Detroit's Magic Number Is At 4!

Minnesota went into the first game of a doubleheader with a two-game lead over Detroit. A first game 3-2 win, in 10 innings, put the Twins right at the front door. They were knocking. The Twins wanted in. Detroit had other plans, and pitching ace Justin Verlander figured prominently in those plans. Behind a season high 129 pitches, Verlander secured his 18th win of the year, 6-5. The victory pushed Minnesota back toward the steps of the front porch. The Tigers regained their two-game lead in the Central, and the magic number is now at four. At least for now, the Twins can not touch the door.

Tonight's game is equally big. Jim Leyland will give the ball to Eddie Bonine. He is 0-1 with a 4.60 ERA, and a 1.47 WHIP. He will face Carl Pavano, who has a 13-11 record, 4.86 ERA, and a 1.35 WHIP.

Bonine pitched brilliantly on Friday night against the Chicago White Sox. Can he duplicate that performance tonight? The stakes are higher, much higher than they were four days ago. My biggest concern is whether he will be able to hold it together long enough while a struggling offense gets geared up.

On the other hand, Carl Pavano has been masterful against the Detroit Tigers. This season, he boasts a 4-0 record against Detroit. He has only allowed 7 earned runs. Will he continue to dominate Detroit in a place where the Tigers typically rule?

Once again, exciting and meaningful baseball is being played in Detroit. Biting your nails, pacing, and heart palpitations are a part of this. Those are the symptoms of pennant fever. It is what we asked for, it is what we welcome.

Under other circumstances, we would cringe. But, not so tonight.

GO TIGERS!