All That Glitters Isn't Always Gold

Rob Sanford

A 6 and 3 home stand....and a 4 game winning streak. What a home stand, with the exception of the Red Sox series. Incredibly the Tigers have beaten the Twins in 9 straight. But don't be fooled. These are not the same Twins of recent years....the worst pitching staff in the American League, injuries to key players like Joe Mauer to name just a few. So don't get too carried away.

One reason for moderation in attitude is the Chicago White Sox. The Pale Hose have suddenly started acting like the contenders many of us thought they would be. Who can explain it???? The Red Sox pound lumps in Tiger pitching....then go home and get swept by Chicago. So it appears the early season slump is slowly turning around for the southsiders and with a good starting rotation, figure to be a pain before it's all said and done.

Who in the world is Al Albuquerque????? He's maybe the greatest steal since the Louisiana Purchase...(for you history buffs). All he's done is to pile up 31 strike outs in almost 18 innings of relief and opponents are hitting just .136 against him. It's that blinding fastball, and a slider that simply disappears and becomes unhittable. The Tigers were one of 13 teams that competed to sign him over the winter, and he chose Motown...and we're glad he did. Oh, and one thing more...he has never pitched higher than Double-A in 4 seasons of professional baseball, with the exception with a few appearances in Toledo.

What is it with Jim Leyland and Ryan Raburn. Raburn is likely the worst outfielder I've ever seen wear the Old English D. He has no idea of what angle to take on a ball and consequently they get by him easily. And how about his hitting. I know he got hot late last season, but he's been nothing but an anchor in 2011 and is now hitting around .200. Never the less, Leyland continues to express confidence in him. Whatever.