rockies and St. Louis Cardinals, as well as a season-opening series against the Boston Red Sox and two visits from the New York Yankees.

A charter member of the American League since 1901, the Tigers will begin their 112^th season at home when the club welcomes the Boston Red Sox for a three-game series, April 5-8 at Comerica Park. The club also welcomes the Tampa Bay Rays during the season-opening homestand for a three-game series April 10-12.

The Tigers welcome the New York Yankees for a three-game series June 1-3 and a four-game series August 6-9. The Tigers host the Pittsburgh Pirates for the first series of Interleague play May 18-20 and then host an Interleague homestand against the Colorado Rockies June 15-17 and St. Louis Cardinals June 19-21.

The Tigers will give away a 2012 Detroit Tigers Magnet Schedule to the first 10,000 fans prior to the game on September 24 versus Baltimore, courtesy of Medical Weight Loss Clinic.

Fans may also pick up a 2012 home schedule at remaining 2011 home games, September 22-25 vs. Baltimore, and September 26-28 vs. Cleveland.

2012 DETROIT TIGERS HOME SCHEDULE

Thursday, April 5, Boston, 1:05 p.m.
April 7, Boston, 1:05 p.m.
April 8, Boston, 1:05 p.m.
April 10, Tampa Bay, 1:05 p.m.
April 11, Tampa Bay, 1:05 p.m.
April 12, Tampa Bay, 1:05 p.m.
April 19, Texas, 7:05 p.m.
April 20, Texas, 7:05 p.m.
April 21, Texas, 1:05 p.m.
April 22, Texas, 1:05 p.m.
April 24, Seattle, 7:05 p.m.
April 25, Seattle, 7:05 p.m.
April 26, Seattle, 1:05 p.m.
April 30, Kansas City, 7:05 p.m.
May 1, Kansas City, 7:05 p.m.
May 2, Kansas City, 7:05 p.m.
May 4, Chicago, 7:05 p.m.
May 5, Chicago, 1:05 p.m.
May 6, Chicago, 1:05 p.m.
May 16, Minnesota, 7:05 p.m.
May 17, Minnesota, 1:05 p.m.
May 18, Pittsburgh, 7:05 p.m.
May 19, Pittsburgh, 7:05 p.m.
May 20, Pittsburgh, 1:05 p.m.
June 1, New York, 7:05 p.m.
June 2, New York, 7:05 p.m.
June 3, New York, 1:05 p.m.
June 5, Cleveland, 7:05 p.m.
June 6, Cleveland, 7:05 p.m.
June 7, Cleveland, 1:05 p.m.
June 15, Colorado, 7:05 p.m.
June 16, Colorado, 7:05 p.m.
June 17, Colorado, 1:05 p.m.
June 19, St. Louis, 7:05 p.m.
June 20, St. Louis, 7:05 p.m.
June 21, St. Louis, 1:05 p.m.
July 2, Minnesota, 7:05 p.m.
July 3, Minnesota, 7:05 p.m.
July 4, Minnesota, 7:05 p.m.
July 5, Minnesota, 1:05 p.m.
July 6, Kansas City, 7:05 p.m.
July 7, Kansas City, 7:05 p.m.
July 8, Kansas City, 1:05 p.m.
July 16, LA Angels, 7:05 p.m.
July 17, LA Angels, 7:05 p.m.
July 18, LA Angels, 7:05 p.m.
July 19, LA Angels, 1:05 p.m.
July 20, Chicago, 7:05 p.m.
July 21, Chicago, 7:05 p.m.
July 22, Chicago, 1:05 p.m.
August 3, Cleveland, 7:05 p.m.
August 4, Cleveland, 7:05 p.m.
August 5, Cleveland, 1:05 p.m.
August 6, New York, 7:05 p.m.
August 7, New York, 7:05 p.m.
August 8, New York, 7:05 p.m.
August 9, New York, 1:05 p.m.
August 17, Baltimore, 7:05 p.m.
August 18, Baltimore, 7:05 p.m.
August 19, Baltimore, 1:05 p.m.
August 21, Toronto, 7:05 p.m.
August 22, Toronto, 7:05 p.m.
August 23, Toronto, 1:05 p.m.
August 24, LA Angels, 7:05 p.m.
August 25, LA Angels, 7:05 p.m.
August 26, LA Angels, 1:05 p.m.
August 31, Chicago, 7:05 p.m.
September 1, Chicago, 7:05 p.m.
September 2, Chicago, 1:05 p.m.
September 3, Cleveland, 1:05 p.m.
September 4, Cleveland, 7:05 p.m.
September 5, Cleveland, 7:05 p.m.
September 18, Oakland, 7:05 p.m.
September 19, Oakland, 7:05 p.m.
September 20, Oakland, 1:05 p.m.
September 21, Minnesota, 7:05 p.m.
September 22, Minnesota, 7:05 p.m.
September 23, Minnesota, 1:05 p.m.
September 25, Kansas City, 7:05 p.m.
September 26, Kansas City, 7:05 p.m.
September 27, Kansas City, 1:05 p.m.

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JUSTIN VERLANDER NAMED DETROIT TIGERS NOMINEE FOR THE 2011 ROBERTO CLEMENTE AWARD PRESENTED BY CHEVROLET

2011-09-13T22:41:00.000-07:00

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Major League Baseball and Chevrolet, the official vehicle of Major League Baseball, today announced that Justin Verlander was named the Detroit Tigers 2011 nominee for the prestigious Roberto Clemente Award presented by Chevrolet. Verlander is one of the 30 Club finalists for the annual award, which recognizes a Major League Baseball player who best represents the game of baseball through positive contributions on and off the field, including sportsmanship and community involvement.

Tomorrow will mark the tenth annual Roberto Clemente Day, which was established by Major League Baseball to honor Clemente’s legacy and to officially recognize local Club nominees of the Roberto Clemente Award presented by Chevrolet.

The Roberto Clemente Award presented by Chevrolet pays tribute to Clemente’s achievements and character by recognizing current players who truly understand the value of helping others. It is named for the 12-time MLB All-Star and Hall of Famer who died in a plane crash on New Year’s Eve 1972 while attempting to deliver supplies to earthquake victims in Nicaragua.

This season, Justin Verlander and the Detroit Tigers teamed up for the very special Verlander’s Victory for Veterans Program, which began in May and has continued through each of his home starts. Verlander has hosted Veterans throughout the season from the John D. Dingell Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Detroit and the Veterans Affairs Ann Arbor Healthcare System. The hosted Veterans sustained injuries or illness in Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom or in Afghanistan during Operation Enduring Freedom.

The Veterans along with their families have continued to cheer on the Tigers from the comfort of Verlander’s personal luxury suite. After serving our country, Verlander’s Victory for Veterans has provided American Veterans with the special opportunity to enjoy a Tigers game with their family. Verlander is scheduled to be recognized for his nomination during a special on-field pregame ceremony at Comerica Park during the last homestand of the season.

"Justin Verlander is quite deserving of his nomination for the Roberto Clemente Award," said Elaine Lewis, Tigers' Vice President of Community Affairs and Strategic Planning. "Justin's dedication to the community exemplifies the character of the Detroit Tigers both on and off the field."

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Tigers win eighth straight on a walk-off home run

2011-09-10T11:46:00.000-07:00

By Matt Harding

In Play on Facebook

Having entered Saturday's game winning 17 of their last 21 games, the Tigers looked to keep up with their winning ways. They had Max Scherzer on the mound facing off against the Twins' Anthony Swarzak.

After a scoreless first inning, the Twins got things moving in the second. Chris Parmelee got on base and went from first to third on a single by Joe Benson; the hit was Benson's first as a big leaguer. Scherzer then picked off Benson while Brian Dinkelman grounded out to third base. The runner on third still did not score. Scherzer finally got out of trouble after Luke Hughes flew out to Delmon Young, who made a great catch on the warning track.

Hitless through two innings, the Tigers started up the bats in the third. Although Jhonny Peralta led off the inning by striking out, Wilson Betemit crushed a home run to right field right after him.

Wilson Betemit gave the Tigers an early 1-0 lead

Photo by Matt Harding / In Play! Magazine

That 1-0 lead didn't hold up for too long. Joe Mauer cranked an opposite field home run, tying the game at one apiece. The Tigers threatened in the fourth; Andy Dirks led off with a ground

rule double to deep center field. He was moved over to third on a Miguel Cabrera ground ball. Dirks scored on a Victor Martinez single. Score: 2-1 Tigers.

Minnesota would tie it up in the sixth with a couple of hits and a sacrifice fly. By the bottom of the inning, with the Tigers at the plate, the shadows crept in between the batter's box and the pitcher's mound. Young struck out swinging and Cabrera grounded out to the second baseman. Martinez didn't seem to be affected by the shadows and drew a walk. Avila flew out to left.

Martinez went 1 for 3 with a walk

Photo by Matt Harding / In Play! Magazine

The seventh inning began with a double off the bat of Benson. After getting his first MLB hit in the second inning, this would be his first extra base hit. However, nothing would come of it as Scherzer struck out two batters.

The Tigers got something cooking in the bottom of the inning as Ramon Santiago doubled and Austin Jackson walked (his second of the game). Dirks couldn't come through, however, and flew out to center field.

Heading into the eighth, the Tigers had two runs on five hits and so did the Twins. Scherzer was taken out of the game for reliever Phil Coke. Scherzer pitched seven strong innings and was responsible for the five hits and two runs; he also walked three and struck out six Minnesota batters.

Peralta did plenty of swinging and missing with his three strikeouts

Photo by Matt Harding / In Play! Magazine

Coke came into the game throwing strikes and got three quick outs. As for the Tigers, they came into the eighth with their 3-4-5 hitters. Young grounded out weakly to the second baseman. Cabrera flew out to right field; Martinez hit a ball to deep center field that was caught.

Al Alburquerque came in during the top of the ninth and shut down the Twins offense. Still tied 2-2 going into the bottom of the ninth, the Tigers looked to stay away from extra innings and get the walk off base hit. Could Avila do it? How about Peralta, who had accrued a hat-trick's worth of strikeout? Or could it be the sub-.200 hitter Brandon Inge, who had replaced Wilson Betemit defensively the previous inning?

It wasn't Avila; he grounded out to the shortstop. Nor was it Peralta, although, he didn't strike out for the fourth time.

That sub-.200 hitter I just mentioned... it was HIM! Inge hit a no-doubter to the left field stands, giving the Tigers their eighth straight victory.

After tomorrow's series finale, the club begins a nine-game road trip to Chicago, Oakland, and Kansas City. Stay tuned for photos from after the game tomorrow. And, as always, Go Tigers!

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Tigers win first game in Twins series, 8-4

2011-09-09T16:05:00.000-07:00

By Matt Harding

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The first game of the weekend series against the Minnesota Twins began with a 51 minute rain delay. The first inning seemed to go by almost as slowly. Brad Penny threw 44 pitches, gave up four runs on four hits. That took only about 20 minutes.

After going 1-2-3 in the first, the Tigers came back with a vengeance in the second. After singles from Miguel Cabrera and Victor Martinez, Alex Avila blasted a 358 ft. home run to the opposite field. To this point, the Tigers were still down 4-3.

Alex Avila in the batter's box

Photo by Matt Harding / In Play! Magazine

In the fourth, still down by a run, the Tigs started clawing at the deficit. Avila, who led off, was hit by a pitch. Following a flyout off the bat of Jhonny Peralta, Wilson Betemit tripled down the line in right, scoring Avila. The next batter, Ramon Santiago, hit a home run into the second row in right field. The Tigers now held the lead by a score of 6-4. A lead-off home run in the fifth off the bat of Delmon Young made the score 7-4.

After scoreless six and seventh innings, the Tigers scored yet again in the eighth. After doubling and going to third on a passed ball, Avila scored his 100th run of the season, making it 8-4.

The Tigers brought in closer Jose Valverde in the ninth, even though it wasn't a save situation. He, however, did his job nonetheless.

FINAL SCORE at Comerica Park: 8-4.

Brad Penny went five innings, giving up four earned runs on five hits; he also walked three and struck out one.

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Tigers sweep White Sox convincingly, winning 18-2 on Sunday

2011-09-04T16:58:00.001-07:00

By Matt Harding

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Coming into the final game of a three-game series against the Chicago White Sox, the Tigers held a commanding series lead. Justin Verlander won his 21st game of the season on Friday in what was the first game of the series. They won with a score of 8-1.

Saturday afternoon's ballgame was an "on the edge of your seat" game; the Tigers were losing 8-1, the same score they won by on the previous day. Things started to turn around in the fifth inning, and, before the rain delay, they were only down by three. And obviously, if you're an adamant fan, you know of the late inning heroics by Ryan Raburn and Miguel Cabrera.

Cabrera after his walk-off home run on Saturday

Photo by Matt Harding / In Play! Magazine

Sunday's match-up saw Max Scherzer facing off against longtime White Sock Mark Buehrle. The home team got off to an early lead after an Austin Jackson double to lead off of the game. Victor Martinez knocked him in with a single. And with that, the Tigs were off to a 1-0 lead.

After a scoreless second inning, the Tigers came pouncing back in the third. With two men on and a 3-2 count on Martinez, Jim Leyland made the gutsy call to send the runners (there was only one out). The call paid off as V-Mart knocked a liner to left field, scoring Magglio Ordonez. A single by Alex Avila scored Delmon Young. After a botched double play, Martinez would score.

Martinez has had a great series against the White Sox

Photo by Matt Harding / In Play! Magazine

Ahead to the fourth inning, Brandon Inge started off with an opposite field single. After an Austin Jackson walk and an Ordonez sacrifice fly, Young singled and Cabrera doubled. With Cabby on second base, Mark Buehrle was removed from the game after giving up seven earned runs on ten hits. He gave way to Addison Reed, who was making his Major League debut. Reed faced Martinez, who popped up to the second baseman. The second batter he faced, Avila, fared better; he drove in Cabrera. That run would be attributed to Buehrle.

The next run, however, was attributed to Reed. He gave up an RBI single to Peralta. Raburn then singled, giving way to Inge; he struck out swinging. The score: 9-0.

In the sixth, the Tigers piled it on, scoring seven more runs. The last two of those runs came on a Cabrera home run; the score remained at 16-0 until the eighth where Andy Dirks, who was a pinch hitter for Delmon Young during a prior at-bat, hit a two-run home run.

With 18 runs on 24 hits, a season best for both, the Tigers routed the White Sox in the final game of the series. Of course, the White Sox didn't lay down entirely. They scored two runs on reliever Duane Below. Still, 18-2?! Holy cow! The Tigers have an afternoon game on Monday against the Cleveland Indians at Progressive Field.

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ALEX AVILA TO SIGN PHOTO CARDS AT VERIZON STORE IN LIVONIA

2011-08-29T15:36:00.001-07:00

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WHAT: Alex Avila Appearance at Verizon Store in Livonia

WHEN: Tuesday, August 30 (12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.)

WHERE: Verizon Store (Inside Walmart)
29555 Plymouth Road
Livonia, MI
WHY: Detroit Tigers catcher and 2011 All-Star Alex Avila is scheduled to greet fans and sign photo cards tomorrow, August 30, at the Verizon Store inside Walmart in Livonia.

Only complimentary photo cards will be signed. Limit one per person, while supplies last. No other items will be signed.

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SUNDAY'S GAME TIME MOVED FROM 1:05 P.M. TO 8:09 P.M.

2011-08-19T18:29:00.000-07:00

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TIGERS TO BE FEATURED ON ESPN SUNDAY NIGHT
BASEBALL ON SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 4

DETROIT – The Detroit Tigers announced today that their Sunday, September 4 contest against the Chicago White Sox at Comerica Park, originally scheduled for 1:05 p.m. will be moved to 8:09 p.m. and be broadcast nationally on ESPN2 as part of ESPN Sunday Night Baseball.

All tickets already purchased for the scheduled 1:05 p.m. start time will be honored. No ticket exchange is necessary.

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Tigers to Sign Autgraphs at ABC Warehouse Saturday

2011-08-19T12:42:00.000-07:00

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AL ALBURQUERQUE AND PHIL COKE TO SIGN
AUTOGRAPHS SATURDAY AT ABC WAREHOUSE
IN DEARBORN AS PART OF
GLOVES FOR KIDS PROGRAM

WHAT: Gloves for Kids Autograph Signing

WHEN: Saturday, August 20, 2011 (12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.)

WHERE: ABC Warehouse
15253 Michigan Avenue
Dearborn, MI 48126

WHY: Gloves for Kids is a program designed to provide Detroit’s youth with the sporting equipment necessary to participate in organized baseball and softball. During select dates in May, June and July, Detroit Tigers players made appearances along with representatives from WXYT and WWJ AM (CBS Radio) at various Metro Detroit ABC Warehouse locations. Similar to past visits, Tigers players will sign autographs in exchange for donations of new or gently used baseball and softball equipment such as gloves, cleats, bats, balls, shin guards etc. Monetary donations are also accepted. CBS Radio stations and the Tigers will also collect equipment at Comerica Park on September 10.

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TIGERS SEND LESTER OLIVEROS TO MINNESOTA AS THE PLAYER TO BE NAMED LATER IN DELMON YOUNG DEAL

2011-08-16T11:06:00.000-07:00

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DETROIT – The Detroit Tigers today announced the club has traded righthanded pitcher Lester Oliveros to the Minnesota Twins as the player to be named later to complete yesterday’s trade in which outfielder Delmon Young was acquired.

Oliveros appeared in nine games with the Tigers in 2011, posting a 5.63 ERA (8.0IP/5ER). He posted a 1-3 record, 6.43 ERA (28.0IP/20ER) and five saves in 22 appearances with Triple A Toledo. Oliveros saw action in 10 games with Double A Erie, compiling a 2-0 record, 0.53 ERA (17.0IP/1ER) and 28 strikeouts.

Oliveros will be assigned to Triple A Rochester by the Twins organization.

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STATEMENT FROM JIM LEYLAND ON HIS CONTRACT EXTENSION

2011-08-08T10:15:00.000-07:00

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DETROIT – The following is a statement from Detroit Tigers manager Jim Leyland on his contract extension through the 2012 season:

“I want to thank Mr. Ilitch and Dave Dombrowski for the support and confidence they have shown in me and I look forward to managing the Detroit Tigers in 2012. Also, my many thanks go out to generations of Tigers fans who have supported the Tigers through the good times as well as the tough times. I’m proud to take the responsibility to assure Mr. Ilitch, Dave and our many fans that we will never fall short of doing everything we can to maintain the pride of our organization and our fans.”

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DAVID DOMBROWSKI AND TIGERS AGREE TO A FOUR-YEAR CONTRACT EXTENSION; MANAGER JIM LEYLAND EXTENDED THROUGH 2012 SEASON

2011-08-08T10:10:00.000-07:00

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DETROIT – The Detroit Tigers announced today the club and President, Chief Executive Officer and General Manager David Dombrowski have agreed on a four-year contract extension through 2015. In addition the contract of Tigers Manager Jim Leyland was extended through the 2012 season. In accordance with team policy, additional terms of the deals were not disclosed.

“Dave has built a solid foundation for this organization and assembled competitive teams that give us a chance to win year in and year out. We have a lot of confidence in his continued leadership of the Detroit Tigers,” said Owner/Director Michael Ilitch. “I am pleased Dave has agreed to continue to lead our organization.” Regarding Manager Jim Leyland, Mr. Ilitch added, “I know Jim shares our desire to deliver a winner. We’re pleased to have him continue leading the Detroit Tigers on the field.”

Dombrowski, in his 10th season with the Tigers, and his 33rd in professional baseball, was named the club’s president and chief executive officer on November 5, 2001, before adding the role of general manager on April 8, 2002. The Tigers captured the American League Pennant in 2006, Dombrowski’s fifth season with the club.

“I am grateful for the continued opportunity Mr. Ilitch has given me to run this franchise, and I am equally appreciative of the unwavering support he has demonstrated the past ten seasons in our efforts to bring a World Championship back to Detroit,” Dombrowski said.

Prior to joining the Tigers, Dombrowski served as the president and general manager of the Florida Marlins. He was named the Marlins first executive vice president and general manager on September 19, 1991, and he added the duties of president on March 1, 2000. Dombrowski was the architect of the 1997 World Series Champions Marlins.

Leyland is in sixth season as the manager of the Tigers, compiling a 485-442 record (.523). He led the Tigers to the 2006 World Series and is 15 wins shy of becoming the fifth manager in Tigers history to register 500 victories with the club. Leyland, now in his 20th season as a major league manager, registered the 1,500th win of his career on April 15 at Oakland, becoming just the 19th manager in major league history to accomplish the feat.

“We’re delighted Jim will continue as Tigers manager through the 2012 season,” said Dombrowski. “He has led the Tigers to a World Series, and guided a contending team on a consistent basis during his tenure as manager. Jim’s managerial record and accomplishments speak for themselves.”

In related announcements, the Tigers have also extended the contracts of Vice President/Assistant General Manager Al Avila, Vice President, Amateur Scouting/Special Assistant to the General Manager David Chadd, Vice President, Player Personnel Scott Reid, and Vice President, Baseball Legal Counsel John Westhoff.

“Collectively, it’s as fine a group of quality baseball people as you will find,” said Dombrowski. “They continue to make significant contributions to the organization.”

The Tigers also promoted Duane McLean to Executive Vice President, Business Operations. “Duane does a great job of running the day-to-day business operations and the title change reflects the additional responsibilities he continues to take on,” Dombrowski said.

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TIGERS ACQUIRE DOUG FISTER AND DAVID PAULEY FROM MARINERS

2011-07-30T11:36:00.000-07:00

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DETROIT – The Detroit Tigers today announced the club has acquired righthanded pitchers Doug Fister and David Pauley from the Seattle Mariners in exchange for lefthanded pitcher Charlie Furbush, third baseman Francisco Martinez, outfielder Casper Wells and a player to be named later on or before August 20.

Fister, 27, started 21 games for the Mariners this season, posting a 3-12 record and 3.33 ERA (146.0IP/54ER). He fanned 89 batters with Seattle this season, while surrendering 139 hits and issuing 32 walks. Fister is tied for seventh among all American League pitchers with 2.0 walks per nine innings.

In three seasons at the major league level with the Mariners (2009-11), Fister has compiled a 3.81 ERA (378.0IP/160ER) in 60 appearances (59 starts). He is third among all American League pitchers since the start of the 2009 season with 1.88 walks per nine innings.

Pauley, 28, has appeared in 39 games with Seattle in 2011, compiling a 5-4 record and 2.15 ERA (54.1IP/13ER). He has limited opponents to a .200 batting average (38x190) this season, while fanning 34 batters and issuing 16 walks. Pauley is tied for the lead among all American League relievers with five wins.

In four seasons at the major league level with the Boston Red Sox (2006, 2008) and Mariners (2010-11), Pauley has posted a 4.36 ERA (173.1IP/84ER) in 67 outings (20 starts).

The Tigers will announce corresponding roster moves when Fister and Pauley report to the club.

Furbush, 25, compiled a 1-3 record and 3.62 ERA (32.1IP/13ER) in 17 appearances (two starts) with the Tigers this season. He finished 5-3 with a 3.17 ERA (54.0IP/19ER) in 10 outings (nine starts) with Triple A Toledo in 2011. Furbush will join the Mariners at the major league level.

Martinez, 20, saw action in 91 games with Double A Erie in 2011, batting .282 (98x348) with 14 doubles, four triples, seven home runs and 46 RBI. He will be assigned to Double A Jackson by the Mariners.

Wells, 26, hit .257 (29x113) with 10 doubles, four home runs and 12 RBI in 64 games with the Tigers in 2011. He batted .370 (10x27) with two doubles, two triples, two home runs and six RBI in seven games with Triple A Toledo this season. Wells will join the Mariners at the major league level.

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TIGERS ACQUIRE WILSON BETEMIT FROM KANSAS CITY ROYALS IN EXCHANGE FOR ANTONIO CRUZ AND JULIO RODRIGUEZ

2011-07-20T21:23:00.000-07:00

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DETROIT – The Detroit Tigers today announced the club has acquired third baseman Wilson Betemit from the Kansas City Royals in exchange for lefthanded pitcher Antonio Cruz and catcher Julio Rodriguez.

Betemit, 29, batted .281 (57x203) with 15 doubles, a triple, three home runs and 27 RBI in 57 games with the Royals in 2011. He has primarily played third base for the Royals this season, seeing action in 47 games at the position. Additionally, Betemit saw action at first base (three games) and second base (one game) with Kansas City.

A veteran of nine seasons at the major league level with the Atlanta Braves (2001, 2004-06), Los Angeles Dodgers (2006-07), New York Yankees (2007-08), Chicago White Sox (2009) and Royals (2010-11), Betemit has posted a .268 batting average (434x1622), 100 doubles, five triples, 58 home runs and 224 RBI in 657 games during his career.

The Tigers will announce a corresponding roster when Betemit reports to the club.

Cruz, 19, posted a 2-6 record, 3.11 ERA (75.1IP/26ER), one save and 58 strikeouts in 22 outings (10 starts) with Single A West Michigan in 2011.

Rodriguez, 21, saw action in 66 games with Single A Lakeland this season, hitting .283 (64x226) with 11 doubles, a triple, home run and 27 RBI.

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SECOND HALF OF THE SEASON BEGINS AS TIGERS FACE CENTRAL DIVISION-RIVAL CHICAGO WHITE SOX

2011-07-14T08:21:00.000-07:00

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HOMESTAND HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE FRIDAY NIGHT FIREWORKS, NEGRO LEAGUES WEEKEND, JHONNY PERALTA REPLICA GLOVE, MADE IN DETROIT COLLEGE NIGHT AND CHRISTMAS IN JULY

DETROIT – The Tigers begin the second half of the season this Friday as they host their division-rival Chicago White Sox (July 15-17) and Oakland Athletics (July 19-20) during a five-game homestand at Comerica Park. The White Sox series begins with a 7:05 p.m. start on Friday, continues with a 4:10 p.m. start on Saturday, and concludes with a 1:05 p.m. start on Sunday. Tuesday and Wednesday’s contests against Oakland will both begin at 7:05 p.m.

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Guillen's Injury Rehab Assignment Transferred to Erie

2011-07-11T09:24:00.000-07:00

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The Tigers today announced the club has transferred the injury rehabilitation assignment of second baseman Carlos Guillen from Triple A Toledo to Double A Erie. Guillen will join the SeaWolves to play tonight with the club at Akron. Toledo begins the club's all-star break today and returns to action on Thursday versus Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. Guillen is scheduled to have his injury rehabilitation assignment transferred back to Toledo by the Tigers on Thursday.

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Rick Knapp Relieved of Duties as Tigers Pitching Coach

2011-07-03T14:59:00.000-07:00

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TIGERS NAME JEFF JONES AS CLUB’S PITCHING COACH
Mike Rojas Joins Staff as Bullpen Coach,

DETROIT --- The Detroit Tigers today announced the club has named Jeff Jones the club’s pitching coach and Mike Rojas will join the major league coaching staff as the team’s bullpen coach. Rick Knapp has been relieved of his duties as the club’s pitching coach.

Jones has served as Detroit’s bullpen coach since being named to the position by Jim Leyland on November 9, 2006. He began his professional coaching career with the Tigers organization in 1989, serving as a pitching coach at the minor league level throughout the years with Single A Fayetteville (1989), Double A London (1991-92), Double A Jacksonville (1996) and Triple A Toledo (1990, 1993-94, 1997-98, 2000-06). Jones worked as the bullpen coach in Detroit in 1995, the final month of the 1998 season and all of 1999, in addition to joining the major league staff to serve the remainder of the season in that role on both September 7, 2000 and April 9, 2002.

Jones was selected by Oakland in the 13^th round of the June 1977 draft and his pitching career spanned 11 seasons (1977-87). He saw action at the major league level during five seasons with Oakland (1980-84).

Rojas joined the Tigers organization in 2004 to serve as the manager at Single A Oneonta. He spent two seasons as the manager at Single A Lakeland (2005-06) and one as the manager at Triple A Toledo (2007) before he worked three seasons as the organization’s minor league field coordinator (2008-10). Rojas was named Detroit’s Director of Player Development on August 6, 2010, a role he held until being named to the major league coaching staff today.

Rojas will join the club in Anaheim on Monday as the Tigers begin a seven-game road trip leading up to the all-star break. Tigers Vice President/Assistant General Manager Al Avila will continue to oversee the organization’s player development operation, receiving additional assistance from the club’s Vice President, Amateur Scouting/Special Assistant to the General Manager David Chadd and Avila will continue working directly with Kevin Bradshaw (minor league field coordinator) and Jon Matlack (minor league pitching coordinator).

Knapp joined the Tigers as the club’s pitching coach on October 17, 2008. Prior to joining the Tigers, he served 12 seasons as the minor league pitching coordinator with the Minnesota Twins (1997-2008).

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Tigers win final game in Giants series, 6-3

2011-07-03T14:21:00.000-07:00

By Matt Harding

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Rick Porcello had been less than stellar coming into today's game against the San Francisco Giants. That'd change today. In seven innings, Porcello gave up three runs on five hits, striking out six batters. No -- not the best outing, but certainly not the worst. Joaquin Benoit would relieve him in the eighth, getting out of the inning with a spectacular diving catch by Ryan Raburn in left field.

Rick Porcello warms up in between innings

Photo by Matt Harding / In Play! Magazine

Closer Jose Valverde, in his first outing after being voted a 2011 All-Star, received his 20th save of the season. Papa Grande gave up a base hit, walked one, and struck out the final batter.

Brennan Boesch hit a solo home run to get things started for the Tigers in the fourth inning. At that point the game was tied 1-1. Magglio Ordonez knocked a 2-RBI single up the middle in the seventh inning making the game 4-3 in Detroit's favor.

Boesch hive-fives Gene Lamont after his home run

Photo by Matt Harding / In Play! Magazine

In the eighth, Brandon Inge gave the Tigers some insurance runs with his 2-RBI triple. Those runs, scored by Alex Avila (voted as the starting catcher for his first All-Star Game today) and Ramon Santiago, would be the final runs of the game for either team.

All-Star Alex Avila

Photo by Matt Harding / In Play! Magazine

Before the All-Star Break, the Tigers start a three game set in Anaheim against the Angels (Mon-Wed) and a four game series in Kansas City against the Royals (Thurs-Sun). Major League Baseball's Home Run Derby and All-Star Game will be the following Monday and Tuesday, respectively.

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TIGERS TODAY SUNDAY JULY 3

2011-07-03T08:49:00.000-07:00

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TIGERS AT A GLANCE
Record: 44-40 / Streak: L2
Game #85 / Home #46
Home: 26-19 / Road: 18-21
TV/Radio
FSD/AM 1270 & 97.1 FM
TIGERS VS. GIANTS

SUNDAY, JULY 3, 2011- 1:05 p.m.
DETROIT TIGERS (44-40)
RHP Rick Porcello (6-6, 5.06)
vs. SAN FRANCISCO GIANTS (48-36)
RHP Ryan Vogelsong (6-1, 2.09)

RECENT RESULTS:
Comerica Park. Max Scherzer (9-4) took the loss for Detroit after allowing nine runs
(six earned) in two innings of work. Jhonny Peralta and Brennan Boesch both belted
solo home runs for the Tigers, while Ryan Raburn finished with a single, double and
an RBI. The Tigers conclude a 10-game homestand today with the final game of a
three-game series versus the Giants. Following this afternoon’s game, the club hits
the road for a seven-game trip to Anaheim and Kansas City.

The Tigers suffered a 15-3 loss to the Giants last night at
WILK RECALLED, VILLARREAL OPTIONED:
contract of lefthanded pitcher Adam Wilk from Triple A Toledo. Wilk has started 10
games for the Mud Hens in 2011, posting a 4-5 record and 3.75 ERA (60.0IP/25ER).
Detroit optioned the contract of righthanded pitcher Brayan Villarreal to Toledo following
last night’s game versus San Francisco.

The Tigers today have recalled the
WINNING WAYS:
May 3, a .582 winning percentage. The Tigers are third among all American League
clubs with a .582 winning percentage during that stretch. The Red Sox have
compiled a 35-19 record during the stretch, a .648 winning percentage,
while the Yankees have posted a 33-22 record, a .600 winning percentage.
Detroit has won 32 of the club’s last 55 games dating back to
INTERLEAGUE HAPPENINGS:
of the club’s 18 games during interleague play in 2011. Since interleague play
started in 1997, the Tigers have compiled a 140-124 record. The Tigers are 68-39
in interleague games at Comerica Park. Detroit is 6-11 during interleague action in
2011.

Today’s contest against the Giants is Detroit’s last
ON THE OFFENSIVE:
scored, 48 doubles, nine triples and 36 home runs over the club’s last 29 games
dating back to June 3. Detroit is tops among all American League clubs with a .298
batting average during that stretch, while the club is tied for the lead with 36 home
runs, is second with a .470 slugging percentage and third with 146 runs scored.

The Tigers are batting .298 (302x1012) with 146 runs
VICTOR AT THE BAT:
home runs and 21 RBI over his last 34 games dating back to May 27. He is tops
among all American League players with a .381 batting average during that stretch.

Victor Martinez is hitting .381 (48x126) with 10 doubles, two
BOESCH IS BASHING:
seven home runs and 14 RBI over his last 28 games dating back to June 3. He
leads the American League with 44 hits during that stretch, while he is second with
a .400 batting average, fourth with a .673 slugging percentage and tied for ninth
with seven home runs.

Brennan Boesch is hitting .400 (44x110) with nine doubles,GAME BALL DELIVERY:
Griswold of the United States Army from Edmore, Michigan. Specialist Griswold
recently returned from his first tour of duty in Iraq.

Today’s game ball will be delivered by Specialist Adam
KIDS DAY:
will receive an “Every Kid Every Sunday” Justin Verlander Superhero Cape, courtesy
of Little Caesars. Kids can also enjoy free rides on the Comerica Bank Carousel or
the Fly Ball Ferris Wheel courtesy of Red Robin, free face painting at Gates A and B
and free hair spray painting courtesy of Great Clips. Additionally, there is a chance
for all kids to win a bicycle, compliments of Meijer. After the game all children are
invited down to the field for Kids Run the Bases, courtesy of Pepsi.

All Sunday home games are Kids Days at Comerica Park. Today all kids
TODAY’S TIDBITS
• Today’s national anthem will be performed
by Lori Adams.
• Today’s first pitch will be thrown out by a
Kids Club Raffle Winner.

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Giants closer Brian Wilson throws tantrum

2011-07-01T19:51:00.001-07:00

By Matt Harding

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If you happened to be watching the Tigers play this evening against the San Francisco Giants, you saw Brian Wilson get knocked around by Tigers hitting. He only got two outs, one in the eighth and one in the ninth. He blew a save opportunity in the eighth inning on a base hit by Magglio Ordonez, and, in total, gave up four hits, two earned runs, and one walk.

When manager Bruce Bochy pulled him for Jeremy Affeldt, he proceeded to go to the dugout and act like a child, throwing a tantrum. Wilson threw a Gatorade cooler at the bench and then threw a bat, which he would soon pick up, running across the dugout to show us all his best Happy Gilmore swing. He finished up by punching what appeared to be a plastic gum and seeds container.

When does Major League Baseball step in and clean up inexcusable acts such as this one? They won't. Sure, they (or the club) may fine him. However, the number will be like pocket change to a big leaguer. I don't care how big of a superstar you are or how many saves you have, on my team, well...you wouldn't be on my team.

Oh, by the way, the Tigers lost on a line drive double play off the bat of Brennan Boesch.

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Tiger Roster Moves - Friday July, 1

2011-07-01T09:28:00.000-07:00

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ALBURQUERQUE PLACED ON DL, OLIVEROS RECALLED: The Tigers have placed righthanded pitcher Al Alburquerque on the 15-day disabled list retroactive to June 30 with right forearm flexor mass inflammation. The club today has recalled the contract of righthanded pitcher Lester Oliveros from Triple A Toledo. Oliveros is 1-2 with a 4.37 ERA (22.2IP/11ER), five saves and 22 strikeouts in 17 outings with Toledo this season.

GUILLEN’S INJURY REHAB TRANSFERRED TO TOLEDO: Carlos Guillen’s injury rehabilitation assignment will be transferred from Single A Lakeland to Triple A Toledo today. He joined Lakeland to begin an injury rehabilitation assignment on Monday. He hit .200 (3x15) with two doubles and two RBI in three games with Lakeland.

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TIGERS TODAY-THURSDAY, JUNE 30, 2011- 1:05 p.m.

2011-06-30T07:45:00.000-07:00

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DETROIT TIGERS (43-38)
RHP Justin Verlander (10-3, 2.38)
vs.
NEW YORK METS (41-39)
RHP Mike Pelfrey (4-6, 4.78)

TIGERS AT A GLANCE
Record: 43-38 / Streak: W1
Game #82 / Home #43
Home: 25-17 / Road: 18-21
TV/Radio
FSD/AM 1270 & 97.1 FM

RECENT RESULTS
The Tigers suffered a 16-9 loss to the Mets last night. Phil Coke (1-8) took the loss for Detroit after allowing eight runs (seven earned) in four innings of work. Miguel Cabrera homered twice and drove in four runs for the Tigers, while Andy Dirks, Jhonny Peralta and Ryan Raburn all homered. The Tigers continue a 10-game homestand today with the final game of a three-game series versus the Mets. The homestand continues with a three-game series against the Giants beginning tomorrow night.

SCHLERETH OPTIONED; VILLARREAL RECALLED
Following last night’s game, the Tigers optioned the contract of lefthanded pitcher Daniel Schlereth to Triple A Toledo. Detroit today recalled the contract of righthanded pitcher Brayan Villarrealrom Toledo. Villarreal posted a 0-5 record and 4.41 ERA (32.2IP/16ER) in seven outings (five starts) with the Mud Hens in 2011.
WINNING WAYS
Detroit has won 31 of the club’s last 52 games dating back to May 3, a .596 winning percentage. The Tigers are second among all American League clubs with a .596 winning percentage during that stretch. The Boston Red Sox have compiled a 32-19 record during the stretch, a .627 winning percentage.

ON THE OFFENSIVE IN JUNE
The Tigers are batting .297 (280x942) with 139 runs scored, 44 doubles, nine triples and 34 home runs in 27 games during June. Detroit is tops among American League clubs with a .297 batting average, 34 home
runs and a .471 slugging percentage during the month, while the club is second with 139 runs scored.

VICTOR AT THE BAT
Victor Martinez is hitting .373 (44x118) with nine doubles, two home runs and 21 RBI over his last 31 games dating back to May 27. He is fourth among all American League players with a .373 batting average during that stretch.

BOESCH IS BASHING
Brennan Boesch enters today’s game versus the Mets hitting .390 (39x100) with eight doubles, six home runs and 13 RBI over his last 25 games dating back to June 3. He is tied for the lead in the American League with 39 hits during that stretch, while he is third with a .390 batting average, sixth with a .650 slugging percentage and tied for ninth with six home runs.

PLAYING LONGBALL
The Tigers belted five home runs last night against New York to mark the seventh time the club has connected for five-or-more runs at home during the 12-year history of Comerica Park. Detroit last belted five-or-more home runs at Comerica Park on September 25, 2008 versus Tampa Bay.

GAME BALL DELIVERY
Today’s game ball will be delivered by Staff Sergeant Dominic Prankienas of the United States Army from Bay City, Michigan. Staff Sergeant Prankienas has served one tour in Iraq and is currently home on leave
while deployed to Afghanistan. Staff Sergeant Prankienas has proudly served the United States Army for five years.

VERLANDER’S VICTORY FOR VETERANS
During today’s game against the Mets, Detroit Tigers starting pitcher Justin Verlander will host a group of Veterans from the John D. Dingell Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Detroit and the Veterans Affairs Ann Arbor Healthcare System in his private luxury suite. These Veterans sustained injuries or illnesses in Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom or in Afghanistan during Operation Enduring Freedom.

TODAY’S TIDBITS
• Today’s national anthem will be performed by the Saline Area Summer Band.
• Today’s first pitch will be thrown out by a Tigers suite holder, and representatives from CBS Radio and the Tigers Fantasy Experience.

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Tigers retire Sparky's number, win 8-3

2011-06-26T14:50:00.000-07:00

By Matt Harding

In Play on Facebook

The ceremony

The Tigers picked up the final game of the three game series against the Arizona Diamondbacks, winning 8-3. However, the focus before the game would be on the number retirement ceremony for George "Sparky" Anderson, longtime Detroit manager. Many former Tigers were on hand to celebrate the occasion including: Al Kaline, Willie Horton, Lou Whitaker, Dan Petry, Ernie Harwell's old broadcasting partner Paul Carey, and Kirk Gibson and Alan Trammell, whose team was in town for the series. (Gibson is the manager of the team while Trammell is his bench coach; a reversal of roles from their days on the Tiger's coaching staff).

Sparky fans came out in droves to watch the ceremony.

Photo by Matt Harding / In Play! Magazine

The Sparky flag will be given

to the Anderson family after the 2011 season.

Photo by Matt Harding / In Play! Magazine

The jersey presented to the Anderson family.

Photo by Matt Harding / In Play! Magazine

The unveiling of Sparky's #11.

Photo by Matt Harding / In Play! Magazine

The game

Brad Penny pitched 6.2 innings for the Tigers, allowing two runs on eight hits, walking only one and striking out two batters. Al Alburquerque gets the win, his fifth of the year, pitching 1.1 innings giving up two hits and no runs.

The contest was 2-1 after the seventh inning, in favor of the D-Backs. But, in the bottom of the eighth, the Tigers pounced, scoring a whopping seven runs. The Diamondbacks, with two more hits than the Tigers, lose by five runs, 8-3.

Take a look HERE for more photos from the ceremony and photos of the game itself.

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ALEX AVILA AND MAX SCHERZER TO SIGN AUTOGRAPHS SATURDAY

2011-06-24T11:30:00.000-07:00

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GLOVES FOR KIDS PROGRAM

WHAT: Gloves for Kids Autograph Signing

WHEN: Saturday, June 25, 2011 (12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.)

WHERE: ABC Warehouse
7215 E. 10 Mile
Centerline, MI 48015

WHY: Gloves for Kids is a program designed to provide Detroit’s youth with the sporting equipment necessary to participate in organized baseball and softball. During select dates in May, June, July and August, Detroit Tigers players will make appearances along with representatives from WXYT and WWJ AM (CBS Radio) at various Metro Detroit ABC Warehouse locations. Tigers players will sign autographs during each visit in exchange for donations of new or gently used baseball and softball equipment such as gloves, cleats, bats, balls, shin guards etc. Monetary donations are also accepted.

As part of the Gloves for Kids program, Tigers catcher Alex Avila and Tigers pitcher Max Scherzer will sign autographs tomorrow at ABC Warehouse in Centerline.

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TIGERS TO RETIRE SPARKY ANDERSON’S NUMBER 11 ON SUNDAY

2011-06-24T09:03:00.000-07:00

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Fans Encouraged to Arrive Early for

Ceremony Slated to Begin at 12:45 p.m.

DETROIT – Hall of Fame manager Sparky Anderson will be given the Tigers’ highest honor on Sunday afternoon as his number 11 jersey will be retired by the team in a pregame ceremony at Comerica Park. Anderson’s number 11 is just the seventh to be retired in the club’s 111-year history and the first since Willie Horton had his number 23 jersey retired during the 2000 season. Along with Horton, Anderson joins Hal Newhouser (16), Hank Greenberg (5), Charlie Gehringer (2) and Al Kaline (6) in having jersey numbers retired by the Tigers. Jackie Robinson’s number 42 has also been retired by all 30 major league clubs.

Anderson will be represented by his three children and their spouses, two grandchildren, a nephew, former players and other dignitaries for a ceremony on the field. Tigers Owner Michael Ilitch and Tigers President, CEO and General Manager David Dombrowski will represent the Tigers during the ceremony, which will be emceed by Tigers’ radio play-by-play voice Dan Dickerson.

“Sparky was truly one of the great managers in baseball,” said Tigers Owner Michael Ilitch. “He had a tremendous impact on the Detroit Tigers and our community. We’re proud to honor Sparky by adding his number 11 to the list of Tigers greats on the brick wall at Comerica Park.”

Anderson managed at the major league level for 26 seasons, including 17 with the Tigers from 1979-95. He recorded 1,331 victories as the Tigers manager and led the club to a World Series title during the 1984 season. He remains the Tigers all-time leader with 1,331 victories and 2,579 games managed. He was named American League Manager of the Year in both 1984 and 1987 and was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 2000.

In addition to his 17 seasons as Tigers manager, he left a lasting impact on the community through CATCH, a children’s charity he founded in 1987. CATCH raises funds to provide a current and future source of revenue to help improve the quality of life for sick, injured and at-risk pediatric patients who receive care from Children’s Hospital of Michigan and Henry Ford Hospital.

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Tigers Roster Move Update

2011-06-23T06:48:00.000-07:00

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Following yesterday's game against the Dodgers, the Tigers optioned the contract of lefthanded pitcher Adam Wilk to Triple A Toledo. Today, the club has optioned the contract of infielder Danny Worth to Toledo and recalled the injury rehabilitation assignment of Brandon Inge from Toledo and reinstated him from the disabled list. Prior to tomorrow night's game against the Diamondbacks, the club will recall the contract of righthanded pitcher Ryan Perry from Triple A Toledo.

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TIGERS STATEMENT ON THE PASSING OF 68' TIGER GREAT JIM NORTHRUP

2011-06-09T07:11:00.000-07:00

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Club Statement from the Detroit Tigers on the Passing of Jim Northrup:

"The Detroit Tigers organization was saddened to hear of the passing of Jim Northrup. Jim dedicated 21 years with the Tigers, parts of 11 seasons as a player, and 10 in the Tigers television booth. Jim was instrumental in the Tigers 1968 World Series championship season. His significant contributions with the bat and the versatility he demonstrated in the outfield will always be remembered as one of the greatest World Series performances in Tigers history. The entire Tigers organization extends their heartfelt condolences to his wife, Patty, his children Kamil, Azaria, Jim, Paige and Kate, and the entire Northrup family."

The Tigers are planning to have a moment of silence in memory of Jim Northrup prior to tonight’s game against the Seattle Mariners at Comerica Park.

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Player Profile: Brennan Boesch

2011-06-06T18:18:00.000-07:00

By Matt Harding
In Play on Facebook

Brennan Boesch has played for the Detroit Tigers since April 23, 2010. Fittingly, Boesch made that debut against the team that the Tigers are playing tonight, the Texas Rangers. In his debut, Boesch had two hits in four at-bats. Since then, Boesch has a .258 batting average accompanied with 19 home runs and 94 RBI.

The stats aren't stellar, but still, they're impressionable and Boesch has become a fan favorite in Detroit. As a matter of fact, in tonight's game, Brennan dressed to impress, going 5 for 6 with two home runs, five RBI, and three runs scored. Boesch's five hits is a career high. His home runs were both to right field and were both hit on 1-0 counts.

Of course, as I mentioned earlier, he's only been in the Motor City for a year now. So, where did Brennan Philip Boesch come from exactly?

Boesch's smooth swing
Photo by Matt Harding / In Play! Magazine

Brennan Boesch was born in Santa Monica, California. He went to Harvard-Westlake High School in Los Angeles where he graduated in 2003, later (2009) being inducted into their Hall of Fame.

From there, the Tigers outfielder went to the University of California, Berkeley to play for the Bears. His bio at U-Cal calls him "a talented left-hander who can hit for both power and average...has developed into a solid outfielder as well."

Boesch was selected by the Tigers in the 3rd round of the 2006 Amateur Draft. He spent 2007 with the Single-A West Michigan White Caps and 2008 with the Lakeland Flying Tigers, another Detroit affiliate. In '09, he played for the Erie SeaWolves (AA) where he led the Eastern League in home runs.

Alex Avila congratulates Boesch after #26 crosses the plate
Photo by Matt Harding / In Play! Magazine

Finally, in 2010, after a starting the season in Toledo with the Mud Hens (Triple-A), Brennan Boesch became a Detroit Tiger. So, tonight, against the same team he played in his debut, Boesch was destined to have a stellar game. And, ironically, after all of tonight's hits to right field, it would only be fitting that his first hit was a double to left field — on the very first pitch he ever saw in the big leauges.

Brennan signs autographs for Detroit fans
Photo by Matt Harding / In Play! Magazine

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TIGERS TONIGHT - WEDNESDAY, JUNE 1, 2011- 7:05 p.m.

2011-06-01T13:12:00.000-07:00

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DETROIT TIGERS (28-26)

RHP Rick Porcello (4-3, 3.93)

vs.

MINNESOTA TWINS (17-36)

RHP Scott Baker (2-3, 3.65)

RECENT RESULTS: The Tigers knocked off the Twins 8-7 last night at Comerica

Park. Al Alburquerque (3-1) picked up the win in relief for Detroit, while Joaquin

Benoit recorded his second save of the season. Jhonny Peralta doubled twice and

drove in two runs, while Victor Martinez collected two doubles and an RBI. The

Tigers conclude a nine-game homestand tonight with the final game of a three game

series versus Minnesota. Following an off day tomorrow, Detroit heads to

Chicago and Texas for a six-game road trip.

EIGHT-GAME WINNING STREAK VERSUS THE TWINS: The Tigers have won

each of the club’s last eight games against the Twins dating back to September 2,

2010. It marks the longest winning streak by the Tigers over the Twins since the

club also posted an eight-game winning streak June 5-August 19, 1981. The last

time the Tigers recorded a winning streak longer than eight games over the club

was a nine-game winning streak when the Twins were the Washington Senators July

27, 1949-May 6, 1950.

WINNING WAYS: Detroit has won 16 of the club’s last 25 games dating back to

May 3, a .640 winning percentage. The Tigers are tops among all American League

clubs with a .640 winning percentage during that stretch.

HAPPY AT HOME: The Tigers have compiled a 119-70 record at Comerica Park

since the start of the 2009 season, a .630 winning percentage. Detroit is second

among all American League clubs with a .630 winning percentage at home during

that stretch, trailing a .656 winning percentage by the New York Yankees.

EXTRA, EXTRA: The Tigers collected five extra-base hits last night versus

Minnesota and have now collected at least one extra-base hit in all 54 games this

season. The 54-game streak to begin the season is the longest streak to begin the

season by a Tigers team since at least 1919. It marks the longest streak to begin a

season by an American League club since Tampa Bay collected an extra-base hit in

77 games to begin the 2007 season. The Tigers are the only team to collect an

extra-base hit in each game this season.

BULLISH BEHAVIOR: Tigers relievers have compiled a 2.59 ERA (31.1IP/9ER) and

33 strikeouts over the club’s last nine games dating back to May 22. During the

nine-game stretch, club relievers have limited opponents to a .200 batting average

(23x115).

COKE SLATED TO START FOR TOLEDO ON FRIDAY NIGHT: Phil Coke is

scheduled to start for Triple A Toledo as part of an injury rehabilitation assignment

on Friday night at Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. Coke has been sidelined since May 24

with a right foot bone bruise.

ORDONEZ TO BEGIN INJURY REHAB ASSIGNMENT: Magglio Ordonez is

scheduled to begin an injury rehabilitation assignment with Triple A Toledo on Friday

night at Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. He has been sidelined since May 11 with right ankle

weakness.

GAME BALL DELIVERY: Tonight’s game ball will be delivered by Sargeant William

Vance of the United States Army from Luna Pier, Michigan. Seargeant Vance has

served for 12 years, including time as the Section Sergeant of Transportation and

has served tours of duty in Iraq and Afghanistan.

TONIGHT’S TIDBITS

• Tonight’s national anthem will be performed

by Lori Adams.

• Tonight’s first pitch will be thrown out by

Tigers fan, Ray Deegan

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TIGERS TONIGHT - TUESDAY, MAY 31, 2011- 7:05 p.m.

2011-05-31T13:05:00.000-07:00

DETROIT TIGERS (27-26)RHP Max Scherzer (6-2, 3.86)
vs.
MINNESOTA TWINS (17-35)
LHP Brian Duensing (2-5, 4.83)

RECENT RESULTS:
The Tigers knocked off the Twins 6-5 yesterday afternoon at Comerica Park. Al Alburquerque (2-1) tossed a scoreless inning of relief to earn the Twin for Detroit, while Jose Valverde registered his 13th save of the season. Miguel Cabrera and Victor Martinez both homered for the Tigers, while Alex Avila added a
run-scoring double. The Tigers continue a nine-game homestand tonight with the second game of a three-game series versus Minnesota. Following an off day on Thursday, Detroit heads to Chicago and Texas for a six-game road trip.

SEVEN-GAME WINNING STREAK VERSUS THE TWINS:
The Tigers have won each of the club’s last seven games against the Twins dating back to September 2, 2010. It marks the longest winning streak by the Tigers over the Twins since the club also posted a seven-game winning streak July 1-September 16, 2007. The last time the Tigers recorded a winning streak longer than seven games over the Twins was an eight-game winning streak June 5-August 19, 1981.

WINNING WAYS:
Detroit has won 15 of the club’s last 24 games dating back to May 3, a .625 winning percentage. The Tigers are second among all American League clubs with a .625 winning percentage during that stretch. The Boston Red Sox have posted a 17-9 record during that stretch, a .654 winning percentage.

HAPPY AT HOME:
The Tigers have compiled a 118-70 record at Comerica Park since the start of the 2009 season, a .628 winning percentage. Detroit is second among all American League clubs with a .628 winning percentage at home during that stretch, trailing a .656 winning percentage by the New York Yankees.

CABRERA SLUGS AGAINST THE TWINS:
Miguel Cabrera enters tonight’s game versus Minnesota hitting .298 (67x225) with 16 doubles, 17 home runs and 49 RBI in 60 games during his career against the club. He is fifth among all active major league players with a .596 slugging percentage against the Twins.

JHONNY ON THE SPOT:
Jhonny Peralta is batting .333 (35x105) with five doubles, a triple, seven home runs and 21 RBI over his last 29 games dating back to April 22. He is fourth in the American League with a .600 slugging percentage during that stretch, while he is eighth with a .333 batting average and tied for eighth with seven home runs.

BULLISH BEHAVIOR:
Tigers relievers have compiled a 2.79 ERA (29.0IP/9ER) and 29 strikeouts over the club’s last eight games dating back to May 22. During the eight-game stretch, club relievers have limited opponents to a .206 batting average (22x107).

GAME BALL DELIVERY:
Tonight’s game ball will be delivered by E4 Specialist William A. Roberts of the United States Army from Delton, Michigan. E4 Specialist Roberts has served in both the United States Navy and Army with service aboard the USS John F. Kennedy in the Persian Gulf, and most recently, a deployment to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

MADE IN DETROIT COLLEGE NIGHT:
For just $19, college students can enjoy “Made In Detroit” College Night, presented by Big Boy and AMP Radio. One low price includes a game ticket in the Pavilion seating area, where college students can meet other students from around the area, and a special limited edition “Made in Detroit” Tigers Player T-Shirt. The featured Player T-Shirt for Tuesday’s game will be Miguel Cabrera.

TONIGHT’S TIDBITS
• Tonight’s national anthem will be performed by L’Anse Creuse Middle School Central Bands.
• Tonight’s first pitch will be thrown out by Miss Wheelchair Michigan, Sharina Jones and a University of Detroit Jesuit

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TIGERS TODAY - MONDAY, MAY 30, 2011- 1:05 p.m.

2011-05-30T09:46:00.000-07:00

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DETROIT TIGERS (26-26)
RHP Brad Penny (4-4, 4.45)
vs.
MINNESOTA TWINS (17-34)
RHP Nick Blackburn (4-4, 3.20)

RECENT RESULTS:
The Tigers split a day-night doubleheader with the Red Sox at Comerica Park yesterday, falling 4-3 during the day game and winning 3-0 during the night game. Jose Valverde (2-2) took the loss for Detroit during the day game,while Justin Verlander (5-3) blanked the Red Sox over 7.2 innings of work to earn the win during the night game. Andy Dirks and Brennan Boesch both connected for a solo home run during the day game, while Miguel Cabrera singled, doubled and drove in a run during the night game. The Tigers continue a nine-game homestand today with the first game of a three-game series versus Minnesota.

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TIGERS VERSUS RED SOX GAME POSTPONED DUE TO RAIN

2011-05-28T18:15:00.000-07:00

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MAKEUP GAME SCHEDULED AS PART OF SPLIT DOUBLEHEADER SUNDAY AT 7:05 P.M.

DETROIT – Tonight’s scheduled game against the Boston Red Sox at Comerica Park has been postponed due to rain and impending rain. The game will be made up Sunday, May 29 as the second game of a split doubleheader, which will begin with the regularly scheduled game at 1:05 p.m. and will be followed by the makeup game for tonight’s contest at 7:05 p.m.

Tickets for tonight’s game will be honored for the second game on Sunday at 7:05 p.m., no ticket exchange is necessary.

As a result of the split doubleheader, Kids Run the Bases has been canceled for this Sunday. Additionally, there will be no fireworks following the 7:05 p.m. game on Sunday.

Fans unable to attend the rescheduled game may exchange their unused tickets at any time for a future regular season game scheduled to be played within 12 months from today’s date; excluding Opening Day and subject to availability.

An additional note, Sunday’s 7:05 p.m. game will not be televised due to the Major League Baseball National Network Windows of Exclusivity, which will not allow local television for game telecasts which begin after 5:05 p.m.

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TIGERS ACQUIRE DAVID PURCEY FROM OAKLAND ATHLETICS IN EXCHANGE FOR SCOTT SIZEMORE

2011-05-27T14:01:00.000-07:00

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DETROIT – The Detroit Tigers today announced the club has acquired lefthanded pitcher David Purcey from the Oakland Athletics in exchange for second baseman Scott Sizemore. Additionally, the Tigers today recalled the contract of infielder Danny Worth from Triple A Toledo.

Purcey appeared in nine games with Oakland this season after he was acquired from the Toronto Blue Jays in a two-player deal on April 18, 2011. He compiled a 2.13 ERA (12.2IP/3ER), fanned seven batters and limited opponents to a .191 batting average (9x47) during his stint with the Athletics.

Selected by Toronto in the first round of the 2004 Major League Baseball First-Year Player Draft, he has posted a 5-10 record, 5.17 ERA (162.0IP/93ER) and 139 strikeouts in 68 appearances (21 starts) at the major league level with Toronto (2008-11) and Oakland (2011).

Sizemore batted .222 (14x63) with a double and four RBI in 17 games with the Tigers this season after having his contract recalled from Toledo on May 3. In 23 games with Toledo this season, he hit .408 (31x76) with seven doubles, a triple, two home runs and 15 RBI.

Worth saw action in 31 games with Toledo this season, hitting .270 (31x115) with nine doubles, a triple, three home runs and eight RBI. He received his first major league action with the Tigers during the 2010 season and he batted .255 (27x106) with five doubles, two home runs and eight RBI in 39 games.

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TIGERS VS. BLUE JAYS GAME ON JUNE 27 MOVED TO 6:05 P.M.

2011-05-26T14:23:00.000-07:00

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DETROIT – The Detroit Tigers game against the Toronto Blue Jays on Monday, June 27 at Comerica Park has been moved to 6:05 p.m.

The City of Detroit Fireworks event is scheduled for the same evening. The game time change was made to accommodate fans to give them the opportunity to attend both the Tigers game and the fireworks show.

Tickets from the May 17 game will still be honored on June 27, no ticket exchange is necessary.

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TIGERS TODAY - THURSDAY, MAY 26, 2011- 1:05 p.m.

2011-05-26T08:07:00.000-07:00

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DETROIT TIGERS (25-23)RHP Max Scherzer (6-1, 2.98)
vs. BOSTON RED SOX (27-22)
RHP Alfredo Aceves (1-0, 2.42)

RECENT RESULTS:
Tigers knocked off the Rays 7-6 on Tuesday night. Al Alburquerque (1-1) picked up
the win in relief, while Joaquin Benoit earned the save. Alex Avila belted two home
runs and collected three RBI. The Tigers continue a nine-game homestand this
afternoon with the first game of a four-game series versus Boston. The homestand
concludes with a three-game series with Minnesota beginning on Monday afternoon.

May 3, a .684 winning percentage. The Tigers are tops among all American League
clubs with a .684 winning percentage during that stretch.

The Tigers and Rays were postponed due to rain yesterday. TheWINNING WAYS: Detroit has won 13 of the club’s last 19 games dating back to
HAPPY AT HOME:
since the start of the 2009 season, a .634 winning percentage. Detroit is second
among all American League clubs with a .634 winning percentage at home during
that stretch, trailing only a .656 winning percentage by the New York Yankees.
The Tigers have compiled a 116-67 record at Comerica Park
PITCHING IN AT HOME:
(144.0IP/47ER) over the last 16 games at home dating back to April 13. The Tigers
are third among American League clubs with a 3.19 ERA (189.0IP/67ER) at home
this season.

Detroit has posted an 11-5 record and 2.94 ERA
JHONNY ON THE SPOT:
a triple, six home runs and 18 RBI over his last 25 games dating back to April 22.
He is sixth among all American League players with a .587 slugging percentage
during that stretch, while he is tied for eighth with six home runs.

Jhonny Peralta is batting .326 (30x92) with four doubles,PITCHING MATTERS IN MAY:
(183.1IP/69ER) in 21 games during May. Detroit is third among American League
DOUBLE TIME:
the club has now recorded 58 doubles in the team’s last 29 games dating back to
April 22. Detroit is fourth among all American League clubs with 58 doubles during
that stretch. The Tigers enter today’s game fourth in the league with 92 doubles this
season.

The Tigers collected one double on Tuesday versus Tampa Bay and
DAYTIME DELIGHT:
13-9 record during day games this season. Detroit is tops among all major league
clubs with 13 wins during the day in 2011.

The Tigers enter this afternoon’s game versus Boston with a
GAME BALL DELIVERY:
Foster of the United States Army National Guard from Chelsea, Michigan. Specialist
Foster is currenly on leave while deployed to Kuwait.

Today’s game ball will be delivered by Specialist Nicholas
TODAY’S TIDBITS
• Today’s national anthem will be performed
by Michael Greene.
• Today’s first pitch will be thrown out by
Brian Rolnitcky from CBS Radio and a 3
Dimensional Services Representative.

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clubs with a .238 batting average against (161x676) during the month, while the
team is fifth with a 3.39 ERA.

The Tigers have compiled a 3.39 ERA

TIGERS VS. RAYS GAME POSTPONED DUE TO RAIN

2011-05-25T13:41:00.000-07:00

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DETROIT – Today’s scheduled game against the Tampa Bay Rays at Comerica Park has been postponed due to rain and impending rain. The game will be made up on Monday, June 13 at 7:05 p.m.

Tickets for today’s game will be honored for the game on June 13, no ticket exchange is necessary.

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TIGERS TODAY - WEDNESDAY, MAY 25, 2011- 1:05 p.m.

2011-05-25T08:18:00.000-07:00

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TIGERS AT A GLANCE
Record: 25-23 / Streak: W3
Game # 49 / Home # 22
Home:13-8 / Road: 12-15
TV/Radio
FSD /AM 1270 & 97.1 FM
TIGERS VS. RAYS
2011 Record: 2-0
2011 at Home: 2-0
2011 at Tampa Bay: 0-0
All-Time Record: 48-50
All-Time at Home: 26-24
All-Time at Comerica Park: 23-19
All-Time at Tampa Bay: 22-26
2011 Game Log
Date Site Result Winner/Loser/Save
5/23 DET W, 6-3 Furbush/Hellickson
5/24 DET W, 7-6 Alburquerque/Ramos/Benoit
5/25 DET
8/22 TB
8/23 TB
8/24 TB
8/25 TB
STREAKS
Last five games: 3-2
Last 10 games: 5-5
Last 15 games: 10-5
Last 20 games: 13-7

DETROIT TIGERS (25-23)
RHP Brad Penny (4-4, 4.45)

vs. TAMPA BAY RAYS (26-23)
RHP Andy Sonnanstine (0-1, 4.21)
RECENT RESULTS:
(1-1) picked up the win in relief, while Joaquin Benoit earned the save. Alex Avila
belted two home runs and collected three RBI. The Tigers continue a 10-game
homestand this afternoon with the final game of a three-game series versus Tampa
Bay. The homestand continues with a four-game series with Boston and a
three-game series with Minnesota.

The Tigers knocked off the Rays 7-6 last night. Al Alburquerque
LOOKING FOR A SWEEP:
three-game series versus Tampa Bay at Comerica Park. With a win today over the
Rays, it would mark the first time ever the Tigers have swept Tampa Bay in Detroit.
The Tigers have won both of the first two games of a
JHONNY ON THE SPOT:
a triple, six home runs and 18 RBI over his last 25 games dating back to April 22.
He is fifth among all American League players with a .587 slugging percentage
during that stretch, while he is tied for seventh with six home runs.

Jhonny Peralta is batting .326 (30x92) with four doubles,AVILA PROVIDING POP FROM EIGHTH SPOT:
home runs from the eighth spot of the Tigers order last night versus Tampa Bay and
all eight of his home runs have come when hitting eighth this season. His eight
home runs mark the most home runs from the lower third of the batting order
(seventh, eighth and ninth spots combined) by any major league player in 2011.
Alex Avila connected for two
(Source: Elias Sports Bureau)
G.R.E.A.T. DAY:
addressed a group of students from the Gang Resistance Education and Training
about the importance of becoming responsible members of the community. Since
1992, the Tigers have dedicated one game a year to G.R.E.A.T. This year, more
than 1,200 students will be on hand to celebrate their achievements in avoiding
destructive behaviors.

Prior to today’s game, Tigers first base coach Tom Brookens
SAFETY PATROL AND AQUAFINA PERFECT ATTENDANCE DAYS:
afternoon’s game marks the last of five days throughout the season where students
who serve on safety patrol and service squads, or have perfect school attendence
receive free tickets to view a Tigers game at Comerica Park. Detroit Public Schools
received 2,000 tickets to distribute and the Archdiocese of Detroit received more
than 2,400 tickets for deserving students. Aquafina will provide a limited number of
drawstring bags for students in attendance.

This
GAME BALL DELIVERY:
Mason, Michigan will deliver the game ball. Specialist Spoor recently returned from
his first deployment to Afghanistan where he was awarded the Combat Action Badge
and the Army Commendation Medal. He has proudly served the United States Army
for three years. Tickets for Specialist Spoor and his guests will be provided by
3-Dimensional Services Group.
Specialist Tyler Spoor of the United States Army from TODAY’S TIDBITS
• Today’s national anthem will be performed
by Amber Grand and the Bloomfield Sign
Choir.
• Today’s first pitch will be thrown out by a
Fantasy Experience Representative.
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TIGERS TONIGHT - TUESDAY, MAY 24, 2011- 7:05 p.m.

2011-05-24T11:17:00.000-07:00

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TIGERS AT A GLANCE
Record: 24-23 / Streak: W2
Game # 48 / Home # 21
Home:12-8 / Road: 12-15
TV/Radio
FSD /AM 1270 & 97.1 FM
TIGERS VS. RAYS
2011 Record: 1-0
2011 at Home: 1-0
2011 at Tampa Bay: 0-0
All-Time Record: 47-50
All-Time at Home: 25-24
All-Time at Comerica Park: 22-19
All-Time at Tampa Bay: 22-26
2011 Game Log
Date Site Result Winner/Loser/Save
5/23 DET W, 6-3 Furbush/Hellickson
5/24 DET
5/25 DET
8/22 TB
8/23 TB
8/24 TB
8/25 TB
STREAKS
Last five games: 2-3
Last 10 games: 5-5
Last 15 games: 9-6
Last 20 games: 12-8
DETROIT TIGERS (24-23)
RHP Justin Verlander (4-3, 2.96)
vs. TAMPA BAY RAYS (26-22)
RHP Wade Davis (4-4, 3.47)

RECENT RESULTS:
Park. Charlie Furbush (1-0) earned the win for Detroit, blanking the Rays in 3.2
innings of work. Andy Dirks belted a solo home run for the Tigers, while Victor
Martinez and Jhonny Peralta both finished with a hit and two RBI. The Tigers
continue a 10-game homestand this evening with the second game of a three-game
series versus Tampa Bay. The homestand continues with a four-game series with
Boston and a three-game series with Minnesota.

The Tigers knocked off the Rays 6-3 last night at Comerica
VICTOR’S ON THE MARK AGAINST THE RAYS:
game versus Tampa Bay hitting .383 (87x227) with 15 doubles, eight home runs
and 43 RBI in 57 games during his career against the club. He is tops among all
active major league players with a .383 batting average against the Rays.

Victor Martinez enters tonight’s
PERALTA PACKS A PUNCH VERSUS TAMPA BAY:
against Tampa Bay batting .321 (70x218) with 11 doubles, two triples, 10 home
runs and 38 RBI in 59 games during his career versus the club. He is seventh
among all active major league players with a .321 batting average versus Tampa
Bay.

Jhonny Peralta enters tonight’s
PITCHING IN AT HOME:
(135.0IP/41ER) over the last 15 games at home dating back to April 13. The Tigers
are third among American League clubs with a 3.05 ERA (180.0IP/61ER) at home
this season.

Detroit has posted a 10-5 record and 2.73 ERA
JHONNY ON THE SPOT:
a triple, six home runs and 18 RBI over his last 24 games dating back to April 22.
He is fifth among all American League players with a .584 slugging percentage during
that stretch, while he is tied for sixth with six home runs.
Jhonny Peralta is batting .326 (29x89) with three doubles,FOR STARTERS:
(247.0IP/76ER) over the last 37 games. Club starters are tied for third in the
American League with 19 wins this season, while they are tied for fourth with 30
quality starts and are fourth with a 3.41 ERA.

Tigers starting pitchers have posted a 16-10 record and 2.77 ERA
GAME BALL DELIVERY:
Zultak of the United States Army from Farmington Hills, Michigan. Captain Zultak
served as a Rifle Platoon Leader while deployed in Iraq and has received the
Valorous Unit Award, the Combat Infantryman Badge, the Expert Infantryman
Badge, Ranger Tab, Senior Parachutist Badge and Canadian Parachutist Badge.

Tonight’s game ball will be delivered by Captain Michael
VERLANDER’S VICTORY FOR VETERANS:
Justin Verlander will host injured Veterans and their families from the John D.
Dingell Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Detroit and the Veterans Affairs Ann
Arbor Healthcare System in his private luxury suite.

During tonight’s game, Tigers pitcher,
TONIGHT’S TIDBITS
• Tonight’s national anthem will be performed
by Lynnae Winnie.
• Tonight’s first pitch will be thrown out by
World Champion Ice Dancers, Meryl
Davis and Charlie White, and a Kid’s Club
Raffle winner.

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Coke Placed on DL, Wilk's Contract Purchased from Toledo

2011-05-24T07:08:00.001-07:00

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The Tigers today announced the club has placed lefthanded pitcher Phil Coke on the 15-day disabled list with a right foot bone bruise. To take Coke's spot on the club's 25-man roster the Tigers are purchasing the contract of lefthanded pitcher Adam Wilk from Triple A Toledo.

Wilk is 3-4 with a 3.86 ERA (49.0IP/21ER) in eight starts with the Mud Hens. He has fanned 32 batters during his eight outings, while issuing only five walks.

To create room on the club's 40-man roster for Wilk, the Tigers today have designated the contract of righthanded pitcher Robbie Weinhardt for assignment.

Additionally, the Tigers will recall lefthanded pitcher Andy Oliver on Saturday to start that evening's game versus the Boston Red Sox.

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Tigers place Thomas on DL; Furbush Recalled from Toledo

2011-05-21T09:45:00.000-07:00

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Saturday, May 21, 2011

The Tigers have placed lefthanded pitcher Brad Thomas on the 15-day disabled list retroactive to May 11 with left elbow inflammation.

To replace Thomas on Detroit’s 25-man roster, the club has today recalled the contract of lefthanded pitcher Charlie Furbush from Triple A Toledo.

Furbush posted a 4-3 record, 2.91 ERA (46.1IP/15ER) and 55 strikeouts in eight starts with the Mud Hens. He departed Toledo leading the International League with 55 strikeouts.

Furbush will wear uniform number 49.

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COMERICA PARK NAMED ONE OF THE MOST VEGETARIAN-FRIENDLY BALLPARKS OF 2011

2011-05-19T12:49:00.000-07:00

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DETROIT – Comerica Park, home of the Detroit Tigers, has grabbed third place in PETA's 10th annual ranking of the Top 10 Vegetarian-Friendly Ballparks. The ballpark's lineup of delicious options this year includes veggie dogs, veggie Italian sausage, black-bean burgers, veggie sushi, vegetable stir-fry, veggie wraps, meatless taco salad, fruit cups, corn on the cob, hummus plates, fresh fruit smoothies, veggie trays and veggie fried rice.

"With flamethrower Justin Verlander on the mound and flame-broiled veggie Italian sausage on the grill, Comerica Park is the place to be this summer," says PETA Associate Director Chris Holbein. "With so many health-friendly vegetarian dishes to choose from, eating smart while cheering on the Tigers has never been easier."

Grabbing first-place honors is the San Francisco Giants' AT&T Park, which offers fans veggie dogs, veggie burgers, portobello mushroom sandwiches, veggie sushi, Asian noodles with vegetables, and meatless burritos. After four straight years of taking top honors, Philadelphia Phillies' Citizens Bank Park, has slipped to an honorable second-place finish this year. Rounding out the top 10 are Turner Field (Atlanta Braves), Coors Field (Colorado Rockies), Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum (Oakland Athletics), PETCO Park (San Diego Padres), Angel Stadium (Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim), Minute Maid Park (Houston Astros), and Miller Park (Milwaukee Brewers).

Each team on the Top 10 Vegetarian-Friendly Ballparks list will receive a framed certificate from PETA.

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TIGERS VS. BLUE JAYS GAME POSTPONED DUE TO RAIN

2011-05-17T18:21:00.001-07:00

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DETROIT – Tonight’s scheduled game against the Toronto Blue Jays at Comerica Park has been postponed due to rain and impending rain. The game will be made up on Monday, June 27 at 7:05 p.m.

Tickets for tonight’s game will be honored for the game on June 27, no ticket exchange is necessary.

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TIGERS TONIGHT - MONDAY, MAY 16, 2011

2011-05-16T16:32:00.000-07:00

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7:05 p.m.
DETROIT TIGERS (22-18)
vs. TORONTO BLUE JAYS (20-20)

RHP Kyle Drabek (2-2, 4.81)
RECENT RESULTS:
Comerica Park was postponed due to rain. The Tigers recorded their 10th victory in
the last 11 games with a 3-0 victory over the Royals on Saturday at Comerica Park.
Brad Penny (4-3) blanked the Royals on five hits over eight innings to earn the victory,
while Jose Valverde worked the ninth for his 10th save. Jhonny Peralta led the
Tigers offense with a pair of hits, including a double, and an RBI, while both Miguel
Cabrera and Victor Martinez added an RBI in the victory. The club continues a fourgame
homestand this evening with the first game of a two-game series against the
Toronto Blue Jays. Following tomorrow night’s game, the club heads to Boston and
Pittsburgh for a five-game road trip.
The Tigers game versus the Royals yesterday afternoon at
SEVEN STRAIGHT, LOOKING FOR EIGHT:
against the Blue Jays with a seven-game winning streak, the longest since also
winning seven straight from June 11-18, 2010. The last club winning streak of more
than seven games was an eight-game streak April 29-May 8, 2007.
The Tigers enter tonight’s game
PUTTING ZEROES ON THE BOARD:
afternoon for the club’s sixth shutout this season, which leads the American League.
The six shutouts are tied for the third-most by a Tigers team through the club’s first
40 games since at least 1919, trailing seven from the 2006 Tigers and eight from
the 1945 Tigers.
The Tigers blanked the Royals on Saturday
PITCHING IN AT HOME:
(117.0IP/35ER) over the last 13 games at home dating back to April 13. Detroit is
second among American League clubs with a 3.06 ERA (162.0IP/55ER) at home this
season.
The Tigers have posted a 9-4 record and 2.69 ERA
ELECTRIC 11-GAME STRETCH:
games, marking the best 11-game streak by a Tigers team since also posting a
10-1 mark April 30-May 12, 2007. The Tigers won 11 of club’s 12 games April 29-
May 12, 2007.
The Tigers have won 10 of the club’s last 11
CANADIAN TIGERS FAN NIGHT:
the Detroit Tigers will once again offer a special Canadian Tigers Fan Night.
Canadian fans can enjoy music from the Chatham Concert Band, play Canadian
baseball trivia and one lucky Canadian fan will be chosen to throw out the first
pitch.
In honor of Tigers fans from north of the border,TWEETUP AND VIEWING PARTY:
game viewing party and TweetUp of the 2011 season on Thursday, May 19 at the
Buffalo Wild Wings in Lake Orion.
The Detroit Tigers will host their first road
MAY MEZZANINE TICKET SPECIAL:
tickets, which are normally $15, for Monday-Thursday home games in May
(excluding Boston).
Tigers fans can purchase $10 Mezzanine
TIGERS VALUE OFFERS AT COMERICA PARK:
•
•
kids prize.
•
•
along Columbia.
•
$5 Single-game tickets available for every Tigers home game.$5 Kids Value Meals every game – includes a hot dog, chips, juice box and a$5 Adult Value Meals every game – includes a hot dog, chips and a soda.$5 Parking available in Lots M, R, P and Q between Cass and Grand River$5 Tigers Magazine every game – includes scorecard, game notes.
TONIGHT’S TIDBITS
• Tonight’s national anthems will be
performed by the Chatham Concert Band.
• Tonight’s first pitch will be thrown out by
representatives from Bank of America and
Canadian fan night.

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BORDER NEIGHBORS CLASH BEGINS MONDAY AS TIGERS HOST TORONTO BLUE JAYS IN TWO-GAME SERIES AT COMERICA PARK

2011-05-15T08:29:00.000-07:00

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DETROIT – The Tigers, winners of seven straight, continue their homestand when they play a two-game series against the Toronto Blue Jays. The Tigers will host the Blue Jays Monday-Tuesday, May 16-17. Both games will begin at 7:05 p.m. (Gates open at 5:30 p.m.)

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May 15 - TIGERS VERSUS ROYALS GAME POSTPONED DUE TO RAIN

2011-05-15T08:11:00.000-07:00

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DETROIT – Today’s scheduled game against the Kansas City Royals at Comerica Park has been postponed due to rain and impending rain. The game will be made up on Thursday, September 1 at 1:05 p.m.

Tickets for today’s game will be honored for the game on September 1, no ticket exchange is necessary. Additionally, the Magglio Ordonez mini bat giveaway scheduled for today will be distributed on September 1.

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TIGERS PLACE MAGGLIO ORDONEZ ON 15-DAY DISABLED LIST

2011-05-13T11:52:00.000-07:00

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Detroit will Purchase the Contract of Andy Dirks from Triple A Toledo

DETROIT – The Detroit Tigers today announced the club has placed outfielder Magglio Ordonez on the 15-day disabled list retroactive to May 11 with right ankle weakness. Additionally, the Tigers will purchase the contract of outfielder Andy Dirks from Triple A Toledo upon his arrival to Detroit to take Ordonez’s spot on the club’s 25-man roster.

Ordonez is hitting .172 (17x99) with three doubles, a home run and five RBI in 26 games with the Tigers this season. He underwent a surgical procedure to stabilize a right ankle fracture on August 25, 2010, a procedure performed by Dr. Phillip Kwong of the Kerlan-Jobe Clinic in Los Angeles. Ordonez will be referred back to Dr. Kwong for further testing and evaluation.

Dirks is batting .328 (43x131) with 25 runs scored, six doubles, a triple, six home runs, 20 RBI and 10 stolen bases in 34 games with Toledo in 2011. He departs Toledo tied for second in the International League with 43 hits, while he is tied for third with 25 runs scored and 10 stolen bases and tied for seventh with a .328 batting average.

Dirks will wear uniform number 12 when his contract is purchased by the Tigers from Toledo following his arrival to Detroit.

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Justin Verlander throws no-hitter

2011-05-07T15:44:00.000-07:00

By Matt Harding

In Play on Facebook

In Saturday's game against Toronto, the second game of a three game series, Justin Verlander threw his second career no hitter. It was one walk away from being a perfect game. His last no-no was at Comerica Park on June 12, 2007 against the Milwaukee Brewers.

He carved up Blue Jays hitters this afternoon, however, he only racked up four strikeouts. In his first no hitter, he had 12 K's.

The Blue Jays' ace, Ricky Romero, only went 3.1 innings. He gave up six runs on five hits. The Tigers, with JV's stellar performance, come away with a 9-0 victory.

Verlander throws second career no hitter

Photo by Matt Harding / In Play! Magazine

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Tigers beat New York Yankees 4-2

2011-05-03T20:49:00.000-07:00

By Matt Harding
In Play on Facebook

In the second game of the series against the Yankees, the Tigers threw Brad Penny, just 1-3 before the contest. Penny went six innings strong, giving up one unearned run on six hits and two walks. He also struck out a batter.

The Yankee's starter and 2009 Cy Young Award winner CC Sabathia went seven innings giving up four earned runs and ten hits.

CC Sabathia couldn't fool the Tigers tonight!
Photo by Matt Harding / In Play! Magazine

The Tigers jumped ahead in the first inning with a pair of hits and a sac fly. Their lead remained 2-0 until the top of the fourth when the Yanks countered with a couple of base hits of their own, cutting the lead to 2-1.

In the fifth inning, after a Brandon Inge walk, Austin Jackson tripled to left field. A Scott Sizemore single brought him around to score.

Jackson hustles to third base
Photo by Matt Harding / In Play! Magazine

New York's Mark Teixeira blasted a solo home run off of Mark Schlereth in the top of the eighth inning. However, that's all the damage that the Yankees would do, losing 4-2. Closer Jose Valverde gets the save while Penny received the W. The Tigers play the Yanks again Wednesday night and Thursday afternoon.

Mark Teixeira blasts a solo shot to left field
Photo by Matt Harding / In Play! Magazine

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'Ernie' world premiere a huge success!

2011-04-28T19:47:00.000-07:00

By Matt Harding
In Play on Facebook

Mitch Albom's play, Ernie, about Tiger legend Ernie Harwell, premiered Thursday evening in front of a packed City Theatre. In attendance was the Illitch family, local television personalities, '84 Tigers Dan Petry and Frank Tanana, amongst others, including Mitch Albom himself.

The City Theatre doorman greets guests with a smile
Photo by Matt Harding / In Play! Magazine

Dan Petry heads into the City Theatre to see 'Ernie'
Photo by Matt Harding / In Play! Magazine

Before the play commenced, Albom took a moment to tell In Play! how he believed fans would respond to the play: "I hope they'll enjoy it. I think if they liked Ernie Harwell coming in, they'll certainly like him going out. We enhance his life and bring it to people on a personal level that they might not know. A lot of people didn't know his own story. And, he's got quite an interesting story."

The play, starring Will Young as Ernie Harwell and Timothy Corbett as the boy, lasted roughly 90 minutes and featured vintage MLB footage including that of Babe Ruth, Jackie Robinson, and Willie Mays.

The play is set during Ernie's last day at Comerica Park. Harwell encounters a boy shortly before he goes out onto the field and gives his final broadcast, telling his life's story in nine innings, starting with his childhood.

Albom was absolutely correct in saying you'd get to know Ernie personally. After leaving the event, one fan told In Play! Magazine, "I feel like I just met Ernie and got to know him...as a person, not just a broadcaster."

Fans left the City Theatre in awe
Photo by Matt Harding / In Play! Magazine

During the play, the audience laughed, cried, and clapped; sometimes, they seemed to be doing all three at the same time. Mitch Albom put together one heck of a play.

And, don't worry if you didn't catch it yet. There are 37 more shows scheduled every Thursday through Sunday (at various times) from now until June 26. But, be sure to remember that the City Theatre is only a 399 seat venue. Buy your tickets now before they're loooooooong gone!

The "Ernie" marquee outside of the City Theatre
Photo by Matt Harding / In Play! Magazine

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'Ernie' actor Will Young talks with In Play!

2011-04-23T17:26:00.000-07:00

By Matt Harding
In Play on Facebook

At the Tiger's game today, the actor who will be portraying Ernie Harwell in Mitch Albom's play, Ernie, threw out the first pitch. Shortly after, he took a moment to speak with In Play! about what it was like to portray Ernie Harwell.

"Frightening, daunting, thrilling," said Will Young, whose look and voice eerily resembles Harwell's. He went on to say, "What we're trying to do is just represent him and not mimic him at all."

Young went on to say he hopes people come out to see the play. The play premieres at the City Theatre on Thursday, April 28 and is scheduled to continue through June 26.

Photo above by Matt Harding / In Play! Magazine

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TIGERS ANNOUNCE TRYOUT CAMP ON JUNE 14

2011-04-19T06:25:00.000-07:00

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DETROIT – The Detroit Tigers today announced a tryout camp to be held at Fifth Third Ballpark, the home of the West Michigan Whitecaps, on Tuesday, June 14.

Registration for the camp begins at 8:00 a.m., with the workout starting at 9:00 a.m. The tryout camp is for players age 16-23, or those players with previous professional baseball experience. No pre-registration or participation fee is necessary to attend the camp. Those interested in trying out must provide their own glove and work out equipment. Wood bats, helmets and baseballs will be provided by the Tigers.

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Tigers win in extra innings giving Leyland 1,500th career win

2011-04-16T06:40:00.000-07:00

By Matt Harding
In Play on Facebook

In the Tigers 8-4 victory against the Oakland Athletics last night, Jim Leyland became just the 19th manager in history to win 1,500 games. Leyland ranks second among active managers; the Tiger's skipper trails his former colleague Tony La Russa (1982-85 with Chicago White Sox) by 1,145 wins. La Russa ranks third on the all-time list.

Leyland gets 1,500th managerial win
Photo by Matt Harding / In Play! Magazine

It's not every night that you get an 8-4 score in extra innings. This, however, wasn't your typical baseball game. The Tigers trailed 1-0 in the top of the ninth. Miguel Cabrera's solo home run to the opposite field would tie the game and send it into extra innings.

Then the run scoring began. In the top of the tenth, Brennan Boesch knocked in two runners, putting the Tigs up 3-1. Then, with a Victor Martinez single and Casper Wells reaching on a throwing error, the Tigers, who (remember) hadn't scored a run until the ninth, found themselves leading 6-1.

After an RBI ground ball by Brandon Inge and an Alex Avila (who led off the inning reaching on a fielding error) single, the Tigers exited the inning leading 8-1.

The A's wouldn't leave without a fight though! They scored three runs against Brayan Villarreal, who received the win, but ran out of gas with Joaquin Benoit on the mound.

Benoit shut the door and held off the A's tenth inning surge
Photo by Matt Harding / In Play! Magazine

The Tigers finish up their four-game series in Oakland with tonight's game at 9:05 p.m. (local time) and Sunday's game at 4:05 p.m.

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STATEMENT FROM THE TIGERS ON THE PASSING OF RENO BERTOIA

2011-04-15T14:04:00.000-07:00

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Attributable to Al Kaline, Special Assistant to the President of the Detroit Tigers:

"Reno was a special person, and one of the nicest people to be around," said Kaline. "Reno and I were close friends, and roommates when we broke into the big leagues our first couple of years. Even after he was traded, we remained friends through the years. I'll miss him, and my condolences go out to his family."

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Tigers win 5-2 on Opening Day at Comerica!

2011-04-08T16:15:00.000-07:00

By Matt Harding
In Play on Facebook

There's no party like an Opening Day party in Detroit! And, despite early rain, the game went on as scheduled with no delays. In fact, the drizzle seemed to stop right in time for the opening pitch.

Even with the sprinkles, the pregame ceremonies continued. The team raised the #11 Sparky Anderson flag which will wave all season long. The visiting Kansas City Royals lineup was announced followed by that of the Tigers. The national anthem was performed by the winners of NBC's "The Sing Off." A military flyover also went on as scheduled. The flyover showcased A-10 Aircraft from the 107th Fighter Squadron, 127th Wing, Michigan Air National Guard. There was only one thing left to do: "Play ball!"

Sparky's flag flies at Comerica Park
Photo by Matt Harding / In Play! Magazine

The Detroit Tigers are introduced to the fans
Photo by Matt Harding / In Play! Magazine

The military flyover
Photo by Matt Harding / In Play! Magazine

The field was meticulously groomed in preparation for this game and looked stunning. The grounds-crew deserves a standing ovation for the way the field turned out, despite the rain.

44,799 fans pack Comerica Park
Photo by Matt Harding / In Play! Magazine

Now, let's get to the action! Max Scherzer wasn't stellar by any means today, but got the job done. He pitch six innings giving up seven hits and only one earned run. Scherzer also walked two and struck out three. Valverde came up with the save.

As for the offense, there were no shades of Carlos Pena or Dmitri Young this year. Actually, no home runs were hit on either side. However, in the first inning Victor Martinez drove in three runs (Rhymes, Ordonez, Cabrera) with a double to right-center field. A double to left field by Jhonny Peralta would soon score Martinez.

After leading 4-0 coming out of the first inning, things were looking very bright for the Tigers -- despite the overcast skies. In the top of the third, however, the KC Royals would score a run on a Melky Cabrera triple. The Tigers pounced back in the bottom half of that inning with a sacrifice fly.

Trailing 5-1 going into the 7th inning, the Royals managed to manufacture a run with three straight singles. That would prove to be the last run of the game. Final score: 5-2, Tigers.

And, in spite of the crowds and drunkenness and mostly gloomy afternoon, every fan in the ballpark was happy to see a win for the Tigers. Nothing beats a win on Opening Day. Well, aside from World Series wins.

Two fans stop to say "hey" to In Play!
Photo by Matt Harding / In Play! Magazine

Check out more photos from Opening Day here.

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Opening Day Lineup

2011-04-08T08:46:00.000-07:00

By Matt Harding
In Play on Facebook

Austin Jackson (CF)
Will Rhymes (2B)
Magglio Ordonez (RF)
Miguel Cabrera (1B)
Victor Martinez (DH)
Brennan Boesch (LF)
Jhonny Peralta (SS)
Alex Avila (C)
Brandon Inge (3B)

Max Scherzer (P)

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Scherzer vs. Davies on Opening Day

2011-04-07T18:51:00.000-07:00

By Matt Harding
In Play on Facebook

The Tigers are headed home! Tomorrow, April 8, marks Opening Day at Comerica Park...an annual holiday in the Motor City. Max Scherzer will be facing Kyle Davies and the Kansas City Royals. Scherzer is 1-0, but didn't really fare too well in his first start of the year. During his five innings he gave up nine hits and six earned runs.

Scherzer looking for the home opener victory
Photo by Matt Harding / In Play! Magazine

The ballclub is 2-4 heading into the game tomorrow after tonight's loss at Baltimore. Hopefully, being at home will boost team morale; because, aside from the second game in this series, the Tigers have looked woeful thus far.

The game will broadcast on Fox 2 Detroit and FS-Detroit. Gates at the ballpark open at 12 p.m. and the game will commence at 3:05 p.m. Hope to see you there!

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2011-04-07T10:27:00.001-07:00

By Denny McLain
In Play on Facebook

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Tigers take second game of Baltimore series

2011-04-06T17:59:00.000-07:00

By Matt Harding
In Play on Facebook

Going into tonight's game, the Tiger's were 1-3 and at the bottom of the AL Central. With Justin Verlander on the mound, however, the team seemed to be in good hands.

Verlander retired the first ten batters he faced. And, aside from a 2-run home run by Derrek Lee in the 4th inning, JV was putting on quite the show. Also, with Alex Avila leading the offense with four RBI, there was no way the Tigers would relinquish their lead.

Verlander thinking about his 2011 season perhaps?
Photo by Matt Harding / In Play! Magazine

That lead shifted a few times but settled to 6-3 after the 7th inning. It would change quickly though. Avila knocked in yet another run in the top of the eighth, giving him five RBI for the game. Then, he simply outdid himself by stealing second base.

It was the 'Alex Avila Show' at Camden Yards tonight
Photo by Matt Harding / In Play! Magazine

With two outs in the top of the ninth, Cabrera blasted a one-hopper to third baseman Mark Reynolds. The ball nearly went through Reynolds's glove; he couldn't recover and Miggy was safe at first base. Rest assured Orioles fans, after a Victor Martinez double, Ryan Raburn was retired and perhaps a certain third baseman's glove as well.

Verlander went eight innings strong giving up only four hits and giving way to Joaquin Benoit. The new addition to the Tiger's pen hadn't given up but one hit in two innings before he entered the game.

The addition of Benoit will be a huge help for the pen this season
Photo by Matt Harding / In Play! Magazine

He didn't plan on giving up a hit and he didn't, getting Matt Wieters to end the game--final score: 7-3. The Tigers finish the series in Baltimore tomorrow before coming back for their home opener on Friday. Stay tuned for an Opening Day preview!

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TIGERS OPENING DAY HAS ARRIVED!

2011-04-06T06:49:00.000-07:00

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FESTIVITIES FEATURE SPARKY ANDERSON FLAG RAISING,
VOCAL GROUP COMMITTED, MEMBERS OF THE MILITARY
AND VERY SPECIAL GUESTS
TIGERS HOME OPENER FRIDAY AT

COMERICA PARK AT 3:05 P.M.

DETROIT – The Detroit Tigers begin their 12th season at Comerica Park and their 111th in Detroit this Friday at 3:05 p.m. as the Tigers host the Kansas City Royals. Gates open at 12:30 p.m.

Opening Day will feature:
· Sparky Anderson Flag Raising
· On-field introduction of the Royals and Tigers
· The national anthem performed by Committed
· Moment of silence recognizing the passing of Bill Lajoie, Steve Boros, Cecil Kaiser, Woodie Fryman and those who lost their lives in the recent earthquake and tsunami in Japan
· A military flyover showcasing A-10 Aircraft from the 107^th Fighter Squadron, 127^th Wing, Michigan Air National Guard
· Master Sergeant Michael Lionberger of the United States Air Force will deliver the game ball prior to the start of the game
· During the seventh inning stretch, Scott Stapp, lead vocalist of rock band Creed, will perform “God Bless America”

OPENING DAY – PREGAME TIMETABLE

12:30:00 Gates open to Comerica Park
12:30:00 Detroit Tigers Batting Practice
1:20:00 Kansas City Royals Batting Practice
2:10:00 Grounds Crew
2:23:00 Public Address Start
2:23:30 Pre-Game Reads and Reminders
2:35:00 Sparky Anderson Flag Raising / Announcement of Number Retirement Ceremony
2:41:00 Introduction of Kansas City Royals
2:46:00 Introduction of Detroit Tigers
2:51:00 Honor Guard Introduction
2:53:00 National Anthem
2:55:00 Military Flyover
* A-10 Aircraft from the 107th Fighter Squadron, 127th Wing, Michigan Air National Guard
2:57:00 Ceremonial First Pitch
3:00:00 Umpire Introductions
3:01:00 Game Ball Delivery
3:02:00 Crowd Energy Video
3:03:00 Tigers Take the Field
3:05:00 Game Begins
7^th Inning Stretch “God Bless America” to be performed by Scott Stapp

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Detroit starts off the season with 0-2 record

2011-04-02T15:08:00.000-07:00

By Matt Harding
In Play on Facebook

The Major League Baseball season is underway and the Detroit Tigers have completed two games in a three game set against the New York Yankees.

In the first game of the series, pitcher Justin Verlander pitched six innings strong, giving up three earned runs on the same number of hits. He gave way to Phil Coke who gave up just a single hit. However, that single hit was a home run.

Brandon Inge was the only Tiger who got more than one hit; he, along with Jhonny Peralta and Miguel Cabrera were the Tigers who drove in the team's only three runs.

For the Yankees, former Tiger Curtis Granderson and first baseman Mark Teixeira hit home runs. Teixeira's home run was a three-run shot. Derek Jeter and Nick Swisher knocked in the other two runs. With a final score of 6-3, closer Mariano Rivera notched his 560th save, 41 short of Trevor Hoffman's all-time 601 saves.

The second game didn't fare to well either for the Tigers.

Cabrera entered today's game hitting safely in 23 of his 24 games against the Yankees. He continued to do well against the Yanks today, with a walk and a double. His luck against the Bronx Bombers didn't result in much for the Tigers. They lost by a score of 10-6 with 'Mo' Rivera acquiring another save, putting him at an even 40 short of tying the all-time record.

The teams wrap up their series tomorrow at 1:05 p.m. with Max Scherzer on the hill for your hometown Detroit Tigers.

Injury Update:
Carlos Guillen (left knee, 15-day DL) & Joel Zumaya (right elbow, 15-day DL)

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Tigers make roster moves

2011-03-30T18:29:00.000-07:00

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The Tigers today purchased the contract of RHP Enrique Gonzalez from Triple A Toledo. To create room on the 40-man roster, the Tigers today outrighted the contract of INF Audy Ciriaco to Double A Erie.

Additionally, the club placed INF Carlos Guillen and RHP Joel Zumaya on the 15-day DL effective today.

Guillen has been placed on DL with left knee microfracture surgery and Zumaya has been placed on the DL with right elbow olecranon fracture surgery.

The club's roster is attached.

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Guillen's injury will keep him from starting by Opening Day

2011-03-25T18:40:00.001-07:00

By Matt Harding
In Play on Facebook

Carlos Guillen underwent microfracture surgery on his left knee last fall and is still recovering. The original timetable gave Guillen until mid-March. With that date come and gone, Carlos may be out of action until the end of April.

The shortstop turned second baseman had gotten to the running stage of his rehab process when he started to feel discomfort in the back of his knee. That was almost two weeks ago. Now, Guillen hopes to start running once again next week.

With Guillen's absence, Will Rhymes will take the reigns as the team's starting second baseman. Rhymes hit .304 with 19 RBI in 54 games for the Tigers last season.

It's Rhymes' time!
Photo by Matt Harding / In Play! Magazine

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Zumaya's injury woes may be more serious than originally thought

2011-03-07T17:34:00.000-08:00

By Matt Harding
In Play on Facebook

In a blog posted four days ago, In Play! informed you about the 'Curse of Joel Zumaya.' Well, that day-to-day injury could be something more.

The flamethrower was anticipating to be out for only a few days after scar tissue broke loose from his surgically repaired elbow during his first spring training game last weekend. While inflammation has improved substantially, head athletic trainer Kevin Rand said Saturday that it hasn't disappeared and Zumaya won't pitch until it does.

Zumaya will seek a second opinion on that soreness, according to pitching coach Rick Knapp.

Will Zumaya's injuries ever cease?
Photo by Matt Harding / In Play! Magazine

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The Curse of Joel Zumaya; Tiger's slinger injured again

2011-03-03T09:54:00.000-08:00

By Matt Harding
In Play on Facebook

Reliever Joel Zumaya is injured yet again. This time, however, the injury is not serious. Zumaya is day-to-day after scar tissue broke apart around his elbow.

"Zoom-Zoom" said the injury occurred in the middle of his inning of work against the Blue Jays on Sunday. He felt the tissue snap on a pitch, reported Jason Beck, the Tiger's blogger for MLB Network.

Zumaya said, "Just a little scar tissue. They're just going to give me a couple days." The bullpen pitcher has been on the disabled list in each of the last four seasons and this injury will not be taken lightly by Manager Jim Leyland. The skipper's attitude shows his lack of confidence in Zumaya.

"I don't think this is uncommon," Leyland said, "but who knows?"

With any luck, Zumaya will be healthy this entire season.
Photo by Matt Harding / In Play! Magazine

Could Zumaya's injuries be caused by harmful ink?
Photo by Matt Harding / In Play! Magazine

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Detroit Tigers Miguel Cabrera Press Conference Feb 24, 2011

2011-02-25T09:05:00.000-08:00

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Audio from Lakeland Florida Tigers press conference held February 24, 2011.

Cabreara talks about his recent arrest in Florida and how he plans to move forward.

In a lighthearted moment a reporter asks Cabrera why he was driving a 2005 vehicle.

In the this third segment Tigers GM Dave Dombrowski talks about Cabrera from managment's point of view.

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Tigers Now Have 31 of 40 Man Roster Under Contract for 2011

2011-02-21T12:53:00.000-08:00

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TIGERS AGREE TO TERMS WITH SIX PLAYERS

DETROIT – The Detroit Tigers today announced the club has agreed to terms with the following six players on contracts for the 2011 season: righthanded pitcher Robbie Weinhardt, lefthanded pitchers Andy Oliver, Daniel Schlereth and Brad Thomas and infielders Cale Iorg and Will Rhymes.

With six players agreeing to terms today, the Tigers now have 31 players on the club’s 40-man roster under contract for the 2011 season.

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Miguel Cabrera charged with DUI

2011-02-17T13:12:00.001-08:00

By Matt Harding
In Play on Facebook

Miguel Cabrera was arrested in St. Lucie County, Florida and charged with DUI and resisting arrest without violence. The St. Lucie County deputy who made contact with Cabrera saw him sitting in a 2005 Land Rover on the side of the road with smoke coming out of the engine compartment.

The deputy said he "detected a strong odor of an alcoholic beverage coming from his breath when he spoke, his eyes were bloodshot and watery, and his speech was accented and heavily slurred." He also saw Cabrera take a drink out of a bottle of James Buchanan Scotch.

Miguel, when asked for his identification, provided a passport and proceeded to get out of his vehicle. The deputy asked him multiple times to get out of the road and to put his hands behind his back. When he wouldn't, another deputy responded and tried to get Cabrera in the vehicle.

Cabrera said, according to the report, "Do you know who I am? You don't know anything about my problems."

Do to his lack of compliance, the slugger was handcuffed. Cabrera continued to be a nuisance and refused to get in the back of the police car; he pushed off of the car into one of the deputies, shouting expletives. By this point, according to the report, the deputy "delivered 3-4 knee spikes into his left thigh muscle and the defendant fell onto the vehicle."

Miguel was released Thursday morning at 7:40 a.m. ET. on $1,350 bond. This incident hasn't been Cabby's first brush with the law. During the 2009 season, he was jailed after his wife called the police. The two were arguing and Cabrera had been intoxicated. After the incident, he sought counseling for what he called "an alcohol problem."

Manager Jim Leyland had no comment about the incident today at camp. Cabrera's toothy mugshot can be found here.

Cabrera's DUI in Florida isn't his first brush with the law
Photo by Matt Harding / In Play! Magazine

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Ernie Harwell play to open April 28

2011-02-17T12:45:00.000-08:00

By Matt Harding
In Play on Facebook

Mitch Albom's play, "Ernie", is scheduled to open Thursday, April 28 at the City Theatre in Detroit. The City Theatre is just a block away from the Detroit Tiger's home of Comerica Park.

According to Albom's website, the play begins on Harwell's last night at the ballpark, just before he was getting ready to head out on to the field to give his heartfelt goodbye. Just before he walks onto the field, he meets a boy who is eager to know all about him. Harwell then gives his final broadcast the "broadcast of his life."

Starring in the play will be Will Young, who plays Ernie Harwell and TJ Corbett, who'll be playing the boy. Director Tony Caselli will be headlining this project.

The show is sure to be a hit with all audiences, especially baseball fans. Tickets for the show ($20 and $25) go on sale Saturday, Feb. 19 at 10:00 a.m. You can purchase tickets online at OlympiaEntertainment.com, the Fox Theatre and Joe Louis Arena box offices, Hockeytown Authentics in Troy, all Ticketmaster locations, Ticketmaster.com, and also at the City Theatre box office, located inside Hockeytown Cafe.

Albom talks about "Ernie" at Tigerfest
Photo by Matt Harding / In Play! Magazine

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TIGERS ISSUE STATEMENT ON THE PASSING OF CECIL KAISER

2011-02-14T13:08:00.000-08:00

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Photo courtesy of the Detroit Tigers

"Cecil was a great friend to the Detroit Tigers, and was truly a pioneer to the game of baseball. The Tigers are grateful of Cecil's participation in our annual Negro Leagues tribute games. Most notably Cecil participated in the annual Honorary Passing of the Bat Ceremony, and was the Tigers top draft selection in Major League Baseball's Negro Leagues Player Draft tribute in 2008. Cecil's warm smile and presence will be missed. We offer our heartfelt condolences to the Kaiser family."

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Phil Coke ready for starting role

2011-02-10T19:14:00.001-08:00

By Matt Harding
In Play on Facebook

Phil Coke has been reveling the opportunity to be a starting pitcher again. His chance has finally arrived, but, can he perform? It's a big change and an even bigger responsibility for Coke.

Coke is not a complete stranger to the starting rotation. He started a total of 77 games in six minor league seasons. The New York Yankees, Coke's first team, placed him in the bullpen; there, he excelled. He's been quite the inning eater over the last two seasons, with the Yankees and Tigers, respectively. He made 72 appearances in 2009 and 74 in 2010.

How does Coke himself think he'll do?

"Usually," Coke said, "when the pressure is highest, I tend to perform the best. When it's a relaxed situation, that's when it's usually tougher."

Fans, and the team, will just have to wait until Spring Training to see just what he can do.

From relief to rotation, how will Coke perform in 2011?
Photo by Matt Harding / In Play! Magazine

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TIGERS ACQUIRE KEVIN EICHHORN AND RYAN ROBOWSKI FROM ARIZONA DIAMONDBACKS IN EXCHANGE FOR ARMANDO GALARRAGA

2011-01-24T14:44:00.001-08:00

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DETROIT – The Detroit Tigers today announced the club has acquired righthanded pitcher Kevin Eichhorn and lefthanded pitcher Ryan Robowski from the Arizona Diamondbacks in exchange for righthanded pitcher Armando Galarraga.

Eichhorn started 13 games with Rookie level Missoula in the Pioneer League during the 2010 season, posting a 5-5 record, 4.94 ERA (74.2IP/41ER) and 71 strikeouts. He finished fourth among all Pioneer League starting pitchers with 12.37 baserunners per nine innings, while he was fifth with 1.81 walks per nine innings. Additionally, Eichhorn started one game with Single A Yakima in 2010, taking the loss after allowing three runs and fanning five batters in six innings of work.

A third-round selection by Arizona in the 2008 Major League Baseball First-Year Player Draft out of Aptos High School in California, Eichhorn has compiled a 5-8 record, 4.80 ERA (105.0IP/56ER) and 108 strikeouts in 27 outings (15 starts) during his professional career. His father Mark pitched for 11 seasons at the major league level with Toronto (1982, 1986-88, 1992-93), Atlanta (1989), California (1990-92, 1996) and Baltimore (1994).

Robowski appeared in 35 games with Single A Visalia during the 2010 season, posting a 2-4 record, 5.17 ERA (54.0IP/31ER), two saves and 51 strikeouts.

Selected by Arizona in the 16th round of the 2009 Major League Baseball First-Year Draft out of Ohio Dominican University, Robowski has compiled a 5-7 record, 4.82 ERA (84.0IP/45ER), eight saves and 74 strikeouts in 56 appearances during his two seasons of professional baseball.

Galarraga finished 4-9 with a 4.49 ERA (144.1IP/72ER) in 25 games (24 starts) for the Tigers during the 2010 season. He posted a 4-2 record and 3.65 ERA (44.1IP/18ER) in eight outings (seven starts) with Triple A Toledo this past season.

In three seasons with the Tigers, Galarraga compiled a 23-26 record and 4.55 ERA (466.2IP/236ER) in 84 games (77 starts).

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Detroit gets ready for baseball season at TigerFest 2011

2011-01-22T17:40:00.000-08:00

By Matt Harding
In Play on Facebook

Arctic-like temperatures in January aren't uncommon in Detroit. Even with the frigid temps, Tiger fans at TigerFest weren't to be deterred! Fans came out in droves, arriving hours before the gates opened. Thousands of fans went into the ballpark, getting to meet the players, get autographs, and even got the chance to participate in player Q&A sessions.

Fans wait outside of Comerica Park
Photo by Matt Harding / In Play! Magazine

Players who signed autographs include virtually every Tiger on the 25-man roster, as well as many Spring Training invites, who will most likely end up in either Triple-A or Double-A. All of the coaches, including manager Jim Leyland, were also there throughout the day. The big no show at this year's TigerFest was Miguel Cabrera, who was scheduled to appear. Ryan Raburn was also not present at the event.

The biggest offseason acquisition, however, did show up. Catcher Victor Martinez signed autographs for fans in a rather chilly tent and took questions from fans later on in the day.

Victor Martinez happily signed for fans
Matt Harding / In Play! Magazine

And, let's not forget about ace Justin Verlander! He took pictures with fans in the visitor's clubhouse at approximately 11 a.m. and participated in all of the fan-interactive events.

Verlander poses with happy Tiger fans
Matt Harding / In Play! Magazine

All of the events were fan favorites at TigerFest. It seemed as if every single person was having a terrific time! Detroit fans are unified when they say they're ready for baseball at Comerica Park. The Tigers open the 2011 season in New York against the Yankees. The matchup? Justin Verlander vs. C.C. Sabathia.

More pictures of the event are posted here.

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Tigers plan on retiring Sparky Anderson's jersey number

2011-01-22T17:14:00.000-08:00

By Matt Harding
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The Detroit Tigers announced at TigerFest on Saturday that they'd be retiring the #11 jersey of the late Hall of Fame manager George "Sparky" Anderson.

GM David Dombrowski made the announcement live on 97.1 FM Detroit at TigerFest. He later spoke with the media about the announcement. In Play! was there as Dombrowski made comments as to why Sparky's number wasn't retired sooner.

Dombrowski said, "I know, in a way, it's a shame. It's the same thing when I see someone go into the Hall of Fame. 'Dang, I wish they went in when they were alive."

The Tigers also announced that they'll honor Anderson with a flag which they'll fly all season, much like they did for Ernie Harwell. Starting in Spring Training, the team will wear a patch with the late skipper's name and number.

Anderson was 1,331-1,248 during 17 seasons with the Tigers. He leads the franchise in wins as well as games managed.

A picture of Sparky Anderson hangs outside
of the clubhouse entrance at TigerFest 2011
Photo by Matt Harding / In Play! Magazine

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TIGERS AGREE TO TERMS ON ONE-YEAR DEAL WITH BRAD PENNY

2011-01-18T12:05:00.000-08:00

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Armando Galarraga’s Contract Designated for Assignment by the Tigers

DETROIT – The Detroit Tigers today announced the club has agreed to terms on a one-year contract with righthanded pitcher Brad Penny.

Penny finished 3-4 with a 3.23 ERA (55.2IP/20ER) in nine starts with the St. Louis Cardinals during the 2010 season before he landed on the disabled list for the remainder of the season on May 22 with a latissimus dorsi muscle injury.

“We are pleased to announce the signing of Brad Penny,” Tigers President, Chief Executive Officer and General Manager David Dombrowski said. “He’s a proven major league starter that we feel strengthens our rotation.”

A veteran of 11 seasons at the major league level with the Florida Marlins (2000-04), Los Angeles Dodgers (2004-08), Boston Red Sox (2009), San Francisco Giants (2009) and Cardinals (2010), Penny has compiled a 108-88 record, 4.11 ERA (1689.1IP/772ER) in 288 outings (284 starts) during his career.

Penny was selected to the National League’s all-star squad in both 2006 and 2007, drawing the starting assignment at PNC Park in Pittsburgh in 2006. He helped lead the Marlins to the World Series championship in 2003, finishing 2-0 with a 2.19 ERA (12.1IP/3ER) in two starts during the World Series against the New York Yankees.

In a related roster move, the Tigers today have designated the contract of righthanded pitcher Armando Galarraga for assignment.

Galarraga finished 4-9 with a 4.49 ERA (144.1IP/72ER) in 25 games (24 starts) for the Tigers during the 2010 season. He posted a 4-2 record and 3.65 ERA (44.1IP/18ER) in eight outings (seven starts) with Triple A Toledo this past season.

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TIGERS AGREE TO TERMS ON ONE-YEAR DEAL WITH ARMANDO GALARRAGA

2011-01-18T06:33:00.000-08:00

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DETROIT – The Detroit Tigers today announced the club has agreed to terms on a one-year contract with righthanded pitcher Armando Galarraga, thus avoiding arbitration.

Galarraga finished 4-9 with a 4.49 ERA (144.1IP/72ER) in 25 games (24 starts) for the Tigers during the 2010 season. He posted a 4-2 record and 3.65 ERA (44.1IP/18ER) in eight outings (seven starts) with Triple A Toledo this past season.

In three seasons with the Tigers, Galarraga has compiled a 23-26 record and 4.55 ERA (466.2IP/236ER) in 84 games (77 starts).

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TIGERS AGREE TO TERMS ON ONE-YEAR DEAL WITH JOEL ZUMAYA

2011-01-14T17:29:00.000-08:00

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DETROIT – The Detroit Tigers today announced the club has agreed to terms on a one-year contract with righthanded pitcher Joel Zumaya, thus avoiding arbitration.

Zumaya appeared in 31 games for the Tigers during the 2010 season, posting a 2-1 record, 2.58 ERA (38.1IP/11ER) and 34 strikeouts before landing on the disabled list for remainder of the season on June 29 with a non-displaced fracture of the olecranon.

In five seasons at the major league level with the Tigers, Zumaya has compiled a 13-12 record, 3.05 ERA (209.2IP/71ER) and 210 strikeouts in 171 appearances. He has limited opponents to a .218 batting average (169x777) during his major league career.

Zumaya has fanned 9.01 batters per nine innings throughout his career with the Tigers, the highest strikeout rate among all club relievers with at least 100 appearances since the start of the 1953 season.

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TIGERS AGREE TO TERMS ON TWO-YEAR DEAL WITH RYAN RABURN

2011-01-12T15:15:00.001-08:00

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DETROIT – The Detroit Tigers today announced the club has agreed to terms on a two-year contract with outfielder Ryan Raburn, thus avoiding arbitration.

Raburn batted .280 (104x371) with 54 runs scored, 25 doubles, a triple, 15 home runs and 62 RBI in 113 games with the Tigers in 2010. He established career highs with 54 runs scored, 104 hits, 25 doubles and 62 RBI during the season. In 70 games following the all-star break, Raburn hit .315 (79x251) with 13 home runs and 46 RBI.

In 226 games with the Tigers over the last two seasons, Raburn has combined to hit .285 (180x632) with 98 runs scored, 36 doubles, three triples, 31 home runs and 107 RBI.

Raburn is batting .274 (269x981) with 156 runs scored, 59 doubles, six triples, 39 home runs and 155 RBI in 379 games in five seasons at the major league level with the Tigers (2004, 2007-10).

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Tigers acquire starting pitcher

2011-01-11T12:42:00.000-08:00

By Matt Harding
In Play on Facebook

The Detroit Tigers have signed 32 year old Brad Penny to a one-year deal worth $3 million plus $3 million more in incentives.

The deal, pending a physical, is set in stone. Penny has been with five other teams during his career; he's played four and a half seasons each with both the Florida Marlins and Los Angeles Dodgers. The deal solidifies the Detroit Tiger's starting rotation. Signing Penny leaves little to no chance that the club will resign pitcher Jeremy Bonderman, who was a rookie for the Tigers in 2003. Freddy Garcia, another pitcher the Tigers showed interest in, will now be desperately trying to find a new team for 2011.

Last year, Penny, in an injury-shortened season, went 3-4 with a 3.23 ERA with the St. Louis Cardinals.

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A look at the new Tigers in town

2011-01-09T15:49:00.000-08:00

By Matt Harding
In Play on Facebook

This coming 2011 season, there is sure to be a number of great catches, home runs, and strikeouts. But, by whom, is the question. Here's a list of a few new players, some of which may or may not be on the 25-man roster, who could be able to help propel the Tigers to the playoffs.

Joaquin Benoit: Benoit, who won This Week in Baseball's 'Setup Man of the Year' Award, is setting up to be a key player in the Tigers organization this season. While last season was the best of his career, before that, Benoit was no slouch. Since 2005, he has had averaged 53 games per year and, during those same years, won 16 games while losing 13.

Joaquin jokes about his accent at TigerFest
Photo by Matt Harding / In Play! Magazine

Victor Martinez: The catcher, formerly of the Cleveland Indians and Boston Red Sox, has been the biggest acquisition this offseason. Martinez is a hard hitting catcher; his career batting average is exactly .300. He also has some 'pop' in his bat, hitting 25 home runs in 2007 and 20 last season. And, while Martinez has played first base in the past, he'll be a full time catcher with the Tigers. Though not a gold glove catcher, Victor is no slouch behind the dish. Last season, he had a .993 fielding percentage.

Victor Martinez gets a Detroit welcome
Photo by Matt Harding / In Play! Magazine

Jacob Turner: While this 19-year-old likely won't be on this year's team, with another great year in the minors, he definitely has the ability to be one of the clubs' September call-ups. He was an all-star last season, playing with the Single-A West Michigan Whitecaps. And, at 6'5" and 210 pounds, Turner is proof that the Tigers continuously look for hard-throwing talent.

Ryan Strieby: Another player who inevitably won't make the 25-man cut is first baseman Ryan Strieby. The Seattle native only hit .245 last year with the Toledo Mud Hens (AAA). In 2009, he hit .303 with the Erie SeaWolves. With a few years of seasoning, there's no doubt that this talent can find his way to the majors. But, being an up and coming first baseman in Detroit is no easy business. Strieby will have to find a new position if he wants to see Comerica Park anytime soon.

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DETROIT TIGERS ISSUE STATEMENT ON THE PASSING OF STEVE BOROS

2010-12-30T16:07:00.001-08:00

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DETROIT – The following is a club statement on the passing of Steve Boros attributable to David Dombrowski, Detroit Tigers President, Chief Executive Officer and General Manager:

"The Detroit Tigers were saddened to hear of the passing of Steve Boros. Steve started and finished his career as a Tiger, first as a player, and most recently with us in the front office. Steve was a life-long baseball man, who we respected for his years of experience as a player, manager and teacher of the game. We've lost another long-standing member of our Tigers' family and the organization extends its heartfelt condolences to the Boros family."

A native of Michigan, Boros began his career in professional baseball after signing with the Tigers in 1957. He played seven seasons at major league level with the Tigers (1957-58, 1961-62), Chicago Cubs (1963) and Cincinnati Reds (1964-65). Boros spent more than 40 seasons in professional baseball, working the final nine seasons with the Tigers organization as the minor league field coordinator (1996-2002), director of player development (2003) and special assistant to the general manager (2004).

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DETROIT TIGERS STATEMENT ON THE PASSING OF BILL LAJOIE

2010-12-28T19:19:00.000-08:00

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DETROIT – The following is a club statement on the passing of Bill Lajoie attributable to David Dombrowski, Detroit Tigers President, Chief Executive Officer and General Manager:

"Bill played an integral role in building the Detroit Tigers into a world championship team in 1984 and a division title winner in 1987 as the Club's general manager. Bill was a respected and highly regarded baseball executive who made significant contributions to the Tigers franchise and the game of baseball. The Tigers organization extends its sincere condolences to the Lajoie family."

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TIGERS AGREE TO TERMS WITH MAGGLIO ORDONEZ

2010-12-17T08:56:00.001-08:00

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Photo by Jennifer MacPherson
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Outfielder Agrees to One-Year Contract with the Tigers

DETROIT – The Detroit Tigers today announced the club has agreed to terms with outfielder Magglio Ordonez on a one-year contract.

Ordonez hit .303 (98x323) with 56 runs scored, 17 doubles, a triple, 12 home runs and 59 RBI in 84 games with the Tigers in 2010 before landing on the disabled list for the remainder of the season on July 25 with a right ankle fracture.

“Magglio is one of the top run producers in baseball and he has been a consistent contributor to our club for the past six seasons,” Tigers President, Chief Executive Officer and General Manager David Dombrowski said. “Magglio’s return solidifies the middle of our lineup and we are excited to keep him in a Tigers uniform.”

Since joining the Tigers in 2005, Ordonez is hitting .318 (905x2842) with 176 doubles, six triples, 102 home runs and 501 RBI in 755 games over the six-season stretch. He is third among all American League players with a .318 batting average during that stretch.

A six-time American League all-star selection (1999-2001, 2003, 2006-07), Ordonez is batting .312 (2072x6649) with 416 doubles, 21 triples, 289 home runs and 1,204 RBI in 1,756 games during his 14-year major league career with the Chicago White Sox (1997-2004) and Tigers (2005-10).

Ordonez is second among all players in major league history from Venezuela with a .312 batting average and 289 home runs, while he is third with 1,204 RBI.

He belted a walk-off, three-run home run in Game Four of the American League Championship Series on October 14, 2006 versus Oakland, becoming the eighth player in major league history to hit a home run to end a post-season series.

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ALFREDO FIGARO SOLD BY THE TIGERS TO THE ORIX BUFFALOES

2010-12-14T10:15:00.000-08:00

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DETROIT – The Detroit Tigers today announced the club has released righthanded pitcher Alfredo Figaro after his contract was sold by the organization to the Orix Buffaloes in the Japanese Baseball League.

Figaro made eight appearances with the Tigers in 2010, posting a 0-2 record and 6.75 ERA (14.2IP/11ER). He finished 10-6 with a 4.14 ERA (124.0IP/57ER) in 23 starts with Triple A Toledo this past season.

Figaro compiled a 2-4 record and 6.54 ERA (31.2IP/23ER) in 13 outings (four starts) over his two seasons at the major league level with Detroit.

The Tigers now have 39 players on the club’s 40-man roster.

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