2008 Gameday Press Passes

RECENT RESULTS: The Tigers were shut out for the ninth time this season, falling 5-0 to
the Mariners yesterday afternoon. Justin Verlander (2-8) suffered the loss for Detroit after
allowing four runs in seven innings of work. Carlos Guillen and Magglio Ordonez each finished
with a hit in the loss. The Tigers continue a nine-game road trip to the West Coast
this afternoon with the final game of a three-game set against the Mariners. Detroit concludes
the trip with a three-game series beginning tomorrow night in Oakland.
WINNING WAYS AGAINST SEATTLE: The Tigers have won four of their five games this
season against the Mariners, and the club has now won seven of its last nine games versus
Seattle dating back to July 15, 2007. During the nine-game stretch, the Tigers are hitting
.335 (109x325) with 73 runs scored, 24 doubles, five triples and 14 home runs against the
Mariners.
ROAD WARRIORS: Since the start of the 2006 season, Detroit has compiled a 103-88
record on the road. Detroit’s 103 wins on the road are tied for second in the majors along
with the New York Yankees during this stretch, with both clubs trailing the 105 road victories
by the New York Mets. The Tigers are tops among all American League clubs with a
4.19 ERA (1651.0IP/769ER) on the road during the stretch. The club is third in the
American League during the stretch with a .275 batting average (1876x6821) on the road.
ON THE OFFENSIVE AGAINST THE AMERICAN LEAGUE WEST: The Tigers are batting
.281 (135x481) with 93 runs scored, 29 doubles, five triples and 21 home runs in 14
games against American League West opponents in 2008. Detroit is second in the majors
with a .493 slugging percentage and 6.64 runs per game against the American League
West, while the club is fourth with a .351 on-base percentage.
SCORING POSITION SUCCESS: The Tigers are hitting .376 (35x93) with runners in scoring
position over the last 11 games after batting .205 (26x127) with runners in scoring position
in the previous 16 games.
ORDONEZ ON THE OFFENSIVE: Magglio Ordonez is batting .353 (48x136) with 23 runs
scored, 10 doubles, seven home runs and 28 RBI over his last 36 games dating back to April
21. He is second in the American League with a .353 batting average during that stretch,
while he is tied for second with 48 hits, fifth with 28 RBI and tied for ninth with seven home
runs. Ordonez collected his ninth multi-RBI game of the season on May 24 versus Minnesota
and the Tigers improved to 9-0 when he drives in multiple runs.
POLANCO’S PRODUCTION: Placido Polanco is batting .352 (45x128) with 21 runs scored,
12 doubles, two home runs and 11 RBI over his last 32 games dating to April 25. Polanco
is tied for the lead in the American League with 12 doubles during the stretch, while he is
second with a .352 batting average and tied for second with 45 hits.
PITCHING IN: Over the club’s last seven games, Tigers pitchers have combined to post a
3.38 ERA (64.0IP/24ER). Opponents are hitting .226 (53x234) during the seven-game
stretch. Detroit’s starting pitching has posted a 2.96 ERA (48.2IP/16ER) in the team’s last
seven games.
CABRERA ON A ROLL ON THE ROAD: Miguel Cabrera is hitting .303 (33x109) with seven
doubles, a triple, four home runs and 18 RBI in 29 games on the road this season. He is
eighth in the American League with a .303 batting average on the road.
FLASHING THE LEATHER: The Tigers have combined for a .990 fielding percentage
(387TC/4E) over the last 10 games. Detroit has committed just one error over the last four
games.
GOING DEEPER: Justin Verlander tossed seven innings for the Tigers yesterday against the
Mariners, marking the 24th time in the club’s last 32 games the starting pitcher worked at
least six innings. Detroit’s starters worked six-or-more innings nine times in the club’s first
23 games. Additionally, Tigers starting pitchers have recorded a quality start in 12 of the
last 19 games after collecting eight in the first 36 games of the season.
BAUTISTA’S REHAB ASSIGNMENT: Denny Bautista began an injury rehab assignment
with Triple A Toledo on May 24. In three outings with the Mud Hens, he has fanned six batters
and allowed an unearned run in 4.1 innings. Bautista has been sidelined since May 3
with right shoulder tendinitis.
INJURY UPDATE:
RHP Denny Bautista (right shoulder tendinitis, 15-day DL on May 3),
LHP Clay Rapada (biceps tendinitis, 15-day DL on May 21),
RHP Fernando Rodney (right shoulder tendinitis, 15-day DL on March 30),
OF Gary Sheffield (left oblique strain, 15-day DL on May 27),
C Vance Wilson (right elbow surgery recovery, 15-day DL on March 30),
RHP Joel Zumaya (right shoulder surgery recovery, 15-day DL on March 30).
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BOOK ON BONDO: In his sixth season with the Tigers, Bonderman makes his 12th start of the 2008 season this afternoon against the Mariners.
DOUBLE-DIGIT WINNER: Bonderman won 11 games last season, marking the fourth straight season in which he has posted double-digit totals in wins. He is the first Tigers pitcher to do so since Brian Moehler also won 10-or-more games in four straight seasons (1997-2000).
SOLID IN HIS LAST THREE: Bonderman has posted a quality start in each of his last three outings, compiling a 1-0 record and 3.26 ERA (19.1IP/7ER). He has fanned 14 batters during the stretch, while limiting the opposition to a .243 batting average (17x70).
ROCKIN’ ON THE ROAD: Bonderman makes his sixth start of the season on the road for the Tigers this afternoon against the Mariners. He is 2-1 with a 2.90 ERA (31.0IP/10ER) in his previous five outings on the road.
ROUGH ON RIGHTIES: In his first 11 starts of the season, Bonderman has limited righthanded batters to a .234 batting average (29x124). During his career, righthanded batters are hitting .252 (433x1719) with Bonderman on the mound.
RISP MANAGEMENT: In his first 11 starts this season, Bonderman has limited opponents to a .184 batting average (9x49) with runners in scoring position. Opponents are hitting .125 (3x24) with runners in scoring position and two outs against Bonderman.
RECORD AT SAFECO FIELD: Bonderman is making his fourth start at SAFECO Field during his career this afternoon. In his previous three outings, he is 2-1 with a 2.78 ERA (22.2IP/7ER).
SLOWING THE RUNNING GAME: Five of the seven baserunners attempting to steal against Bonderman have been caught stealing (71.4 percent). In comparison, 75 of the 98 baserunners attempting to steal were successful (76.5 percent) in Bonderman’s first five seasons.
GETTING THE GROUND BALL: Bonderman enters his start today against the Mariners 16th among all American League pitchers with a 1.42 ground ball/fly ball ratio (98 ground ball outs/69 fly ball outs) this season. For his career, he has posted a 1.50 ground ball/fly ball ratio (1463 ground ball outs/973 fly ball outs).
FANNING BATTERS WITH THE BEST OF THEM IN FRANCHISE HISTORY: During his major league career with the Tigers, Bonderman has averaged 7.35 strikeouts per nine innings pitched. Among all pitchers in franchise history with at least as many innings pitched as Bonderman, he is second in club history, just behind John Hiller’s 7.51 strikeouts per nine innings during Hiller’s 15-year career with the Tigers.
STRIKE THREE: Since making his major league debut with the Tigers in 2003, Bonderman has averaged 7.35 strikeouts per nine innings. He is currently ninth among all American League pitchers in strikeouts per nine innings since the start of 2003.

RECENT RESULTS: Detroit scored four runs in the ninth inning to post a 7-5 win over Seattle yesterday afternoon, the club’s third win in its last four games. Zach Miner (2-3) tossed a scoreless inning of relief to earn the win. Magglio Ordonez and Miguel Cabrera both finished with two hits and two RBI, while Carlos Guillen added two hits and an RBI. The Tigers continue a nine-game road trip to the West Coast this evening with the first game of a three-game set against Oakland.
ORDONEZ, GALARRAGA EARN TIGERS HONORS FOR MAY: Magglio Ordonez and Armando Galarraga were selected the Tigers Player and Pitcher of the Month, respectively, for May. Ordonez batted .350 (36x103) with 17 runs scored, eight doubles, four home runs and 16 RBI in 27 games during the month. Ordonez was sixth in the American League with a .350 batting average during May. Galarraga finished 2-2 with a 4.55 ERA (31.2IP/16ER) in five starts during May.
ROAD WARRIORS: Since the start of the 2006 season, Detroit has compiled a 104-88 record on the road. Detroit’s 104 wins on the road are second in the majors during this stretch, trailing the 105 road victories by the New York Mets. The Tigers are tops among all American League clubs with a 4.20 ERA (1660.0IP/774ER) on the road during the stretch. The club is third in the American League during the stretch with a .275 batting average (1886x6857) on the road.
ON THE OFFENSIVE AGAINST THE AMERICAN LEAGUE WEST: The Tigers are batting .280 (145x517) with 100 runs scored, 31 doubles, five triples and 21 home runs in 15 games against American League West opponents in 2008. Detroit is second in the majors with a .482 slugging percentage and 6.67 runs per game against the American League West, while the club is fourth with a .352 on-base percentage.
POLANCO PACKS A PUNCH AGAINST A’S: Placido Polanco is tops among all major league players with a .446 batting average (41x92) in 23 games against Oakland since the start of the 2005 season. During his career, he is hitting .442 (46x104) with six doubles, two home runs and 16 RBI in 26 games against the club. Polanco was selected the Most Valuable Player of the 2006 American League Championship Series after batting .529 (9x17) in four games versus Oakland.
PUDGE RECEIVES A’S VERSUS OAKLAND: In 162 games during his career against Oakland, Ivan Rodriguez is hitting .309 (199x645) with 104 runs scored, 46 doubles, six triples, 21 home runs and 87 RBI. He is tied for the lead among all active players with 46 doubles against Oakland, while he is second with 199 hits, fifth with 87 RBI, eighth with 21 home runs and 11th with a .309 batting average.
SCORING POSITION SUCCESS: The Tigers are hitting .381 (40x105) with runners in scoring position over the last 12 games.
ORDONEZ ON THE OFFENSIVE: Magglio Ordonez is batting .357 (50x140) with 24 runs scored, 10 doubles, seven home runs and 30 RBI over his last 37 games dating back to April 21. He is tops in the American League with a .357 batting average during that stretch, while he is second with 50 hits and fifth with 30 RBI. Ordonez collected his 10th multi-RBI game of the season yesterday at Seattle and the Tigers improved to 10-0 when he drives in multiple runs.
POLANCO’S PRODUCTION: Placido Polanco is batting .346 (46x133) with 22 runs scored, 12 doubles, two home runs and 12 RBI over his last 33 games dating to April 25. Polanco is tied for second in the American League with 46 hits during the stretch, while he is tied for third with 12 doubles and fourth with a .346 batting average.
PITCHING IN: Over the club’s last eight games, Tigers pitchers have combined to post a 3.58 ERA (73.0IP/29ER). Opponents are hitting .249 (68x273) during the eight-game stretch. Detroit’s starting pitching has posted a 3.07 ERA (55.2IP/19ER) in the team’s last eight games. The starting pitchers have recorded a quality start in six of the games during
the eight-game stretch.
RODNEY, ZUMAYA SET TO BEGIN INJURY REHAB ASSIGNMENTS: Righthanded pitchers Fernando Rodney and Joel Zumaya are both scheduled to begin an injury rehab assignment on Tuesday. Rodney will be assigned to Triple A Toledo, while Zumaya will be assigned to Single A Lakeland.
BAUTISTA’S REHAB ASSIGNMENT: Denny Bautista began an injury rehab assignment with Triple A Toledo on May 24. In three outings with the Mud Hens, he has fanned six batters and allowed an unearned run in 4.1 innings. Bautista has been sidelined since May 3 with right shoulder tendinitis.
INJURY UPDATE:
RHP Denny Bautista (right shoulder tendinitis, 15-day DL on May 3),
LHP Clay Rapada (biceps tendinitis, 15-day DL on May 21),
RHP Fernando Rodney (right shoulder tendinitis, 15-day DL on March 30),
OF Gary Sheffield (left oblique strain, 15-day DL on May 27),
C Vance Wilson (right elbow surgery recovery, 15-day DL on March 30),
RHP Joel Zumaya (right shoulder surgery recovery, 15-day DL on March 30).
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THE READ ON ROGERS: Rogers is making his 12th start of the season for the Tigers tonight against the Oakland Athletics.
MOVING UP THE ALL-TIME LEFTY LIST: Rogers is currently in 21st place on the all-time win list among lefthanded pitchers with his 214 career victories. With two more wins, he will match Wilbur Cooper for 20th on that all-time list.
AMONG THE ACTIVE LEADERS: Rogers enters his start this evening against the Athletics among the active major league pitching leaders in numerous categories. He is seventh with 214 wins and 455 games started, while he is eighth with 3188.2 innings pitched and 11th with 1923 strikeouts.
HELLO AGAIN: Rogers is facing Oakland tonight for the first time since he defeated the Athletics in Game Three of the American League Championship Series at Comerica Park on October 13, 2006. He blanked Oakland on two hits over 7.1 innings of work as the Tigers knocked off Rich Harden and Oakland 3-0.
EARNING A’S VERSUS OAKLAND: Rogers is 10-1 with a 3.61 ERA (112.1IP/45ER) in 18 starts versus Oakland since 2002. His 10 wins are second-most among all active pitchers during that stretch.
SEVEN STRAIGHT AGAINST THE A’S: Rogers has won each of his last seven decisions against Oakland, an eight-start stretch that dates back to September 22, 2004. He has compiled a 3.51 ERA (51.1IP/20ER) during the eight-start stretch.
RECORD AT MCAFEE COLISEUM: Tonight marks the 57th appearance, 46th start, of Rogers’ career at McAfee Coliseum. In the previous 56 outings, he is 25-4 with a 3.46 ERA (307.1IP/118ER). Since 1995, he is 23-1 with a 3.17 ERA (278.0IP/98ER) in 42 appearances (41 starts).
SOLID SUPPORT: Rogers is fourth in the American League with 6.34 runs per nine innings of support this season. Since joining the Tigers in 2006, he is seventh in the American League with 6.17 runs per nine innings of support.
NO SWIPING: Tony Pena's stolen base against Rogers in the third inning on May 15 at Kansas City was the first time an opponent attempted to steal against Rogers since Toronto's Gregg Zaun was caught stealing in the fourth inning on September 28, 2006. It was a stretch of 20 appearances (19 starts) without an opponent even attempting to steal against him. The last successful stolen base attempt against Rogers was by Boston's Coco Crisp on June 2, 2006 when he stole second base in the fourth inning. It was a stretch of 41 appearances (40 starts) without a stolen base against Rogers. During his Tigers career, opponents have been successful in two of the nine stolen base attempts (22.2 percent) and he has picked off five runners.
TOUGH ON THE LEFTIES: Lefthanded batters are hitting .218 (67x307) against Rogers since he joined the Tigers in 2006.
WINNING WAYS: Rogers is seventh among all active lefthanded pitchers with a .593 winning percentage during his major league career.

RECENT RESULTS: The Tigers suffered a 3-2 loss to Oakland last night. Francisco
Cruceta (0-3) took the loss in relief after allowing the game-winning run to Oakland in the
ninth inning. Kenny Rogers started for Detroit, but he did not figure in the decision after
allowing two runs in seven innings. Curtis Granderson belted a solo home run for Detroit,
while Jeff Larish added a run-scoring single. The Tigers continue a nine-game road trip to
the West Coast this evening with the second game of a three-game set against Oakland.
Following an off day on Thursday, the Tigers begin a 10-game homestand on Friday that
features a visit from the Cleveland Indians, Chicago White Sox and Los Angeles Dodgers.
TIGERS PURCHASE CONTRACT OF FOSSUM FROM TRIPLE A: The Tigers today
announced the club has purchased the contract of lefthanded pitcher Casey Fossum from
Triple A Toledo and designated the contract of righthanded pitcher Francisco Cruceta for
assignment. Fossum appeared in 11 games (four starts) with Toledo, posting a 3-0 record,
1.96 ERA (46.0IP/10ER) and 48 strikeouts. Fossum signed with the Tigers organization as
a minor league free agent on April 8.
ROAD WARRIORS: Since the start of the 2006 season, Detroit has compiled a 104-89
record on the road. Detroit’s 104 wins on the road are second in the majors during this
stretch, trailing the 105 road victories by the New York Mets. The Tigers are tops among
all American League clubs with a 4.19 ERA (1668.1IP/777ER) on the road during the
stretch. The club is third in the American League during the stretch with a .275 batting
average (1891x6887) on the road.
ON THE OFFENSIVE AGAINST THE AMERICAN LEAGUE WEST: The Tigers are batting
.274 (150x547) with 102 runs scored, 32 doubles, five triples and 22 home runs in 16
games against American League West opponents in 2008. Detroit is second in the majors
with a .472 slugging percentage and 6.38 runs per game against the American League
West this season.
POLANCO PACKS A PUNCH AGAINST A’S: Placido Polanco is tops among all major
league players with a .438 batting average (42x96) in 24 games against Oakland since the
start of the 2005 season. During his career, he is hitting .435 (47x108) with six doubles,
two home runs and 16 RBI in 27 games against the club. Polanco was selected the Most
Valuable Player of the 2006 American League Championship Series after batting .529
(9x17) in four games versus Oakland.
PUDGE RECEIVES A’S VERSUS OAKLAND: In 163 games during his career against
Oakland, Ivan Rodriguez is hitting .309 (200x648) with 104 runs scored, 46 doubles, six
triples, 21 home runs and 87 RBI. He is tied for the lead among all active players with 46
doubles against Oakland, while he is second with 200 hits, fifth with 87 RBI, eighth with 21
home runs and 11th with a .309 batting average.
SCORING POSITION SUCCESS: The Tigers are hitting .380 (41x108) with runners in scoring
position over the last 13 games.
ORDONEZ ON THE OFFENSIVE: Magglio Ordonez is batting .347 (50x144) with 24 runs
scored, 10 doubles, seven home runs and 30 RBI over his last 38 games dating back to April
21. He is second in the American League with a .347 batting average during that stretch,
while he is fourth with 50 hits and fifth with 30 RBI. Ordonez collected his 10th multi-RBI
game of the season on Sunday at Seattle and the Tigers improved to 10-0 when he drives in
multiple runs.
POLANCO’S PRODUCTION: Placido Polanco is batting .343 (47x134) with 22 runs scored,
12 doubles, two home runs and 12 RBI over his last 34 games dating to April 25. Polanco is
third in the American League with a .343 batting average and 47 hits during the stretch,
while he is tied for third with 12 doubles.
PITCHING IN: Over the club’s last nine games, Tigers pitchers have combined to post a
3.54 ERA (81.1IP/32ER). Opponents are hitting .254 (77x303) during the nine-game
stretch. Detroit’s starting pitching has posted a 3.02 ERA (62.2IP/21ER) in the team’s last
nine games. The starting pitchers have recorded a quality start in seven of the games during
the nine-game stretch.
RODNEY, ZUMAYA SET TO BEGIN INJURY REHAB ASSIGNMENTS: Righthanded pitchers
Fernando Rodney and Joel Zumaya are both scheduled to begin an injury rehab assignment
today. Rodney has been assigned to Triple A Toledo, while Zumaya has been
assigned to Single A Lakeland.
BAUTISTA’S REHAB ASSIGNMENT: Denny Bautista began an injury rehab assignment
with Triple A Toledo on May 24. In four outings with the Mud Hens, he has fanned seven batters
and allowed an unearned run in 5.1 innings. Bautista has been sidelined since May 3
with right shoulder tendinitis.
INJURY UPDATE:
RHP Denny Bautista (right shoulder tendinitis, 15-day DL on May 3),
LHP Clay Rapada (biceps tendinitis, 15-day DL on May 21),
RHP Fernando Rodney (right shoulder tendinitis, 15-day DL on March 30),
OF Gary Sheffield (left oblique strain, 15-day DL on May 27),
C Vance Wilson (right elbow surgery recovery, 15-day DL on March 30),
RHP Joel Zumaya (right shoulder surgery recovery, 15-day DL on March 30).
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WISDOM ON WILLIS: In his first season with the Tigers, Willis will make his third start of the season this evening against the Oakland Athletics.
LONG-TERM DEAL: Willis agreed to a three-year contract during the off-season, keeping him in a Tigers uniform through the 2010 season.
DOUBLE-DIGIT WINNER: Willis has won 10-or-more games in each of his last five seasons, making him one of six lefthanded pitchers in the majors with an active streak of five-or-more seasons posting double digit wins. C.C. Sabathia, Mark Buehrle and Barry Zito lead the way with seven straight seasons, while Johan Santana and Ted Lilly join Willis with five straight seasons.
SIDELINED FOR THE FIRST TIME: Willis was on the disabled list April 12-May 21 with a hyperextension of his right knee. It marked the first time Willis was on the disabled list in his major league career.
WHAT A RELIEF: After being reinstated from the disabled list on May 21, Willis was placed in the Tigers bullpen. He appeared in relief for the first time in his major league career on May 23 versus Minnesota, allowing a run in an inning of work.
WESTERN EXPOSURE: Willis is making only his fifth career start against an opponent from the American League West tonight at Oakland. In his four previous starts, he is 2-1 with a 2.84 ERA (25.1IP/8ER).
WELCOME TO THE AMERICAN LEAGUE: During his career, Willis has compiled a 7-5 record and 3.12 ERA (104.0IP/36ER) in 18 appearances (17 starts) against American League clubs.
RECORD AT MCAFEE COLISEUM: Willis is making his first career start at McAfee Coliseum this evening.
LIMITING THE LEFTIES: Willis limited lefthanded batters to a .123 batting average (13x106) with the Marlins during the 2007 season. In his career, lefties are hitting .203 (123x607) with Willis on the mound. He has not surrendered a home run to a lefthanded batter in his last 48 appearances (47 starts; 153 at-bats against lefthanded hitters). Philadelphia’s Ryan Howard was the last lefthanded batter to homer against Willis, doing so on July 29, 2006 at Citizens Bank Park.
MISCELLANEOUS NOTES: Willis was acquried by the Tigers from the Marlins in an eight-player deal on December 5, 2007. He was selected to the National League’s all-star squad in 2003 and 2005. Willis was named the National League Rookie of the Year in 2003.

RECENT RESULTS: The Tigers suffered a 5-4 loss last night in 11 innings to Oakland. Bobby Seay (0-1) took the loss after allowing the game-winning run in the 11th inning. Placido Polanco finished with two hits and an RBI for the Tigers, while Curtis Granderson, Miguel Cabrera and Carlos Guillen all added a hit and an RBI. The Tigers conclude a nine game road trip to the West Coast this afternoon with the final game of a three-game set against Oakland. Following an off day tomorrow, the Tigers begin a 10-game homestand on Friday that features a visit from the Indians, White Sox and Dodgers.
ROAD WARRIORS: Since the start of the 2006 season, Detroit has compiled a 104-90 record on the road. Detroit’s 104 wins on the road are second in the majors during this stretch, trailing the 106 road victories by the New York Mets. The Tigers are tops among all American League clubs with a 4.19 ERA (1679.0IP/782ER) on the road during the stretch. The club is third in the American League during the stretch with a .274 batting average (1900x6925) on the road.
POLANCO PACKS A PUNCH AGAINST A’S: Placido Polanco is tops among all major league players with a .431 batting average (44x102) in 25 games against Oakland since the start of the 2005 season. During his career, he is hitting .430 (49x114) with six doubles, two home runs and 17 RBI in 28 games against the club. Polanco was selected the Most Valuable Player of the 2006 American League Championship Series after batting .529 (9x17) in four games versus Oakland.
PUDGE RECEIVES A’S VERSUS OAKLAND: In 164 games during his career against Oakland, Ivan Rodriguez is hitting .308 (201x652) with 105 runs scored, 46 doubles, six triples, 21 home runs and 87 RBI. He is tied for the lead among all active players with 46 doubles against Oakland, while he is second with 201 hits, fifth with 87 RBI, eighth with 21 home runs and 11th with a .308 batting average.
ORDONEZ ON THE OFFENSIVE: Magglio Ordonez is batting .340 (50x147) with 24 runs scored, 10 doubles, seven home runs and 30 RBI over his last 39 games dating back to April 21. He is third in the American League with a .340 batting average during that stretch, while he is tied for fourth with 50 hits and fifth with 30 RBI. Ordonez collected his 10th multi-RBI game of the season on Sunday at Seattle and the Tigers improved to 10-0 when he drives in multiple runs.
POLANCO’S PRODUCTION: Placido Polanco is batting .343 (49x143) with 23 runs scored, 12 doubles, two home runs and 13 RBI over his last 35 games dating to April 25. Polanco is third in the American League with 49 hits during the stretch, while he is tied for third with 12 doubles and fourth with a .343 batting average.
PITCHING IN: Over the club’s last 10 games, Tigers pitchers have combined to post a 3.62 ERA (92.0IP/37ER). Opponents are hitting .250 (85x340) during the 10-game stretch. Detroit’s starting pitching has posted a 2.84 ERA (66.2IP/21ER) in the team’s last 10 games. The starting pitchers have recorded a quality start in seven of the games during the 10-game stretch.
REHAB RUNDOWN: Righthanded pitchers Denny Bautista, Fernando Rodney and Joel Zumaya are all currently pitching as part of injury rehab assignments:
• Bautista was assigned to Triple A Toledo on May 24. In five outings with the Mud Hens, he has fanned seven batters and allowed an unearned run in 6.1 innings.
• Rodney was assigned to Triple A Toledo yesterday and he tossed two scoreless innings in his first outing last night at Louisville. Rodney allowed one hit and two walks as he fanned one batter to earn the win.
• Zumaya was assigned to Single A Lakeland yesterday and he worked two scorless innings in his first outing last night versus Sarasota. Zumaya surrendered one hit and one walk, while he fanned one batter.
FIVE WHITECAPS NAMED TO ML ALL-STAR SQUAD: The following five players with Single A West Michigan have been selected to the Midwest League all-star squad: righthanded pitcher Alfredo Figaro, lefthanded pitcher Jon Kibler, first baseman Chris Carlson, infielder Joe Tucker and outfielder Casper Wells.
INJURY UPDATE:
RHP Denny Bautista (right shoulder tendinitis, 15-day DL on May 3),
LHP Clay Rapada (biceps tendinitis, 15-day DL on May 21),
RHP Fernando Rodney (right shoulder tendinitis, 15-day DL on March 30),
OF Gary Sheffield (left oblique strain, 15-day DL on May 27),
C Vance Wilson (right elbow surgery recovery, 15-day DL on March 30),
RHP Joel Zumaya (right shoulder surgery recovery, 15-day DL on March 30).
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NOTES ON NATE: In his fifth full season with the Tigers, Robertson makes his 12th start of the season this afternoon against the Oakland Athletics.
LONG-TERM DEAL: Robertson agreed to a three-year contract during the off-season, keeping him in a Tigers uniform through the 2010 season.
MOVING UP THE TIGERS LEFTY LIST: Robertson is making his 146th start as a member of the Detroit Tigers this afternoon, moving him within 13 starts of tying Ted Gray for seventh place among lefthanded pitchers in franchise history. Robertson is one of only 16 lefthanded pitchers in club history to surpass 100 starts in a Tigers uniform.
GOING FOR THREE STRAIGHT: Robertson has won each of his last two starts for the Tigers and he enters his start against the Athletics this afternoon looking to win three straight starts for the first time since he won three straight starts August 20-30, 2004. Robertson last posted a three-game winning streak for the Tigers over a four-start stretch June 11-27, 2006.
TAKING THE BALL EVERY FIFTH DAY: Since the start of the 2004 season, Robertson has started 137 games for the Tigers. During that stretch, he is third among all American League pitchers with the 137 games started. Additionally, Robertson is sixth in the league with 845.0 innings pitched during the stretch.
SOLID SUPPORT: Robertson is third in the American League with 6.75 runs per nine innings of support this season.
LOOKING FOR THE GROUND BALL: Robertson was seventh among American League pitchers with a 1.49 ground ball/fly ball ratio (1199 ground ball outs/807 fly ball outs) from 2004-07. He enters his start today against the Athletics with a 0.94 ground ball/fly ball ratio (81 ground ball outs/86 fly ball outs) this season, eighth-lowest among league pitchers.
RECORD AT MCAFEE COLISEUM: Robertson is making his fifth start at McAfee Coliseum during his career this afternoon against the Athletics. In his previous four outings, he is 0-3 with a 6.12 ERA (25.0IP/17ER).
FIRST TIME SUCCESS: Robertson has limited the opposition to a .239 batting average (22x92) the first time through the lineup in 2008. Starting the second time around, opponents are hitting .333 (58x174) against him.
LIMITING THE LEFTIES: During his major league career, Robertson has limited lefties to a .256 batting average (204x797). During that stretch, he has held lefties to a .305 on-base percentage and .356 slugging percentage.

RECENT RESULTS: The Tigers suffered a 10-2 loss to Oakland on Wednesday afternoon, the club’s fourth loss in its last five games. Nate Robertson (3-6) allowed five runs on eight hits in 6.1 innings of work to take the loss for Detroit. Carlos Guillen and Magglio Ordonez both finished with a hit and an RBI for Detroit, while Marcus Thames and Ramon Santiago each added a single. The Tigers begin a 10-game homestand this evening with the first game of a four-game series against the Cleveland Indians. The White Sox and Dodgers both travel to Detroit for a three-game series each to conclude the homestand.
ROSTER MOVES: The Tigers today announced the following roster moves:
• Infielder Ramon Santiago was placed on the 15-day disabled list yesterday with a separated left shoulder.
• The Tigers recalled the injury rehab assignment of righthanded pitcher Denny Bautista from Triple A Toledo yesterday and reinstated him from the disabled list. Bautista appeared in five games with the Mud Hens, posting a 0-1 record as he fanned seven batters and allowed an unearned run in 6.1 innings. He had been sidelined since May 3 with right shoulder tendinitis.
• Outfielder Clete Thomas has been placed on the 15-day disabled list retroactive to June 4 with a sprained right ankle.
• Righthanded pitcher Aquilino Lopez has been placed on the bereavement list today.
• The Tigers today purchased the contract of infielder Michael Hollimon from Triple A Toledo. Hollimon was hitting .250 (46x184) with 11 doubles, three triples, 12 home runs and 21 RBI in 44 games with the Mud Hens.
• The Tigers today recalled the contract of outfielder Brent Clevlen from Triple A Toledo. Clevlen was batting .324 (69x213) with 14 doubles, five triples, 13 home runs and 55 RBI in 58 games with the Mud Hens. He departs Toledo tied for the lead in the International League with 55 RBI, while he is third with 32 extra-base hits, tied for third with 69 hits, fourth with a .620 slugging percentage, fifth with a .324 batting average and 13 home runs
and tied for fifth with five triples.
GUILLEN SWINGS A HOT BAT AGAINST BYRD: Carlos Guillen enters tonight’s game with a .455 batting average (15x33) during his career versus Paul Byrd. Guillen is second among all active major league players with a minimum of 30 plate appearances against Byrd with a .455 batting average.
ORDONEZ ON THE OFFENSIVE: Magglio Ordonez is batting .340 (51x150) with 24 runs scored, 10 doubles, seven home runs and 31 RBI over his last 40 games dating back to April 21. He is third in the American League with a .340 batting average during that stretch, while he is tied for fifth with 51 hits and 31 RBI. Ordonez collected his 10th multi-RBI game of the season on Sunday at Seattle and the Tigers improved to 10-0 when he drives in multiple runs.
POLANCO’S PRODUCTION: Placido Polanco is batting .343 (49x143) with 23 runs scored, 12 doubles, two home runs and 13 RBI over his last 35 games dating to April 25. Polanco is fourth in the American League with a .343 batting average during the stretch, while he is tied for fourth with 49 hits and tied for fifth with 12 doubles.
HAPPY AT HOME: In 88 games at Comerica Park dating back to May 10, 2007, Magglio Ordonez is hitting .401 (133x332) with 72 runs scored, 32 doubles, 22 home runs and 83 RBI. He has reached base safely via a hit or walk in 79 of the games.
HOLLIMON BECOMES SIXTH PICK FROM 2005 DRAFT TO REACH MAJORS: Michael Hollimon becomes the sixth player selected by the Tigers in the 2005 MLB First-Year Player Draft, David Chadd’s first draft with Detroit, to reach the major leagues. Hollimon (a 16th round selection) joins Cameron Maybin (#1), Jeff Larish (#5), Clete Thomas (#6), Matt Joyce
(#12) and Burke Badenhop (#19) in reaching the major leagues.
REHAB RUNDOWN: Righthanded pitchers Fernando Rodney and Joel Zumaya are both currently pitching as part of injury rehab assignments:
• Rodney was assigned to Triple A Toledo on Tuesday and he tossed two scoreless innings in his first outing that night at Louisville. Rodney allowed one hit and two walks as he fanned one batter to earn the win.
• Zumaya was assigned to Single A Lakeland on Tuesday and he worked two scorless innings in his first outing that night versus Sarasota. Zumaya surrendered one hit and one walk, while he fanned one batter.
INJURY UPDATE:
LHP Clay Rapada (biceps tendinitis, 15-day DL on May 21),
RHP Fernando Rodney (right shoulder tendinitis, 15-day DL on March 30), INF Ramon Santiago (separated left shoulder, 15-day DL on June 5),
OF Gary Sheffield (left oblique strain, 15-day DL on May 27),
OF Clete Thomas (sprained right ankle, 15-day DL on June 4),
C Vance Wilson (right elbow surgery recovery, 15-day DL on March 30),
RHP Joel Zumaya (right shoulder surgery recovery, 15-day DL on March 30).
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JUSTIN’S CASE: In his third full season at the major league level, Verlander will make his 13th start of the season this evening against the Cleveland Indians.
WINNING AT HOME: Verlander is tied for fourth among all American League pitchers with 20 wins, along with Boston’s Josh Beckett, at home since the
start of the 2006 season. He has compiled a 20-9 record in his 38 starts at home during the stretch, a .690 winning percentage. Only New York’s Chien-Ming Wang (24), Toronto’s Roy Halladay (22) and New York’s Mike Mussina (21) have posted more wins at home during the stretch.
TROUBLE WITH THE TRIBE: Verlander has lost each of his last three starts against the Indians, posting an 11.66 ERA (14.2IP/19ER). His 7.03 ERA against the Indians is highest versus any opponent during his career.
SHORT ON SUPPORT: In his 12 starts this season, Verlander has received 3.12 runs per nine innings of support, fourth-lowest in the American League. Over his first two full major league seasons (2006-07), Verlander was tops among all major league pitchers with 7.08 runs per nine innings of support.
ROUGH ON THE RIGHTIES: Verlander has limited righthanded batters to a .231 batting average (36x156) through his first 12 starts this season. During his career, righthanded hitters are batting .242 (218x900) with Verlander on the mound.
RECORD AT COMERICA PARK: Verlander is making his 40th career start at Comerica Park this evening. In his previous 39 starts, he is 20-10 with a 3.84 ERA (241.1IP/103ER).
MORE PITCHES: Verlander enters his start tonight tops among all American League pitchers with 108.2 pitches per game. In his first two seasons (2006-07), he averaged 102.0 pitches per game, 11th-most in the league.
PICKED OFF: Since the start of the 2006 season, Verlander has picked off 11 baserunners. He is second in the American League during this stretch, trailing Chicago’s Mark Buehrle with 17.
QUALITY OUTINGS: Verlander has posted a quality start in 43 of his 76 starts at the major league level during his career. He has worked six-or-more innings in 54 of his starts during his career.

VERLANDER’S GAME HIGHS:
LAST CG: June 12, 2007 vs. Milwaukee.
LAST SHUTOUT: June 12, 2007 vs. Milwaukee.
STRIKEOUT HIGH - 2008: 7 - May 20, 2008 vs. Seattle.
STRIKEOUT HIGH - CAREER: 12 - June 12, 2007 vs. Milwaukee.
WALK HIGH - 2008: 4 (four times) - last, May 25, 2008 vs. Minnesota.
WALK HIGH - CAREER: 7 - August 16, 2006 at Boston.
LOW-HIT GAME - 2008: 4 (three times) - last, May 20, 2008 vs. Seattle.
LOW-HIT GAME - CAREER (CG): 0 - June 12, 2007 vs. Milwaukee.

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VERLANDER VS. INDIANS:
LIFETIME: 3-6, 7.03 ERA, 10 G, 10 GS, 0 CG, 56.1 IP, 69 H, 45 R, 44 ER, 20 BB, 51 SO.
IN 2008: 0-1, 9.00 ERA, 1 G, 1 GS, 0 CG, 5.0 IP, 7 H, 5 R, 5 ER, 4 BB, 1 SO.
LAST START/LOSS: April 17, 2008 at Cleveland, 11-1 (5.0,7,5,5,4,1).
LAST WIN: July 5, 2007 at Detroit, 12-3 (7.0,6,3,2,0,7).
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BATTER-PITCHER MATCH-UPS:
VERLANDER vs. INDIANS - CAREER (AVG-AB-H-HR): Blake .350 20-7-0; Cabrera .250 4-1-0; Carroll .500 2-1-0; Choo .333 3-1-0;
Dellucci .400 5-2-0; Francisco .333 3-1-0; Garko .267 15-4-2; Gutierrez .500 8-4-1; Hafner .231 26-6-2; Marte .000 2-0-0;
Martinez .308 26-8-4; Peralta .250 28-7-0; Shoppach .000 4-0-0; Sizemore .280 25-7-1.
BYRD vs. TIGERS - CAREER (AVG-AB-H-HR): Cabrera .250 4-1-0; Granderson .241 29-7-0; Guillen .455 33-15-2; Inge .154 26-4-1;
Ordonez .225 40-9-2; Polanco .286 35-10-1; Renteria .407 27-11-1; Rodriguez .250 20-7-0; Thames .222 9-2-2.

RECENT RESULTS: The Tigers dropped their fourth straight game last night, falling 4-2 to the Cleveland Indians at Comerica Park. Justin Verlander (2-9) suffered the loss for Detroit after allowing three runs in seven innings of work. Jeff Larish and Brandon Inge both belted solo home for the Tigers, while Carlos Guillen added two hits. The Tigers continue a 10-game homestand this afternoon with the second game of a four-game series against the Indians. The White Sox and Dodgers both travel to Detroit for a three-game series each to conclude the homestand.
LOOKING FOR THE LEFTY: The Tigers face lefthanded pitcher Aaron Laffey this afternoon as they battle the Indians at Comerica Park. Since the start of the 2007 season, the Tigers have compiled a .292 batting average (491x1679) against lefthanded pitchers. Detroit leads the American League during this stretch with a .292 batting average and .475 slugging percentage against lefthanded pitching. Since the start of the 2007 season, the Tigers have posted a 35-19 record in games started by lefthanded pitchers.
HITTING THE TRIBE: Since the start of the 2007 season, the Tigers are hitting .288 (225x779) in 21 games against the Cleveland Indians. Detroit has scored 112 runs during the stretch, while collecting 54 doubles, five triples and 21 home runs.
GUILLEN ON THE OFFENSIVE VERSUS THE TRIBE: Since joining the Tigers in 2004, Carlos Guillen is hitting .348 (77x221) with 15 doubles, two triples, eight home runs and 31 RBI in 57 games. He is 11th among all active major league players with a .348 batting average against the Indians during the stretch.
ORDONEZ ON THE OFFENSIVE: Magglio Ordonez is batting .331 (51x154) with 24 runs scored, 10 doubles, seven home runs and 31 RBI over his last 41 games dating back to April 21. He is tied for fifth in the American League with 31 RBI during that stretch, while he is seventh with a .331 batting average and tied for ninth with 51 RBI. Ordonez collected his 10th multi-RBI game of the season on June 1 at Seattle and the Tigers improved to 10-0
when he drives in multiple runs.
POLANCO’S PRODUCTION: Placido Polanco is batting .333 (49x147) with 23 runs scored, 12 doubles, two home runs and 13 RBI over his last 36 games dating to April 25. Polanco is tied for fifth in the American League with 12 doubles during the stretch, while he is tied for sixth with 49 hits and seventh with a .333 batting average.
HAPPY AT HOME: In 89 games at Comerica Park dating back to May 10, 2007, Magglio Ordonez is hitting .396 (133x336) with 72 runs scored, 32 doubles, 22 home runs and 83 RBI. He has reached base safely via a hit or walk in 79 of the games.
SOLID STARTING: Tigers starting pitchers have combined to compile a 3.18 ERA (73.2IP/26ER) over the club’s last 11 games. Opponents are hitting .241 (65x270) against club starters during the 11-game stretch.
RAPADA ASSIGNED TO TOLEDO ON INJURY REHAB: The Tigers today assigned lefthanded pitcher Clay Rapada to Triple A Toledo as part of an injury rehab assignment.
REHAB RUNDOWN: Righthanded pitchers Fernando Rodney and Joel Zumaya are both currently pitching as part of injury rehab assignments:
• Rodney was assigned to Triple A Toledo on Tuesday and he has appeared in two games with the Mud Hens. He has earned one win in his two outings, while he has allowed three runs in 2.1 innings pitched.
• Zumaya was assigned to Single A Lakeland on Tuesday and he has appeared in two games with the Flying Tigers. He has fanned two batters in three scoreless innings of relief.
CLEVLEN, KIBLER EARN MINOR LEAGUE HONORS FOR MAY: Triple A Toledo outfielder Brent Clevlen and Single A West Michigan lefthanded pitcher Jon Kibler were selected the Tigers Minor League Player and Pitcher of the Month, respectively, for May. Clevlen batted .359 (37x103) with 18 runs scored, seven doubles, three triples, six home runs and 30 RBI in 29 games during the month. Clevlen finished third in the International League with 30 RBI during May, while he tied for third with a .359 batting average and tied for fifth with 68 total bases. Kibler compiled a 4-1 record, 1.49 ERA (36.1IP/6ER) and 35 strikeouts in five starts during the month. Kibler tied for second in the Midwest League with four wins during May, while he finished fourth with a 1.49 ERA and 35 strikeouts.
KUNKEL, STRIEBY ADDED TO FSL ALL-STAR SQUAD: Single A Lakeland catcher Jeff Kunkel and first baseman Ryan Strieby have been added to the Florida State League’s midseason all-star squad and will participate in the league’s all-star game.
INJURY UPDATE:
LHP Clay Rapada (biceps tendinitis, 15-day DL on May 21),
RHP Fernando Rodney (right shoulder tendinitis, 15-day DL on March 30), INF Ramon Santiago (separated left shoulder, 15-day DL on June 5),
OF Gary Sheffield (left oblique strain, 15-day DL on May 27),
OF Clete Thomas (sprained right ankle, 15-day DL on June 4),
C Vance Wilson (right elbow surgery recovery, 15-day DL on March 30),
RHP Joel Zumaya (right shoulder surgery recovery, 15-day DL on March 30).
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THE READ ON ROGERS: Rogers is making his 13th start of the season for the Tigers this afternoon against the Cleveland Indians.
MOVING UP THE ALL-TIME LEFTY LIST: Rogers is currently in 21st place on the all-time win list among lefthanded pitchers with his 214 career victories. With two more wins, he will match Wilbur Cooper for 20th on that all-time list.
AMONG THE ACTIVE LEADERS: Rogers enters his start this afternoon against the Indians among the active major league pitching leaders in numerous categories. He is seventh with 214 wins and 456 games
started, while he is eighth with 3195.2 innings pitched and 11th with 1926 strikeouts.
FINE IN HIS LAST FOUR VERSUS THE TRIBE: Rogers has compiled a 2-0 record and 2.39 ERA (26.1IP/7ER) in his last four starts against the Indians dating back to August 5, 2006. He has posted three quality starts versus Cleveland during the stretch.
SIZING UP GRADY: Rogers has limited Grady Sizemore to a .172 batting average (5x29) thus far in his career. It is Sizemore’s lowest batting average against all pitchers in which he has at least 20 plate appearances.
SOLID SUPPORT: Rogers is seventh in the American League with 5.94 runs per nine innings of support this season. Since joining the Tigers in 2006, he is seventh in the American League with 6.10 runs per nine innings of support.
RECORD AT COMERICA PARK: Rogers is making his 36th career ppearance, 33rd start, this afternoon at Comerica Park. In his previous 35 outings, he is 15-7 with a 3.61 ERA (199.1IP/80ER).
NO SWIPING: Tony Pena's stolen base against Rogers in the third inning on May 15 at Kansas City was the first time an opponent attempted to steal against Rogers since Toronto's Gregg Zaun was caught stealing in the fourth inning on September 28, 2006. It was a stretch of 20 appearances (19 starts) without an opponent even attempting to steal against him. The last
successful stolen base attempt against Rogers was by Boston's Coco Crisp on June 2, 2006 when he stole second base in the fourth inning. It was a stretch of 41 appearances (40 starts) without a stolen base against Rogers. During his Tigers career, opponents have been successful in two of the nine stolen base attempts (22.2 percent) and he has picked off five runners.
TOUGH ON THE LEFTIES: Lefthanded batters are hitting .218 (70x321) against Rogers since he joined the Tigers in 2006.
WINNING WAYS: Rogers is sixth among all active lefthanded pitchers with a .593 winning percentage during his major league career.

PICKING-OFF THE OPPOSITION: Rogers picked off Wilson Betemit in his start against the New York Yankees on May 9 to move into the top spot in major league history with 92 pitcher pick-offs since the statistic started being kept in 1974. The following are the top five pitchers in major league history in pitcher pick-offs:

Pitcher - Pick-offs
Kenny Rogers 92
Mark Langston 91
Andy Pettitte 86
Greg Swindell 77
Randy Johnson 77

ROGERS’ GAME HIGHS:
LAST CG: May 14, 2005 at Minnesota.
LAST SHUTOUT: May 14, 2005 at Minnesota.
STRIKEOUT HIGH - 2008: 6 - May 4, 2008 at Minnesota.
STRIKEOUT HIGH - CAREER: 10 (twice) - last, September 1, 1999 vs. Pittsburgh.
WALK HIGH - 2008: 4 (four times) - last, June 2, 2008 at Oakland.
WALK HIGH - CAREER: 8 - September 24, 2000 vs. Anaheim.
LOW-HIT GAME - 2008: 3 - April 18, 2008 at Toronto.
LOW-HIT GAME - CAREER (CG): 0 - July 28, 1994 vs. California.

ROGERS VS. INDIANS:
LIFETIME: 17-16, 5.12 ERA, 57 G, 34 GS, 1 CG, 246.0 IP, 279 H, 151 R, 140 ER, 90 BB, 147 SO. IN 2007: 1-0, 2.19 ERA, 2 G, 2 GS, 0 CG, 12.1 IP, 12 H, 4 R, 3 ER, 6 BB, 7 SO.
LAST START/NO-DECISION: September 17, 2007 at Cleveland, 6-5 L (7.0,5,2,2,3,4).
LAST WIN: July 4, 2007 at Detroit, 6-4 (5.1,7,2,1,3,3).
LAST LOSS: July 25, 2006 at Cleveland, 12-7 (0.2,5,7,7,3,2).

BATTER-PITCHER MATCH-UPS:
ROGERS vs. INDIANS - CAREER (AVG-AB-H-HR): Blake .211 38-8-3; Cabrera .333 3-1-0; Choo .000 5-0-0; Dellucci .500 2-1-0; Garko .333 6-2-0; Gutierrez .333 3-1-0; Hafner .435 23-10-2; Marte .000 4-0-0; Martinez .293 41-12-0; Peralta .281 32-9-3; Shoppach .000 4-0-0; Sizemore .172 29-5-0.
LAFFEY vs. TIGERS - CAREER (AVG-AB-H-HR): Has yet to face a Tigers batter.

RECENT RESULTS: The Tigers posted their second straight win yesterday afternoon, knocking off the Cleveland Indians 5-2. Armando Galarraga (5-2) picked up the win for Detroit after limiting the Indians two runs in 5.2 innings. Todd Jones worked a perfect ninth inning for his 10th save. Placido Polanco singled, doubled and drove in two runs, while Curtis Granderson belted a solo home run. The Tigers continue a 10-game homestand this evening with the final game of a four-game series against the Indians. The White Sox and Dodgers both travel to Detroit for a three-game series each to conclude the homestand.
LOOKING FOR THE LEFTY: The Tigers face lefthanded pitcher Cliff Lee this evening as they battle the Indians at Comerica Park. Since the start of the 2007 season, the Tigers have compiled a .293 batting average (504x1722) against lefthanded pitchers. Detroit leads the American League during this stretch with a .293 batting average and .476 slugging percentage against lefthanded pitching. Since the start of the 2007 season, the Tigers have posted a 37-19 record in games started by lefthanded pitchers.
HITTING THE TRIBE: Since the start of the 2007 season, the Tigers are hitting .289 (244x843) in 23 games against the Cleveland Indians. Detroit has scored 125 runs during the stretch, while collecting 58 doubles, five triples and 25 home runs.
GUILLEN ON THE OFFENSIVE VERSUS THE TRIBE: Since joining the Tigers in 2004, Carlos Guillen is hitting .351 (80x228) with 16 doubles, two triples, nine home runs and 32 RBI in 59 games. He is ninth among all active major league players with a .351 batting average against the Indians during the stretch.
TRIO OF TIGERS FARE WELL AGAINST LEE: Brandon Inge, Magglio Ordonez and Ivan Rodriguez have all enjoyed success during their respective careers against Cliff Lee. Among active major league players with at least 20 plate appearances against Lee, Inge is sixth with a .391 batting average (9x23), while Rodriguez is eighth with a .375 batting average (12x32) and Ordonez is ninth with a .367 batting average (11x30). Additionally, Marcus Thames is tied for second among all major league players with three home runs against Lee.
ORDONEZ ON THE OFFENSIVE: Magglio Ordonez is batting .335 (54x161) with 26 runs scored, 11 doubles, seven home runs and 31 RBI over his last 43 games dating back to April 21. He is fifth in the American League with a .335 batting average during that stretch, while he is tied for fifth with 54 hits and tied for seventh with 31 RBI. Ordonez collected his 10th multi-RBI game of the season on June 1 at Seattle and the Tigers improved to 10-0 when he drives in multiple runs.
POLANCO’S PRODUCTION: Placido Polanco is batting .327 (51x156) with 24 runs scored, 13 doubles, two home runs and 13 RBI over his last 38 games dating to April 25. Polanco is tied for fourth in the American League with 13 doubles during the stretch, while he is tied for sixth with 51 hits and ninth with a .327 batting average.
HAPPY AT HOME: In 91 games at Comerica Park dating back to May 10, 2007, Magglio Ordonez is hitting .397 (136x343) with 74 runs scored, 33 doubles, 22 home runs and 83 RBI. He has reached base safely via a hit or walk in 81 of the games.
SOLID STARTING: Tigers starting pitchers have combined to compile a 3.02 ERA (86.1IP/29ER) over the club’s last 13 games. Opponents are hitting .235 (74x325) against club starters during the 13-game stretch. The starters have posted eight quality starts during the stretch.
MINER ON A MISSION: Zach Miner is 3-2 with a 1.96 ERA (23.0IP/5ER) over his last 16 outings dating back to April 24. He has limited oppponents to a .190 batting average (16x84) during the stretch.
REHAB RUNDOWN: Righthanded pitchers Fernando Rodney and Joel Zumaya are both currently pitching as part of injury rehab assignments:
• Rodney was assigned to Triple A Toledo on Tuesday and he has appeared in two games with the Mud Hens. He has earned one win in his three outings, while he has fanned five batters and allowed four runs in 3.1 innings pitched.
• Zumaya was assigned to Single A Lakeland on Tuesday and he appeared in two games with the Flying Tigers. He fanned two batters in three scoreless innings of relief with Lakeland, before having his rehab assignment transferred to Triple A Toledo yesterday. He tossed a scoreless inning for the Mud Hens last night versus Columbus.
INJURY UPDATE:
RHP Jeremy Bonderman (thoracic outlet compression syndrome, 15- day DL on June 7),
RHP Fernando Rodney (right shoulder tendinitis, 15-day DL on March 30),
INF Ramon Santiago (separated left shoulder, 15-day DL on June 5),
OF Gary Sheffield (left oblique strain, 15-day DL on May 27),
OF Clete Thomas (sprained right ankle, 15-day DL on June 4),
C Vance Wilson (right elbow surgery recovery, 15-day DL on March 30),
RHP Joel Zumaya (right shoulder surgery recovery, 15-day DL on March 30).

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TIGERS AT A GLANCE IN 2008
vs. AL East: 8-8
vs. AL Central: 7-18
vs. AL West: 10-8
vs. NL: 1-2
Tigers score first: 14-9
Opponents score first: 12-27
Scoring five-or-more runs: 25-3
Scoring four-or-less runs: 1-33
Extra-innings: 0-3
One-run games: 4-10
Tigers get quality start: 13-11
Tigers starter works 6 innings: 16-22
Lead after 6th/7th/8th inning: 21-5/21-2/24-0
Trail after 6th/7th/8th inning: 4-26/3-30/1-31
Tied after 6th/7th/8th inning: 1-5/2-4/1-5
Tigers out hit opponent: 23-5
Opponent out hits Tigers: 3-30
Tigers and opponent have equal hits: 0-1

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WISDOM ON WILLIS: In his first season with the Tigers, Willis will make his fourth start of the season this evening against the Cleveland Indians.
LONG-TERM DEAL: Willis agreed to a three-year contract during the off-season, keeping him in a Tigers uniform through the 2010 season.
DOUBLE-DIGIT WINNER: Willis has won 10-or-more games in each of his last five seasons, making him one of six lefthanded pitchers in the majors with an active streak of five-or-more seasons posting double digit wins. C.C. Sabathia, Mark Buehrle and Barry Zito lead the way with seven straight seasons, while Johan Santana and Ted Lilly join Willis with five straight seasons.
MR. JUNE: Willis has posted a 14-8 record and 2.94 ERA (193.0IP/63ER) in 29 starts during his career in the month of June. Since 2003, he is 10th among all major league pitchers with a 2.94 ERA during June.
SIDELINED FOR THE FIRST TIME: Willis was on the disabled list April 12-May 21 with a hyperextension of his right knee. It marked the first time Willis was on the disabled list in his major league career.
WHAT A RELIEF: After being reinstated from the disabled list on May 21, Willis was placed in the Tigers bullpen. He appeared in relief for the first time in his major league career on May 23 versus Minnesota, allowing a run in an inning of work.
WELCOME TO THE AMERICAN LEAGUE: During his career, Willis has compiled a 7-5 record and 3.00 ERA (108.0IP/36ER) in 19 appearances (18 starts) against American League clubs.
RECORD AT COMERICA PARK: Willis is making the fourth appearance, third start, of his career at Comerica Park this evening. In his previous three outings, he is 1-0 with a 3.60 ERA (15.0IP/6ER).
LIMITING THE LEFTIES: Willis limited lefthanded batters to a .123 batting average (13x106) with the Marlins during the 2007 season. In his career, lefties are hitting .202 (124x614) with Willis on the mound. He has not surrendered a home run to a lefthanded batter in his last 49 appearances (48 starts; 160 at-bats against lefthanded hitters). Philadelphia’s Ryan Howard was the last lefthanded batter to homer against Willis, doing so on July 29, 2006 at Citizens Bank Park.

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BATTER-PITCHER MATCH-UPS:
WILLIS vs. INDIANS - CAREER (AVG-AB-H-HR):
Blake .167 6-1-0;
Carroll .333 24-8-0;
Garko .000 3-0-0;
Gutierrez .667 3-2-0;
Hafner .000 2-0-0;
Marte .333 3-1-0;
Martinez .667 6-4-1;
Peralta .000 2-0-0;
Sizemore .250 4-1-0.

LEE vs. TIGERS - CAREER (AVG-AB-H-HR):
Cabrera .333 3-1-0;
Granderson .300 20-6-1;
Guillen .250 24-6-1;
Inge .391 23-9-1;
Ordonez .367 30-11-1;
Polanco .211 19-4-0;
Renteria .286 7-2-1;
Rodriguez .375 32-12-0;
Thames .278 18-5-3.

RECENT RESULTS: The Tigers knocked off the Chicago White Sox 5-1 last night, theclub’s fourth win in its last five games. Justin Verlander (3-9) went the distance for the Tigers to earn the win. Marcus Thames belted a three-run home run for Detroit, while Curtis Granderson, Placido Polanco and Edgar Renteria all finished with two hits. The Tigers continue a 10-game homestand this afternoon with the final game of a three-game series against the White Sox. The Dodgers will be in Detroit for a three-game Series this weekend to conclude the homestand.
LOOKING FOR THE LEFTY: The Tigers face lefthanded pitcher Mark Buehrle this afternoon as they battle the White Sox at Comerica Park. Since the start of the 2007 season, the Tigers have compiled a .292 batting average (511x1750) against lefthanded pitchers. Detroit leads the American League during this stretch with a .292 batting average and .473 slugging percentage against lefthanded pitching. Since the start of the 2007 season, the Tigers have posted a 37-20 record in games started by lefthanded pitchers.
ORDONEZ SWINGS HOT STICK AGAINST BUEHRLE: Magglio Ordonez enters today’s game with a .600 batting average (15x25) during his career versus Mark Buehrle. Ordonez is tops among all active major league players with a minimum of 25 plate appearances against Buehrle with a .600 batting average.
GUILLEN GOING GREAT AGAINST SOX: Carlos Guillen is hitting .331 (115x347) with 17 doubles, nine triples, nine home runs and 54 RBI in 98 games during his career against the White Sox. He is fourth among all active major league players with a .331 batting average, while he is sixth with a .403 on-base percentage.
MAGGS MASHES AGAINST OLD ‘MATES: Magglio Ordonez enters the game today against his old team, the Chicago White Sox, with a .322 batting average (66x205) in 54 games versus the club. He has collected 13 doubles, six home runs and 31 RBI during his career against the White Sox. Ordonez is eighth among all active major league players with a .322 batting average against the club.
HITTING AT HOME: The Tigers are third among all American League clubs with a .290 batting average (316x1091) in 32 games at home this season. Magglio Ordonez is tied for third in the league with a .371 batting average (46x124) at home, while Carlos Guillen is seventh with a .358 batting average (38x106) at home.
POLANCO’S PRODUCTION: Placido Polanco is batting .353 (60x170) with 27 runs scored, 14 doubles, two home runs and 14 RBI over his last 41 games dating to April 25. Polanco is tied for the lead in the American League with 14 doubles during the stretch, while he is second with 60 hits and third with a .353 batting average.
ORDONEZ ON THE OFFENSIVE: Magglio Ordonez is batting .329 (57x173) with 26 runs scored, 11 doubles, seven home runs and 33 RBI over his last 46 games dating back to April 21. He is sixth in the American League with 33 RBI during that stretch, while he is seventh with a .329 batting average and 10th with 57 hits. Ordonez collected his 10th multi-RBI game of the season on June 1 at Seattle and the Tigers improved to 10-0 when he drives in multiple runs.
HAPPY AT HOME: In 94 games at Comerica Park dating back to May 10, 2007, Magglio Ordonez is hitting .392 (139x355) with 74 runs scored, 33 doubles, 22 home runs and 85 RBI. He has reached base safely via a hit or walk in 84 of the games.
MINER ON A MISSION: Zach Miner is 3-2 with a 1.96 ERA (23.0IP/5ER) over his last 16 outings dating back to April 24. He has limited opponents to a .190 batting average (16x84) during the stretch.
REHAB RUNDOWN: Righthanded pitchers Fernando Rodney and Joel Zumaya are both currently pitching as part of injury rehab assignments:
• Rodney was assigned to Triple A Toledo on June 3 and he has appeared in two games with the Mud Hens. He has earned one win in his three outings, while he has fanned five batters and allowed four runs in 3.1 innings pitched.
• Zumaya was assigned to Single A Lakeland on June 3 and he appeared in two games with the Flying Tigers. He fanned two batters in three scoreless innings of relief with Lakeland, before having his rehab assignment transferred to Triple A Toledo on Sunday. He has appeared in two games with Toledo, allowing two runs (one earned) in two innings.
INJURY UPDATE: RHP Jeremy Bonderman (thoracic outlet compression syndrome, 15-day DL on June 7), RHP Fernando Rodney (right shoulder tendinitis, 15-day DL on March 30), INF Ramon Santiago (separated left shoulder, 15-day DL on June 5), OF Gary Sheffield (left oblique strain, 15-day DL on May 27), OF Clete Thomas (sprained right ankle, 15-day DL on June 4), C Vance Wilson (right elbow surgery recovery, 15-day DL on March 30), RHP Joel Zumaya (right shoulder surgery recovery, 15-day DL on March 30).

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THE READ ON ROGERS: Rogers is making his 14th start of the season for the Tigers this afternoon against the Chicago White Sox.
MOVING UP THE ALL-TIME LEFTY LIST: Rogers is currently in 21st place on the all-time win list among lefthanded pitchers with his 214 career victories. With two more wins, he will match Wilbur Cooper for 20th
on that all-time list.
AMONG THE ACTIVE LEADERS: Rogers enters his start this afternoon against the White Sox among the active major league pitching leaders in numerous categories. He is seventh with 214 wins and 457 games
started, while he is eighth with 3202.2 innings pitched and 11th with 1929 strikeouts.
TERRIFIC IN HIS LAST THREE: Rogers has compiled a 1.29 ERA (21.0IP/3ER) over his last three starts, despite not factoring in the decision in any of the outings. Opponents are hitting .216 (16x74) with Rogers on the mound during the stretch.
TROUBLING THOME: Rogers has limited Jim Thome to a .184 batting average (9x49) when the two have matched up. Thome’s .184 batting average is fourth-lowest against any active major league pitcher he has 30-or-more plate appearances against.
MR. JUNE: Since joining the Tigers in 2006, Rogers is 5-0 with a 2.74 ERA (65.2IP/20ER) in 10 starts during June. He is sixth in the American League with a 2.74 ERA in June during the stretch.
RECORD AT COMERICA PARK: Rogers is making his 37th career appearance, 34th start, this afternoon at Comerica Park. In his previous 36 outings, he is 15-7 with a 3.53 ERA (206.1IP/81ER).
NO SWIPING: Tony Pena's stolen base against Rogers in the third inning on May 15 at Kansas City was the first time an opponent attempted to steal against Rogers since Toronto's Gregg Zaun was caught stealing in the fourth inning on September 28, 2006. It was a stretch of 20 appearances (19 starts) without an opponent even attempting to steal against him. The last
successful stolen base attempt against Rogers was by Boston's Coco Crisp on June 2, 2006 when he stole second base in the fourth inning. It was a stretch of 41 appearances (40 starts) without a stolen base against Rogers. During his Tigers career, opponents have been successful in two of the nine stolen base attempts (22.2 percent) and he has picked off five runners.
TOUGH ON THE LEFTIES: Lefthanded batters are hitting .219 (71x324) against Rogers since he joined the Tigers in 2006.

WINNING WAYS: Rogers is seventh among all active lefthanded pitchers with a .593 winning percentage during his major league career. The following is a list of the top 10 active lefthanded pitchers in the majors:

Pitcher - W - L - %
Johan Santana 100 47 .680
Randy Johnson 288 153 .653
Andy Pettitte 206 118 .636
Mark Mulder 103 60 .632
Tom Glavine 305 202 .602
C.C. Sabathia 104 71 .594
Kenny Rogers 214 147 .593
Mike Hampton 138 101 .577
Mark Buehrle 110 81 .576
Barry Zito 115 85 .575

PICKING-OFF THE OPPOSITION: Rogers picked off Wilson Betemit in his start against the New York Yankees on May 9 to move into the top spot in major league history with 92 pitcher pick-offs since the statistic started being kept in 1974. The following are the top five pitchers in major league history in pitcher pick-offs:

Pitcher - Pick-offs
Kenny Rogers 92
Mark Langston 91
Andy Pettitte 86
Greg Swindell 77
Randy Johnson 77

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ROGERS’ GAME HIGHS:
LAST CG: May 14, 2005 at Minnesota.
LAST SHUTOUT: May 14, 2005 at Minnesota.
STRIKEOUT HIGH - 2008: 6 - May 4, 2008 at Minnesota.
STRIKEOUT HIGH - CAREER: 10 (twice) - last, September 1, 1999 vs. Pittsburgh.
WALK HIGH - 2008: 4 (four times) - last, June 2, 2008 at Oakland.
WALK HIGH - CAREER: 8 - September 24, 2000 vs. Anaheim.
LOW-HIT GAME - 2008: 3 - April 18, 2008 at Toronto.
LOW-HIT GAME - CAREER (CG): 0 - July 28, 1994 vs. California.

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ROGERS VS. WHITE SOX:
LIFETIME: 16-10, 4.45 ERA, 56 G, 32 GS, 1 CG, 228.2 IP, 231 H, 124 R, 113 ER, 81 BB, 107 SO.
IN 2008: 0-1, 15.75 ERA, 1 G, 1 GS, 0 CG, 4.0 IP, 7 H, 7 R, 7 ER, 4 BB, 1 SO.
LAST START/LOSS: April 13, 2008 at Chicago, 11-0 (4.0,7,7,7,4,1).
LAST WIN: September 18, 2006 at Chicago, 8-2 (6.0,4,0,0,4,2).

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BATTER-PITCHER MATCH-UPS:
ROGERS vs. WHITE SOX - CAREER (AVG-AB-H-HR): Anderson .444 9-4-0; Cabrera .273 11-3-0; Crede .250 20-5-1;
Dye .234 47-11-1; Hall .333 21-7-0; Konerko .326 46-15-3; Ozuna .125 8-1-0; Pierzynski .091 11-1-0; Quentin .000 2-0-0;
Swisher .294 17-5-0; Thome .184 49-9-1; Uribe .281 32-9-1.
BUEHRLE vs. TIGERS - CAREER (AVG-AB-H-HR): Cabrera .000 3-0-0; Clevlen .667 3-2-0; Granderson .294 17-5-1;
Guillen .289 45-13-0; Inge .260 50-13-1; Ordonez .600 25-15-2; Polanco .400 25-10-0; Raburn .143 7-1-0; Renteria .500 10-5-0;
Rodriguez .200 35-7-0; Thames .238 21-5-1.

RECENT RESULTS: The Tigers won their sixth straight game yesterday afternoon, completing a three-game sweep of the Los Angeles Dodgers at Comerica Park with a 5-4 win. Nate Robertson (5-6) blanked the Dodgers on four hits over six innings of work to earn the victory. Todd Jones picked up his 12th save of the season. Marcus Thames and Brandon Inge both homered for the Tigers, while Carlos Guillen finished with three hits and an RBI. The Tigers begin a six-game road trip this evening with the first game of a three-game series at San Francisco. Following an off day on Thursday, the club concludes the the trip with a three-game series at San Diego beginning on Friday night.
RODNEY REINSTATED FROM DISABLED LIST: The Tigers today recalled the injury rehab assignment of righthanded pitcher Fernando Rodney from Triple A Toledo and reinstated him from the disabled list. Additionally, the contract of righthanded pitcher Aquilino Lopez was optioned to Toledo following yesterday’s game versus the Los Angeles Dodgers.
INTERLEAGUE HAPPENINGS: Tonight’s contest against the Giants is Detroit’s seventh game of interleague play in 2008. Since interleague play was started in 1997, the Tigers have compiled a 104-95 record. The Tigers are 45-30 in interleague games at Comerica Park. The Tigers are 4-2 during interleague action in 2008. Since the start of the 2006 season, Detroit has compiled a 33-9 record during interleague action.
INTERLEAGUE LEADERS: Four Tigers players are among the top 16 active major league players in batting average during interleague play: Magglio Ordonez is second with a .344 batting average (185x538), Placido Polanco is 13th with a .318 batting average (156x491), Edgar Renteria is 14th with a .317 batting average (209x660) and Ivan Rodriguez is 16th with a .315 batting average (218x691).
IT STARTS WITH PITCHING: Over the club’s last 20 games, Detroit’s starting pitching has combined to post a 3.27 ERA (129.1IP/47ER). During the 20-game stretch, Tigers starters have posted 13 quality starts and limited opponents to a .231 batting average (109x471).
LIMITING THE WALKS: The Tigers issued one walk yesterday versus the Dodgers, marking the fifth straight game the club has limited the opposition to one walk-or-fewer. It the longest such streak by club pitchers since the 1992 Tigers held opponents to one walk-or fewer in five straight games August 24-29.
CABRERA, RENTERIA ENJOY SUCCESS AT AT&T PARK: Miguel Cabrera and Edgar Renteria both have hit well during their careers at AT&T Park. In 16 games at the park, Cabrera is batting .339 (20x59) with three doubles, six home runs and 16 RBI. Renteria is hitting .365 (31x85) in 20 games during his career at AT&T Park, collecting six doubles, three home runs and 13 RBI.
POLANCO’S PRODUCTION: Placido Polanco is batting .355 (65x183) with 28 runs scored, 14 doubles, two home runs and 18 RBI over his last 44 games dating to April 25. Polanco is second in the American League with 65 hits during the stretch, while he is third with a .355 batting average and tied for fourth with 14 doubles.
RENTERIA CLOSING IN ON 2,000 HITS: After collecting two hits yesterday versus the Dodgers, Edgar Renteria enters tonight’s game one hit shy of 2,000 in his major league career. He would become the first native of Colombia to reach the 2,000-hit plateau.
MARCUS MASHES LONGBALLS: Marcus Thames belted a solo home run yesterday versus the Dodgers and the Tigers improved to 9-0 this season when he homered. He is fourth among all American League players with at least 1,000 plate appearances since the start of the 2004 season with a home run once every 14.06 at-bats (998AB/71HR). During his Tigers career, the club has posted a 48-18 record when Thames hits a home run.
SHEFFIELD SET TO BEGIN INJURY REHAB ASSIGNMENT: Outfielder Gary Sheffield is scheduled to begin an injury rehab assignment with Single A Lakeland this evening. He has been sidelined since May 27 with a left oblique strain.
REHAB RUNDOWN: Righthanded pitcher Joel Zumaya is currently pitching as part of an injury rehab assignment, while outfielder Clete Thomas began his injury rehab assignment on Friday:
• Zumaya was assigned to Single A Lakeland on June 3 and he appeared in two games with the Flying Tigers. He fanned two batters in three scoreless innings of relief with Lakeland, before having his rehab assignment transferred to Triple A Toledo on June 8. He has appeared in three games with Toledo, allowing two runs (one earned) in three innings.
• Thomas has collected one hit in 10 at-bats during his first three games with Triple A Toledo.
INJURY UPDATE:
RHP Jeremy Bonderman (thoracic outlet compression syndrome, 15-day DL on June 7),
INF Ramon Santiago (separated left shoulder, 15-day DL on June 5),
OF Gary Sheffield (left oblique strain, 15-day DL on May 27),
OF Clete Thomas (sprained right ankle, 15-day DL on June 4),
C Vance Wilson (right elbow surgery recovery, 15-day DL on March 30),
RHP Joel Zumaya (right shoulder surgery recovery, 15-day DL on March 30).

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JUSTIN’S CASE: In his third full season at the major league level, Verlander will make his 15th start of the season this evening against the San Francisco Giants.
SOLID IN HIS LAST SIX: Verlander has compiled a 2.57 ERA (42.0IP/12ER) over his last six starts, despite posting a 2-3 record. He has limited opponents to a .211 batting average (32x152) during the stretch. Verlander has recorded a quality start in five of the six outings.
INTERLEAGUE ACTION: Verlander is making his eighth start during interleague play this evening against the Giants. He is 7-0 with a 1.99 ERA
(49.2IP/11ER) in his previous seven starts. Since the start of the 2006 season, Verlander is second among all major league pitchers with seven wins during interleague play, while he is fourth with a 1.99 ERA.
LOOKING FOR A ROAD WIN: Verlander enters his start tonight at San Francisco looking for his first victory on the road since September 1, 2007 at Oakland. In seven starts on the road since then, he is 0-6 with a 6.09 ERA (44.1IP/30ER).
AT THE PLATE: Verlander is hitless in five at-bats at the plate during interleague action. He has collected two sacrifice bunts and struck out three times during his career.
SHORT ON SUPPORT: In his 14 starts this season, Verlander has received 3.26 runs per nine innings of support, second-lowest in the American League. Over his first two full major league seasons (2006-07), Verlander was tops among all major league pitchers with 7.08 runs per nine innings of support.
ROUGH ON THE RIGHTIES: Verlander has limited righthanded batters to a .220 batting average (42x191) through his first 14 starts this season. During his career, righthanded hitters are batting .240 (224x935) with Verlander on the mound.
RECORD AT AT&T PARK: Verlander is making his first career start during the regular season at AT&T Park this evening. He did pitch an inning for the American League during Major League Baseball’s All-Star Game at AT&T Park in 2007.
MORE PITCHES: Verlander enters his start tonight tops among all American League pitchers with 108.1 pitches per game. In his first two seasons (2006-07), he averaged 102.0 pitches per game, 11th-most in the league.
PICKED OFF: Since the start of the 2006 season, Verlander has picked off 11 baserunners. He is second in the American League during this stretch, trailing Chicago’s Mark Buehrle with 17.
QUALITY OUTINGS: Verlander has posted a quality start in 45 of his 78 starts at the major league level during his career. He has worked six-or-more innings in 56 of his starts during his career.

VERLANDER’S GAME HIGHS:
LAST CG: June 11, 2008 vs. Chicago White Sox.
LAST SHUTOUT: June 12, 2007 vs. Milwaukee.
STRIKEOUT HIGH - 2008: 8 - June 6, 2008 vs. Cleveland.
STRIKEOUT HIGH - CAREER: 12 - June 12, 2007 vs. Milwaukee.
WALK HIGH - 2008: 4 (five times) - last, June 6, 2008 vs. Cleveland.
WALK HIGH - CAREER: 7 - August 16, 2006 at Boston.
LOW-HIT GAME - 2008 (CG): 4 - June 11, 2008 vs. Chicago White Sox.
LOW-HIT GAME - CAREER (CG): 0 - June 12, 2007 vs. Milwaukee.

VERLANDER VS. GIANTS:
LIFETIME: Is making his first career start versus the Giants.

BATTER-PITCHER MATCH-UPS:
VERLANDER vs. GIANTS - CAREER (AVG-AB-H-HR): Rowand .500 2-1-0.
LINCECUM vs. TIGERS - CAREER (AVG-AB-H-HR): Has yet to face a Tigers batter.

RECENT RESULTS: The Tigers suffered an 8-6 loss to the San Francisco Giants last night,
snapping the club’s six-game winning streak. Freddy Dolsi (0-2) took the loss for the
Tigers after allowing two runs in relief. Marcus Thames belted two home runs and drove in
three runs for Detroit, while Ivan Rodriguez added three hits. Curtis Granderson singled
and drove in two runs for the Tigers. The Tigers continue a six-game road trip this
evening with the second game of a three-game series at San Francisco. Following an off
day on Thursday, the club concludes the the trip with a three-game series at San Diego
beginning on Friday night.
INTERLEAGUE HAPPENINGS: Tonight’s contest against the Giants is Detroit’s eighth
game of interleague play in 2008. Since interleague play was started in 1997, the Tigers
have compiled a 104-96 record. The Tigers are 45-30 in interleague games at Comerica
Park. The Tigers are 4-3 during interleague action in 2008. Since the start of the 2006
season, Detroit has compiled a 33-10 record during interleague action.
INTERLEAGUE LEADERS: Four Tigers players are among the top 16 active major league
players in batting average during interleague play: Magglio Ordonez is second with a .341
batting average (185x542), Ivan Rodriguez is 13th with a .318 batting average (221x694),
Placido Polanco is 14th with a .317 batting average (157x495) and Edgar Renteria is 16th
with a .316 batting average (209x661).
IT STARTS WITH PITCHING: Over the club’s last 21 games, Detroit’s starting pitching
has combined to post a 3.26 ERA (135.1IP/49ER). During the 21-game stretch, Tigers
starters have posted 14 quality starts and limited opponents to a .230 batting average
(114x495).
CABRERA, RENTERIA ENJOY SUCCESS AT AT&T PARK: Miguel Cabrera and Edgar
Renteria both have hit well during their careers at AT&T Park. In 17 games at the park,
Cabrera is batting .333 (21x63) with three doubles, six home runs and 16 RBI. Renteria is
hitting .360 (31x86) in 21 games during his career at AT&T Park, collecting six doubles, three
home runs and 14 RBI.
POLANCO’S PRODUCTION: Placido Polanco is batting .353 (66x187) with 28 runs scored,
14 doubles, two home runs and 18 RBI over his last 45 games dating back to April 25.
Polanco is tied for the lead in the American League with 66 hits during the stretch, while he
is third with a .353 batting average and tied for fourth with 14 doubles.
RENTERIA CLOSING IN ON 2,000 HITS: After collecting two hits on Sunday versus the
Dodgers, Edgar Renteria enters tonight’s game one hit shy of 2,000 in his major league
career. He would become the first native of Colombia to reach the 2,000-hit plateau.
MARCUS MASHES LONGBALLS: Marcus Thames belted two home runs last night at San
Francisco and he has now homered in each of his last four games. He is third among all
American League players with at least 1,000 plate appearances since the start of the 2004
season with a home run once every 13.73 at-bats (1002AB/73HR). During his Tigers career,
the club has posted a 48-19 record when Thames hits a home run (including 9-1 in 2008).
MORE MARCUS: Marcus Thames is the first Tigers player to belt a home run in four straight
games since Magglio Ordonez did so May 5-9, 2006. The Tigers record for most consecutive
games with a home run is five, held by Rudy York (1937), Hank Greenberg (1940), Vic Wertz
(1950) and Willie Horton (1969). Thames has connected for seven home runs over his last
nine games dating back to June 7. He is tops among all major league players with the seven
home runs during that stretch.
REHAB RUNDOWN: Righthanded pitcher Joel Zumaya and outfielders Gary Sheffield and
Clete Thomas are all currently playing with Tigers minor league affiliates as part of injury
rehab assignments:
• Zumaya was assigned to Single A Lakeland on June 3 and he appeared in two games with
the Flying Tigers. He fanned two batters in three scoreless innings of relief with Lakeland,
before having his rehab assignment transferred to Triple A Toledo on June 8. He has
appeared in four games with Toledo, allowing three runs (one earned) in four innings.
• Sheffield was assigned to Single A Lakeland yesterday and he was hitless in two at-bats
with a walk in his first game with the Flying Tigers.
• Thomas was assigned to Triple A Toledo on June 13 and he is hitting .286 (4x14) with a
double, home run and four RBI in his first four games with the Mud Hens.
CHRISTENSEN TABBED EL PITCHER OF THE WEEK: Double A Erie lefthanded pitcher
Danny Christensen was selected the Eastern League Pitcher of the Week for June 9-15. In
two starts during the week, Christensen posted a 1-0 record, 1.29 ERA (14.0IP/2ER) and 12
strikeouts.
INJURY UPDATE:
RHP Jeremy Bonderman (thoracic outlet compression syndrome, 15-day DL on June 7),
INF Ramon Santiago (separated left shoulder, 15-day DL on June 5),
OF Gary Sheffield (left oblique strain, 15-day DL on May 27),
OF Clete Thomas (sprained right ankle, 15-day DL on June 4),
C Vance Wilson (right elbow surgery recovery, 15-day DL on March 30),
RHP Joel Zumaya (right shoulder surgery recovery, 15-day DL on March
30).

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THE READ ON ROGERS: Rogers is making his 15th start of the season for the Tigers this evening against the San Francisco Giants.
FINE IN HIS LAST FOUR: Rogers has compiled a 0.93 ERA (29.0IP/3ER) over his last four starts, despite not factoring in the decision in any of the outings. Opponents are hitting .200 (20x100) with Rogers on the mound during the stretch.
MR. JUNE: Since joining the Tigers in 2006, Rogers is 5-0 with a 2.44 ERA (73.2IP/20ER) in 11 starts during June. He is second in the American League with a 2.44 ERA in June during the stretch.
INTERLEAGUE ACTION: Rogers is making his 39th appearance, 38th start, during interleague play this evening. In his previous 38 outings, he is 15-6 with a 3.96 ERA (236.1IP/104ER).
MOVING UP THE ALL-TIME LEFTY LIST: Rogers is currently in 21st place on the all-time win list among lefthanded pitchers with his 214 career victories. With two more wins, he will match Wilbur Cooper for 20th on that all-time list.
AMONG THE ACTIVE LEADERS: Rogers enters his start this evening against the Giants among the active major league pitching leaders in numerous categories. He is seventh with 214 wins and 458 games started, while he is eighth with 3210.2 innings pitched and 11th with 1930 strikeouts.
AT THE PLATE: Rogers is hitting .138 (9x65) with a double, triple and four RBI during his major league career. He has collected four sacrifice bunts, while walking four times and fanning 24 times. Rogers’ last hit came on June 18, 2006 at Wrigley Field against the Cubs, a double in the eighth inning off Roberto Novoa.
RECORD AT AT&T PARK: Rogers is making his first career start at AT&T Park this evening. AT&T Park will mark the 38th different park Rogers has pitched in during his major league career.
NO SWIPING: Tony Pena's stolen base against Rogers in the third inning on May 15 at Kansas City was the first time an opponent attempted to steal against Rogers since Toronto's Gregg Zaun was caught stealing in the fourth inning on September 28, 2006. It was a stretch of 20 appearances (19 starts) without an opponent even attempting to steal against him. The last
successful stolen base attempt against Rogers was by Boston's Coco Crisp on June 2, 2006 when he stole second base in the fourth inning. It was a stretch of 41 appearances (40 starts) without a stolen base against Rogers. During his Tigers career, opponents have been successful in two of the nine stolen base attempts (22.2 percent) and he has picked off five runners.

RECENT RESULTS: The Tigers knocked off San Francisco 7-2 on Wednesday afternoon. Armando Galarraga (7-2) won his fourth straight decision for the Tigers, surrendering two unearned runs in six innings of work. Placido Polanco led the Tigers with four hits and two RBI, while Carlos Guillen added a single, double and two RBI. The Tigers continue a six game
road trip this evening with the first game of a three-game series at San Diego. Following an off day on Monday, the club begins a six-game homestand against St. Louis and Colorado on Tuesday.

TIGERS ANNOUNCE ROSTER MOVES: The Tigers today recalled the injury rehab assignments of righthanded pitcher Joel Zumaya and outfielder Clete Thomas from Triple A Toledo and reinstated both players from the disabled list. Additonally, the Tigers today designated the contract of righthanded pitcher Denny Bautista for assignment. Outfielder Brent Clevlen’s contract was optioned to Toledo following Wednesday’s game at San Francisco.

WINNING WAYS: The Tigers have won 10 of the club’s last 12 games. During the 12-game stretch, the club is hitting .308 (125x406) with 68 runs scored, 18 doubles, four triples and 16 home runs. Tigers pitchers have compiled a 3.03 ERA (107.0IP/36ER) during the 12-game stretch.

RETURNING TO SAN DIEGO: The Tigers return to San Diego for the third time in franchise history tonight, marking the first time the club has played at PETCO Park. Detroit won both games the club played in San Diego during the 1984 World Series, before returning to San Diego and taking two of three games from the Padres in 2003.

INTERLEAGUE HAPPENINGS: Tonight’s contest against the Padres is Detroit’s 10th game of interleague play in 2008. Since interleague play was started in 1997, the Tigers have compiled a 106-96 record. The Tigers are 45-30 in interleague games at Comerica Park. The Tigers are 6-3 during interleague action in 2008. Since the start of the 2006 season, Detroit has compiled a 35-10 record during interleague action.

INTERLEAGUE LEADERS: Four Tigers players are among the top 17 active major league players in batting average during interleague play: Magglio Ordonez is second with a .339 batting average (186x549), Placido Polanco is 10th with a .323 batting average (163x504), Ivan Rodriguez is 14th with a .317 batting average (223x703) and Edgar Renteria is 17th with a .314 batting average (210x668).

IT STARTS WITH PITCHING: Detroit’s starting pitching has combined to post a 3.03 ERA (148.1IP/50ER) over the last 23 games. During the 23-game stretch, Tigers starters have posted 16 quality starts and limited opponents to a .232 batting average (126x542).

CABRERA SWINGS HOT STICK AGAINST MADDUX: Miguel Cabrera enters tonight’s game with a .421 batting average (8x19) during his career versus Greg Maddux. Cabrera is fourth among all active major league players with a minimum of 20 plate appearances against Maddux with a .421 batting average.

POLANCO’S PRODUCTION: Placido Polanco is batting .367 (72x196) with 31 runs scored, 15 doubles, two home runs and 21 RBI over his last 47 games dating back to April 25. Polanco is leading the American League with a .367 batting average and 72 hits during the stretch, while he is tied for
fifth with 15 doubles.

MARCUS MASHES LONGBALLS: Marcus Thames belted a solo home run on Tuesday night at San Francisco and he has connected for eight home runs over his last 11 games dating back to June 7. Thames is tops among all major league players with eight home runs during that stretch. He is third among all American League players with at least 1,000 plate appearances since the start of the 2004 season with a home run once every 13.64 at-bats (1009AB/74HR). During his Tigers career, the club has posted a 49-19 record when Thames hits a home run (including 10-1 in 2008).

MORE ABOUT MARCUS: Following his solo home run on Tuesday night at San Francisco, each of Marcus Thames’ last eight hits have been home runs. According to the Elias Sports Bureau, it is the longest such streak by a major league player since St. Louis’ Mark McGwire posted a stretch of 11 straight home runs during the 2001 season.

POLANCO’S FOUR-HIT PERFORMANCE:Placido Polanco collected four hits on Wednesday at San Francisco, the 14th time he has collected four-or-more hits since joining the Tigers in 2005. He is tops among all American League players with 14 four-or-more hit games during that stretch.

SHEFFIELD’S INJURY REHAB ASSIGNMENT: Gary Sheffield was assigned to Single A Lakeland as part of an injury rehab assignment on Monday. In four games with the Flying Tigers, he is hitting .100 (1x10) with a home run, an RBI and five walks. Sheffield has been sidelined since May 27 with a left oblique strain.
INJURY UPDATE:
RHP Jeremy Bonderman (thoracic outlet compression syndrome, 15-day DL on June 7),
INF Ramon Santiago (separated left shoulder, 15-day DL on June 5),
OF Gary Sheffield (left oblique strain, 15-day DL on May 27),
C Vance Wilson (right elbow surgery recovery, 15-day DL on March 30).

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EYE ON EDDIE: Bonine will make his second major league start this evening against the San Diego after having his contract purchased from Triple A Toledo on June 14.

WINNING HIS DEBUT: Bonine earned the win in his major league debut on June 14 versus the Los Angeles Dodgers at Comerica Park. He became the
first Tigers starting pitcher to win his major league debut since Andy Van Hekken on September 3, 2002 versus Cleveland.

INTERLEAGUE ACTION: Bonine is making his second career start during interleague play this evening at San Diego. He won his previous outing, allowing six runs in 5.1 innings of work.

AMONG THE IL LEADERS: At the time of his promotion to Detroit, Bonine was tied for the lead in the International League with nine wins.

EIGHT STRAIGHT WINS: Bonine started the season with Toledo by winning his first eight decisions April 7-May 15. The eight game winning streak is the second-longest such streak in the International League in 2008.

WINNING WAYS: In his last two seasons at the minor league level, Bonine has combined to compile a 24-7 record. The 24 wins he has posted over the last two seasons are more than any other Tigers minor leaguer.

AT THE PLATE: Bonine will be seeing his first plate appearances at the major league level tonight.

RECORD AT PETCO PARK: Bonine is making his first career start at PETCO Park this evening.

LOOKING BACK AT 2007: Bonine was selected Erie’s Pitcher of the Year after he finished second in the Eastern League with 14 wins and third with 154.2 innings pitched. Additionally, he led all league starters with 1.34 walks per nine innings, while he was second with 11.29 baserunners per nine innings.

MISCELLANEOUS NOTES: Bonine was selected by the Tigers from San Diego in the minor league phase of the Rule 5 Draft on December 8, 2005. He was originally signed by the Padres after the club selected him in the 23rd round of the 2003 MLB First-Year Player Draft.

BATTER-PITCHER MATCH-UPS:
BONINE vs. PADRES - CAREER (AVG-AB-H-HR): Has yet to face a Padres batter.
MADDUX vs. TIGERS - CAREER (AVG-AB-H-HR): Cabrera .421 19-8-1; Inge .000 2-0-0; Polanco .286 28-8-0; Renteria .313 48-15-1; Rodriguez .250 8-2-2.

RECENT RESULTS: The Tigers suffered a 6-2 loss to the San Diego Padres at PETCO Park last night. Fernando Rodney (0-1) allowed two runs in relief to take the loss. Eddie Bonine started for Detroit, but he did not factor in the decision after limiting San Diego to two runs in seven innings of work. Curtis Granderson led the Tigers with three hits, including a solo home run. Placido Polanco belted a solo home run, while Marcus Thames added a double. The Tigers continue a six-game road trip this evening with the second game of a three-game series at San Diego. Following an off day on Monday, the club begins a six-game homestand against St. Louis and Colorado on Tuesday.
WINNING WAYS: The Tigers have won 10 of the club’s last 13 games. During the 13-game stretch, the club is hitting .299 (131x438) with 70 runs scored, 19 doubles, four triples and 18 home runs. Tigers pitchers have compiled a 3.29 ERA (115.0IP/42ER) during the 13-game stretch.
RETURNING TO SAN DIEGO: The Tigers have returned to San Diego for the third time in franchise history, playing the club’s first game at PETCO Park last night. Detroit won both games the club played in San Diego during the 1984 World Series, before returning to San Diego and taking two of three games from the Padres in 2003.
INTERLEAGUE HAPPENINGS: Tonight’s contest against the Padres is Detroit’s 11th game of interleague play in 2008. Since interleague play was started in 1997, the Tigers have compiled a 106-97 record. The Tigers are 45-30 in interleague games at Comerica Park. The Tigers are 6-4 during interleague action in 2008. Since the start of the 2006 season, Detroit has compiled a 35-11 record during interleague action.
INTERLEAGUE LEADERS: Four Tigers players are among the top 17 active major league players in batting average during interleague play: Magglio Ordonez is second with a .336 batting average (186x553), Placido Polanco is 10th with a .323 batting average (164x508), Ivan Rodriguez is 14th with a .316 batting average (223x705) and Edgar Renteria is 17th with a .314 batting average (211x671).
IT STARTS WITH PITCHING: Detroit’s starting pitching has combined to post a 3.01 ERA (155.1IP/52ER) over the last 24 games. During the 24-game stretch, Tigers starters have posted 17 quality starts and limited opponents to a .233 batting average (132x566).
POLANCO’S PRODUCTION: Placido Polanco is batting .365 (73x200) with 32 runs scored, 15 doubles, three home runs and 22 RBI over his last 48 games dating back to April 25. Polanco is leading the American League with a .365 batting average and 73 hits during the stretch, while he is seventh with 15 doubles.
LEADING OFF IN GRAND STYLE: Curtis Granderson connected for his 16th career lead-off home run last night against the San Diego Padres. Granderson is in third place all-time in Tigers history with the 16 career lead-off home runs. Only Lou Whitaker (23) and Dick McAuliffe (19) have homered to lead off a game more times than Granderson in Tigers history.
All 16 of his lead-off home runs have come since the start of the 2006 season and according to the Elias Sports Bureau, he trails only Alfonso Soriano (24) and Hanley Ramirez (20) in the majors during that stretch.
POLANCO PACKS A PUNCH AGAINST PADRES: Placido Polanco enters tonight’s game at San Diego with a .342 batting average (50x146) in 40 games during his career against the Padres. Polanco is second among all active major league players with the .342 batting average versus San Diego.
GOING YARD AGAINST BAEK: Curtis Granderson has homered twice against Cha Seung Baek, the only major league player with multiple home runs off Baek.
GOING SOLO: Placido Polanco connected for a solo home run last night at San Diego. Dating back to the start of the 2007 season, all 12 of Polanco’s home runs have come with the bases empty.
MARCUS MASHES LONGBALLS: Marcus Thames belted a solo home run on Tuesday night at San Francisco and he has connected for eight home runs over his last 12 games dating back to June 7. Thames is tops among all major league players with eight home runs during that stretch. He is third among all American League players with at least 1,000 plate appearances since the start of the 2004 season with a home run once every 13.69 at-bats (1013AB/74HR). During his Tigers career, the club has posted a 49-19 record when Thames hits a home run (including 10-1 in 2008).
SHEFFIELD’S INJURY REHAB ASSIGNMENT: Gary Sheffield was assigned to Single A Lakeland as part of an injury rehab assignment on Monday. In four games with the Flying Tigers, he is hitting .100 (1x10) with a home run, an RBI and five walks. Sheffield has been sidelined since May 27 with a left oblique strain.
INJURY UPDATE:
RHP Jeremy Bonderman (thoracic outlet compression syndrome, 15-day DL on June 7),
INF Ramon Santiago (separated left shoulder, 15-day DL on June 5),
OF Gary Sheffield (left oblique strain, 15-day DL on May 27),
C Vance Wilson (right elbow surgery recovery, 15-day DL on March 30).

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NOTES ON NATE: In his fifth full season with the Tigers, Robertson makes his 15th start of the season this evening against the San Diego Padres.
LONG-TERM DEAL: Robertson agreed to a three-year contract during the off-season, keeping him in a Tigers uniform through the 2010 season.
MOVING UP THE TIGERS LEFTY LIST: Robertson is making his 149th start as a member of the Detroit Tigers this evening, moving him within 10 starts of tying Ted Gray for seventh place among lefthanded pitchers in franchise history. Robertson is one of only 16 lefthanded pitchers in club history to surpass 100 starts in a Tigers uniform.
WINNING WAYS: Robertson has won four of his last five starts for the Tigers.
INTERLEAGUE ACTION: Robertson is making his 14th career start during interleague play this evening. He has posted a 5-3 record and 2.88 ERA (84.1IP/27ER) in his previous 13 outings.
GOING FOR THREE STRAIGHT: Robertson has won each of his last two starts for the Tigers and he enters his start against the Padres this evening looking to win three straight starts for the first time since he won three straight starts August 20-30, 2004. Robertson last posted a three-game winning streak for the Tigers over a four-start stretch June 11-27, 2006.
TAKING THE BALL EVERY FIFTH DAY: Since the start of the 2004 season, Robertson has started 140 games for the Tigers. During that stretch, he is third among all American League pitchers with the 140 games started. Additionally, Robertson is sixth in the league with 863.2 innings pitched during the stretch.
SOLID SUPPORT: Robertson is fourth in the American League with 6.54 runs per nine innings of support this season.
AT THE PLATE: Robertson is hitting .063 (1x16) with an RBI during his major league career. He has collected one sacrifice bunt, while fanning seven times. Robertson’s lone major hit came on June 21, 2006 at Milwaukee, a run-scoring single in the second inning off Chris Capuano.
LOOKING FOR THE GROUND BALL: Robertson was seventh among American League pitchers with a 1.49 ground ball/fly ball ratio (1199 ground ball outs/807 fly ball outs) from 2004-07. He enters his start this evening against the Padres with a 0.99 ground ball/fly ball ratio (106 ground ball outs/107 fly ball outs) this season, 10th-lowest among league pitchers.
RECORD AT PETCO PARK: Robertson is making his first career start at PETCO Park this evening.
FIRST TIME SUCCESS: Robertson has limited the opposition to a .248 batting average (29x117) the first time through the lineup in 2008. Starting the second time around, opponents are hitting .323 (71x220) against him.
LIMITING THE LEFTIES: During his major league career, Robertson has limited lefties to a .257 batting average (213x828). During that stretch, he has held lefties to a .305 on-base percentage and .362 slugging percentage.

RECENT RESULTS: The Tigers knocked off the San Diego Padres 7-5 last night. Nate
Robertson (6-6) earned the win for Detroit, allowing five runs in six innings of work. Todd
Jones worked a scoreless ninth inning for his 13th save of the season. Marcus Thames
belted a two-run home run for Detroit, while Magglio Ordonez added a single , home run
and two RBI. Curtis Granderson and Carlos Guillen both finished with two hits for the
Tigers. The Tigers conclude a six-game road trip this afternoon with the final game of a
three-game series at San Diego. Following an off day tomorrow, the club begins a sixgame
homestand against St. Louis and Colorado on Tuesday.
WINNING WAYS: The Tigers have won 11 of the club’s last 14 games. During the 14-
game stretch, the club is hitting .299 (141x471) with 77 runs scored, 21 doubles, four
triples and 20 home runs. Tigers pitchers have compiled a 3.41 ERA (124.0IP/47ER) during
the 14-game stretch.
RETURNING TO SAN DIEGO: The Tigers have returned to San Diego for the third time in
franchise history, playing the club’s first game at PETCO Park on Friday night. Detroit won
both games the club played in San Diego during the 1984 World Series, before returning to
San Diego and taking two of three games from the Padres in 2003.
INTERLEAGUE HAPPENINGS: Today’s contest against the Padres is Detroit’s 12th game
of interleague play in 2008. Since interleague play was started in 1997, the Tigers have
compiled a 107-97 record. The Tigers are 45-30 in interleague games at Comerica Park.
The Tigers are 7-4 during interleague action in 2008. Since the start of the 2006 season,
Detroit has compiled a 36-11 record during interleague action.
INTERLEAGUE LEADERS: Four Tigers players are among the top 19 active major league
players in batting average during interleague play: Magglio Ordonez is second with a .338
batting average (188x556), Placido Polanco is 13th with a .321 batting average (164x511),
Ivan Rodriguez is 17th with a .316 batting average (223x705) and Edgar Renteria is 19th
with a .313 batting average (211x675).
IT STARTS WITH PITCHING: Detroit’s starting pitching has combined to post a 3.18 ERA
(161.1IP/57ER) over the last 25 games. During the 25-game stretch, Tigers starters have
posted 17 quality starts and limited opponents to a .236 batting average (139x590).
POLANCO’S PRODUCTION: Placido Polanco is batting .360 (73x203) with 32 runs scored,
15 doubles, three home runs and 23 RBI over his last 49 games dating back to April 25.
Polanco is leading the American League with 73 hits during the stretch, while he is second
with a .360 batting average and seventh with 15 doubles.
POLANCO PACKS A PUNCH AGAINST PADRES: Placido Polanco enters today’s game at
San Diego with a .336 batting average (50x149) in 41 games during his career against the
Padres. Polanco is third among all active major league players with the .336 batting average
versus San Diego.
CABRERA SWINGS HOT STICK AGAINST WOLF: Miguel Cabrera enters today’s game
with a .526 batting average (10x19) during his career versus Randy Wolf. Cabrera is tops
among all active major league players with a minimum of 20 plate appearances against
Wolf with a .526 batting average and 1.053 slugging percentage.
GRANDY GETS GOING: Curtis Granderson finished with two hits last night at San Diego
to extend his hitting streak to 10 games. He is batting .385 (15x39) during the hitting
streak, collecting three doubles, a triple, home run and five RBI. The Tigers are 8-2 in the
10 games Granderson has hit safely in.
MARCUS MASHES LONGBALLS: Marcus Thames belted a two-run home run last night at
San Diego and he has connected for nine home runs over his last 13 games dating back to
June 7. Thames is tops among all major league players with nine home runs during that
stretch. He is third among all American League players with at least 1,000 plate appearances
since the start of the 2004 season with a home run once every 13.53 at-bats
(1015AB/75HR). During his Tigers career, the club has posted a 50-19 record when Thames
hits a home run (including 11-1 in 2008).
SHEFFIELD’S INJURY REHAB ASSIGNMENT: Gary Sheffield was assigned to Single A
Lakeland as part of an injury rehab assignment on Monday. In four games with the Flying
Tigers, he is hitting .100 (1x10) with a home run, an RBI and five walks. Sheffield has been
sidelined since May 27 with a left oblique strain.
INJURY UPDATE:
RHP Jeremy Bonderman (thoracic outlet compression syndrome, 15-day DL on June 7),
INF Ramon Santiago (separated left shoulder, 15-day DL on June 5),
OF Gary Sheffield (left oblique strain, 15-day DL on May 27),
C Vance Wilson (right elbow surgery recovery, 15-day DL on March 30).

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JUSTIN’S CASE: In his third full season at the major league level, Verlander will make his 16th start of the season this afternoon against the San Diego Padres.
SOLID IN HIS LAST SEVEN: Verlander has compiled a 2.63 ERA (48.0IP/14ER) over his last seven starts, despite posting a 2-3 record. He has limited opponents to a .210 batting average (37x176) during the
stretch. Verlander has recorded a quality start in six of the seven outings.
INTERLEAGUE ACTION: Verlander is making his ninth start during interleague play this afternoon against the Padres. He is 7-0 with a 2.10 ERA (55.2IP/13ER) in his previous eight starts. Since the start of the 2006 season, Verlander is tied for second among all major league pitchers with seven wins during interleague play, while he is fifth with a 2.10 ERA.
LOOKING FOR A ROAD WIN: Verlander enters his start this afternoon at San Diego looking for his first victory on the road since September 1, 2007 at Oakland. In eight starts on the road since then, he is 0-6 with a 5.72 ERA (50.1IP/32ER).
AT THE PLATE: Verlander is hitless in seven at-bats at the plate during interleague action. He has collected two sacrifice bunts and struck out three times during his career.
SHORT ON SUPPORT: In his 14 starts this season, Verlander has received 3.43 runs per nine innings of support, fourth-lowest in the American League. Over his first two full major league seasons (2006-07), Verlander was tops among all major league pitchers with 7.08 runs per nine innings of support.
ROUGH ON THE RIGHTIES: Verlander has limited righthanded batters to a .221 batting average (44x199) through his first 15 starts this season. During his career, righthanded hitters are batting .240 (226x943) with Verlander on the mound.
RECORD AT PETCO PARK: Verlander is making his first career start at PETCO Park this afternoon.
MORE PITCHES: Verlander enters his start this afternoon tops among all American League pitchers with 107.5 pitches per game. In his first two seasons (2006-07), he averaged 102.0 pitches per game, 11th-most in the league.
PICKED OFF: Since the start of the 2006 season, Verlander has picked off 11 baserunners. He is tied for second in the American League along with Andy Pettitte during this stretch, with both trailing Chicago’s Mark Buehrle with 17.
QUALITY OUTINGS: Verlander has posted a quality start in 46 of his 79 starts at the major league level during his career. He has worked six-or-more innings in 57 of his starts during his career.

RECENT RESULTS: The Tigers posted a 5-3 win over the San Diego Padres at PETCO Park on Sunday afternoon. Justin Verlander (4-9) fanned a season-high 10 batters as he limited
the Padres to two runs in 5.1 innings of work to earn the victory. Todd Jones tossed a scoreless ninth inning for his 14th save of the season. Magglio Ordonez led the Tigers attack with a double, home run and three RBI. Ivan Rodriguez belted a solo home run, while Carlos Guillen added a single and an RBI. The Tigers begin a six-game homestand this evening with the first game of a three-game series against the St. Louis Cardinals. Detroit concludes the homestand with a three-game series with the Colorado Rockies beginning on Friday night.
SHEFFIELD REINSTATED FROM DL, LARISH OPTIONED: The Tigers today announced the club has recalled the injury rehab assignment of outfielder Gary Sheffield from Single A Lakeland and reinstated him from the disabled list. Additionally, the Tigers today optioned the contract of first baseman Jeff Larish to Triple A Toledo.
WINNING WAYS: The Tigers have won 12 of the club’s last 15 games since June 7, marking the most wins in the majors during the stretch. During the 15-game stretch, the club is hitting .296 (150x507) with 82 runs scored, 22 doubles, four triples and 22 home runs. Detroit has compiled a 3.38 ERA (133.0IP/50ER) during the 15-game stretch.
PLAYING THE CARDS RIGHT AT COMERICA PARK: The Tigers have won eight of their nine regular season games against the Cardinals at Comerica Park, including each of the last six games. Detroit is hitting .329 (101x307) in the nine games versus St. Louis at Comerica Park, scoring 66 runs and collecting 29 doubles, two triples and 13 home runs. The two clubs split the first two games of the 2006 World Series played at Comerica Park.
INTERLEAGUE HAPPENINGS: Tonight’s contest against the Cardinals is Detroit’s 13th game of interleague play in 2008. Since interleague play was started in 1997, the Tigers have compiled a 108-97 record. The Tigers are 45-30 in interleague games at Comerica Park. The Tigers are 8-4 during interleague action in 2008. Since the start of the 2006 season, Detroit has compiled a 37-11 record during interleague action.
INTERLEAGUE LEADERS: Four Tigers players are among the top 20 active major league players in batting average during interleague play: Magglio Ordonez is third with a .339 batting average (190x561), Placido Polanco is 13th with a .321 batting average (164x511), Ivan Rodriguez is 18th with a .318 batting average (225x707) and Edgar Renteria is 20th with a .312 batting average (212x679).
IT STARTS WITH PITCHING: Detroit’s starting pitching has combined to post a 3.19 ERA (166.2IP/59ER) over the last 26 games. During the 26-game stretch, Tigers starters have posted 17 quality starts and limited opponents to a .236 batting average (144x611).
HITTING AT HOME: The Tigers are second among all American League clubs with a .295 batting average (362x1227) in 36 games at home this season. Magglio Ordonez is sixth in the league with a .360 batting average (50x139) at home, while Carlos Guillen is seventh with a .358 batting average (44x123) at home.
POLANCO’S PRODUCTION: Placido Polanco is batting .360 (73x203) with 32 runs scored, 15 doubles, three home runs and 23 RBI over his last 49 games dating back to April 25.
Polanco is leading the American League with a .360 batting average during the stretch, while he is tied for the lead with 73 hits and tied for seventh with 15 doubles.
GRANDY GETS GOING: Curtis Granderson singled on Sunday at San Diego to extend his hitting streak to 11 games. He is batting .372 (16x43) during the hitting streak, collecting three doubles, a triple, home run and five RBI. The Tigers are 9-2 in the 11 games Granderson has hit safely in.
MARCUS MASHES LONGBALLS: Marcus Thames belted a two-run home run on Saturday at San Diego and he has connected for nine home runs over his last 14 games dating back to June 7. Thames is tops among all major league players with nine home runs during that stretch. He is third among all American League players with at least 1,000 plate appearances since the start of the 2004 season with a home run once every 13.59 at-bats (1019AB/75HR). During his Tigers career, the club has posted a 50-19 record when Thames hits a home run (including 11-1 in 2008).
HAPPY AT HOME: In 98 games at Comerica Park dating back to May 10, 2007, Magglio Ordonez is hitting .386 (143x370) with 78 runs scored, 34 doubles, 23 home runs and 87 RBI. He has reached base safely via a hit or walk in 87 of the games.
TIGERS AGREE TO TERMS WITH TWO DRAFT SELECTIONS: The Tigers agreed to terms with the following two players from the 2008 MLB First-Year Player Draft: righthanded pitcher Cody Satterwhite from the University of Mississippi (second round) and shortstop Brett Anderson from Bristol Eastern High School in Connecticut (12th round). The Tigers have now agreed to terms with 31 selections from this year’s draft.
INJURY UPDATE:
RHP Jeremy Bonderman (thoracic outlet compression syndrome, 15-day DL on June 7),
INF Ramon Santiago (separated left shoulder, 15-day DL on June 5),
C Vance Wilson (right elbow surgery recovery, 15-day DL on March 30).

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THE READ ON ROGERS: Rogers is making his 16th start of the season for the Tigers this evening against the St. Louis Cardinals.
FINE IN HIS LAST FIVE: Rogers has compiled a 1.00 ERA (36.0IP/4ER) over his last five starts, winning his only decision during the stretch. Opponents are hitting .205 (25x122) with Rogers on the mound during the stretch.
MR. JUNE: Since joining the Tigers in 2006, Rogers is 6-0 with a 2.34 ERA (80.2IP/21ER) in 12 starts during June. He is third in the American League with a 2.34 ERA in June during the stretch.
INTERLEAGUE ACTION: Rogers is making his 40th appearance, 39th start, during interleague play this evening. In his previous 39 outings, he is 16-6 with a 3.88 ERA (243.1IP/105ER).
HE PLAYED HIS CARDS RIGHT THE LAST TIME: Rogers is facing the St. Louis Cardinals for the first time tonight since he beat them in Game Two of the World Series on October 22, 2006. Rogers blanked the Cardinals on two hits over eight innings of work, fanning five batters as the Tigers posted a 3-1 win.
MOVING UP THE ALL-TIME LEFTY LIST: Rogers is currently in 21st place on the all-time win list among lefthanded pitchers
with his 215 career victories. With one more win, he will match Wilbur Cooper for 20th on that all-time list.
AMONG THE ACTIVE LEADERS: Rogers enters his start this evening against the Cardinals among the active major league pitching leaders in numerous categories. He is seventh with 215 wins and 459 games started, while he is eighth with 3217.2 innings pitched and 11th with 1932 strikeouts.
RECORD AT COMERICA PARK: Rogers is making his 38th career appearance, 35th start, this evening at Comerica Park. In his previous 37 outings, he is 15-7 with a 3.40 ERA (214.1IP/81ER).
NO SWIPING: Tony Pena's stolen base against Rogers in the third inning on May 15 at Kansas City was the first time an
opponent attempted to steal against Rogers since Toronto's Gregg Zaun was caught stealing in the fourth inning on September 28, 2006. It was a stretch of 20 appearances (19 starts) without an opponent even attempting to steal against him. The last successful stolen base attempt against Rogers was by Boston's Coco Crisp on June 2, 2006 when he stole second base in the fourth inning. It was a stretch of 41 appearances (40 starts) without a stolen base against Rogers. During his Tigers career, opponents have been successful in two of the nine stolen base attempts (22.2 percent) and he has picked off five runners.
TOUGH ON THE LEFTIES: Lefthanded batters are hitting .221 (73x331) against Rogers since he joined the Tigers in 2006.

RECENT RESULTS: The Tigers suffered an 8-4 loss to the St. Louis Cardinals last night at Comerica Park. Kenny Rogers (5-5) took the loss for Detroit after allowing five runs in 5.1 innings of work. Miguel Cabrera and Ivan Rodriguez both belted solo home runs for the Tigers, while Gary Sheffield added a two-run home run. Placido Polanco added two hits for Detroit. The Tigers continue a six-game homestand this evening with the second game of a three-game series against the Cardinals. Detroit concludes the homestand with a three game series with the Colorado Rockies beginning on Friday night.
WINNING WAYS: The Tigers have won 12 of the club’s last 16 games since June 7, marking the most wins in the majors during the stretch. During the 16-game stretch, the club is hitting .294 (159x541) with 86 runs scored, 23 doubles, four triples and 25 home runs. Detroit has compiled a 3.68 ERA (142.0IP/58ER) during the 16-game stretch.
PLAYING THE CARDS RIGHT AT COMERICA PARK: The Tigers have won eight of their 10 regular season games against the Cardinals at Comerica Park, including six of the last seven games. Detroit is hitting .323 (110x341) in the 10 games versus St. Louis at Comerica Park, scoring 70 runs and collecting 30 doubles, two triples and 16 home runs. The two clubs split the first two games of the 2006 World Series played at Comerica Park.
INTERLEAGUE HAPPENINGS: Tonight’s contest against the Cardinals is Detroit’s 14th game of interleague play in 2008. Since interleague play was started in 1997, the Tigers have compiled a 108-98 record. The Tigers are 45-31 in interleague games at Comerica Park. The Tigers are 8-5 during interleague action in 2008. Since the start of the 2006 season, Detroit has compiled a 37-12 record during interleague action.
INTERLEAGUE LEADERS: Four Tigers players are among the top 20 active major league players in batting average during interleague play: Magglio Ordonez is second with a .339
batting average (191x564), Placido Polanco is 11th with a .322 batting average (166x515), Ivan Rodriguez is 18th with a .318 batting average (226x711) and Edgar Renteria is 20th with a .312 batting average (213x683).
IT STARTS WITH PITCHING: Detroit’s starting pitching has combined to post a 3.35 ERA (172.0IP/64ER) over the last 27 games. During the 27-game stretch, Tigers starters have posted 17 quality starts and limited opponents to a .241 batting average (153x634).
LOOKING FOR THE LONGBALL: The Tigers connected for three home runs last night versus St. Louis and the club has now belted two-or-more home runs in nine of the club’s last
10 games. Since June 11, the Tigers have homered 21 times in 12 games. Detroit is tied for the lead in the American League with the 21 home runs since June 11.
HITTING AT HOME: The Tigers are second among all American League clubs with a .294 batting average (371x1261) in 37 games at home this season. Magglio Ordonez is sixth in the league with a .359 batting average (51x142) at home, while Carlos Guillen is eighth with a .346 batting average (44x127) at home.
POLANCO’S PRODUCTION: Placido Polanco is batting .362 (75x207) with 32 runs scored, 15 doubles, three home runs and 23 RBI over his last 50 games dating back to April 25.
Polanco is leading the American League with a .362 batting average and 75 hits during the stretch, while he is tied for eighth with 15 doubles.
GRANDY GETS GOING: Curtis Granderson singled last night versus St. Louis to extend his hitting streak to 12 games. He is batting .362 (17x47) during the hitting streak, collecting
three doubles, a triple, home run and five RBI. The Tigers are 9-3 in the 12 games Granderson has hit safely in.
MARCUS MASHES LONGBALLS: Marcus Thames belted a two-run home run on Saturday at San Diego and he has connected for nine home runs over his last 15 games dating back to June 7. Thames is tops among all major league players with nine home runs during that stretch. He is third among all American League players with at least 1,000 plate appearances since the start of the 2004 season with a home run once every 13.63 at-bats (1022AB/75HR). During his Tigers career, the club has posted a 50-19 record when Thames hits a home run (including 11-1 in 2008).
HAPPY AT HOME: In 99 games at Comerica Park dating back to May 10, 2007, Magglio Ordonez is hitting .386 (144x373) with 78 runs scored, 34 doubles, 23 home runs and 87 RBI. He has reached base safely via a hit or walk in 88 of the games.
INJURY UPDATE:
RHP Jeremy Bonderman (thoracic outlet compression syndrome, 15-day DL on June 7),
INF Ramon Santiago (separated left shoulder, 15-day DL on June 5),
C Vance Wilson (right elbow surgery recovery, 15-day DL on March 30).

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ARMANDO’S ANTIDOTE: Galarraga will make his 12th start with the Tigers this evening against the St. Louis Cardinals. Galarraga’s contract was recalled from Triple A Toledo on April 16.
AMONG THE LEAGUE LEADERS: Since April 16, Galarraga is tops among all American League pitchers with a .184 batting average against and 5.93 hits per nine innings.
ROOKIE LEADERS: Galarraga enters his start against the Cardinals this evening leading all American League rookie pitchers with seven wins, while he is second with a .184 batting average against and fourth with a 3.03 ERA.
FOUR STRAIGHT WINS: Galarraga has won each of his last four decisions, posting a 2.10 ERA (30.0IP/7ER) during the five-outing stretch (four starts) dating back to May 28. He is sixth among all American League pitchers with a 2.10 ERA during that stretch.
INTERLEAGUE ACTION: Galarraga is making his fourth career start during interleague play this evening against the Cardinals. He has won all three of his previous starts during interleague play, compiling a 0.95 ERA (19.0IP/2ER).
ROUGH ON THE RIGHTIES: Galarraga has held righthanded batters to a .127 batting average (16x126) in his first 12 outings with the Tigers. He is tops among all American League pitchers with a .127 batting average against righthanded batters. In his two starts with Toledo, Galarraga limited righthanded batters to a .100 batting average (2x20).
QUALITY WORK: Galarraga has posted seven quality starts in his first 11 starts with the Tigers. He is tied for second on the
team, along with Justin Verlander, with the seven quality starts. Kenny Rogers leads the club with nine quality starts.
RECORD AT COMERICA PARK: Galarraga is making his sixth career start at Comerica Park this evening. In his previous five
starts, he is 2-1 with a 3.90 ERA (30.0IP/13ER).
RACKING UP THE SUPPORT: In his 12 outings with the Tigers, Galarraga has received 6.69 runs per nine innings of support.
A FIRST TIME FOR EVERYTHING: In his second major league start on April 16 at Cleveland, Galarraga earned his first major
league victory.
ONE-HIT WONDER: Galarraga limited the Diamondbacks to one hit over six innings of work to earn the win on May 17. It
marked the second time this season Galarraga held the opposition to one hit while tossing at least six innings. Galarraga is the lone Tigers rookie pitcher to limit opponents to one hit while tossing at least six innings in a start twice during the same season since at least 1956.

RECENT RESULTS: The Tigers defeated the Colorado Rockies 7-1 last night at Comerica Park for the club’s third consecutive victory. Eddie Bonine (2-0) limited the Rockies to one run on five hits in eight innings of work to earn the victory. Curtis Granderson led the Tigers offense with four hits, including two triples and an RBI. Clete Thomas added three hits, including a double and a walk, while both Placido Polanco and Miguel Cabrera finished with two hits. The Tigers continue a six-game homestand tonight with the second game of a three-game series against the Colorado Rockies. Following the current homestand, the club hits the road for seven games, opening the trip with a three-game series at Minnesota starting Monday evening.
ROOKIES GETTING IT DONE: Eddie Bonine earned his second victory of the season last night against Colorado, marking the 11th victory by a Tigers rookie pitcher this season. The Tigers rank third in the American League with 11 victories by rookie pitchers, trailing the Minnesota Twins (14) and Baltimore Orioles (13). Overall, Tigers rookies have posted an 11-7 record and 4.10 ERA (145.0IP/66ER).
FOUR TIMES TWO: Curtis Granderson recorded his second consecutive four-hit game last night against Colorado. It marks the first time a Tigers player has recorded four-or-more hits in consecutive games since Placido Polanco on September 10-11, 2005.
THREE BASES, THREE TIMES: The Tigers legged out three triples last night, marking the fourth time the club has collected three triples in a game at Comerica Park. The Tigers last collected three triples in a game at Comerica Park on May 2, 2005 against Boston.
WINNING WAYS: The Tigers have won 15 of the club’s last 19 games since June 7, marking the most wins in the majors during the stretch. During the 19-game stretch, the club is hitting .312 (204x654) with 104 runs scored, 33 doubles, six triples and 27 home runs. Detroit has compiled a 3.49 ERA (170.0IP/66ER) during the 19-game stretch.
SHEFF ROCKS AGAINST THE ROCKIES: Gary Sheffield has enjoyed success in his career against the Colorado Rockies, batting .332 (136x410) with 103 runs scored, 34 doubles, three triples, 29 home runs, 96 RBI and 97 walks in 122 career games. He leads all active players with a .470 on-base percentage against Colorado, while he is third with 103 runs scored, 29 home runs and 96 RBI and fourth with a .641 slugging percentage.
INTERLEAGUE HAPPENINGS: Tonight’s contest against the Rockies is Detroit’s 17th game of interleague play in 2008. Since interleague play was started in 1997, the Tigers have compiled a 111-98 record. The Tigers are 48-31 in interleague games at Comerica Park. The Tigers are 11-5 during interleague action in 2008. Since the start of the 2006 season, Detroit has compiled a 40-12 record during interleague action.
INTERLEAGUE LEADERS: Three Tigers players are among the top 17 active major league players in batting average during interleague play: Magglio Ordonez is third with a .339 batting average (196x579), Placido Polanco is 11th with a .324 batting average (171x527) and Ivan Rodriguez is 17th with a .317 batting average (228x719).
IT STARTS WITH PITCHING: Detroit’s starting pitching has combined to post a 3.25 ERA (191.0IP/69ER) over the last 30 games. During the 30-game stretch, Tigers starters have posted 19 quality starts and limited opponents to a .249 batting average (177x712).
HITTING AT HOME: The Tigers are tops among all American League clubs with a .303 batting average (416x1374) in 40 games at home this season. Magglio Ordonez is sixth with a .357 batting average (56x157) at home, while Carlos Guillen is ninth with a .353 batting average (49x139) at home.
POLANCO’S PRODUCTION: Placido Polanco is batting .365 (80x219) with 35 runs scored, 16 doubles, three home runs and 24 RBI over his last 53 games dating back to April 25. Polanco is leading the American League with a .365 batting average and 80 hits during the stretch, while he is tied for 10th with 16 doubles.
GRANDY GETS GOING: Curtis Granderson collected four hits last night versus Colorado to extend his hitting streak to 15 games and further a career best. He is batting .443 (27x61) during the hitting streak, collecting four doubles, three triples, home run and seven RBI. The Tigers are 12-3 in the 15 games Granderson has hit safely in.
HAPPY AT HOME: In 102 games at Comerica Park dating back to May 10, 2007, Magglio Ordonez is hitting .384 (149x388) with 78 runs scored, 35 doubles, 23 home runs and 89 RBI. He has reached base safely via a hit or walk in 91 of the games.
INJURY UPDATE:
RHP Jeremy Bonderman (thoracic outlet compression syndrome, 15-day DL on June 7),
C/INF Brandon Inge (pulled oblique, 15-day DL on June 23),
INF Ramon Santiago (separated left shoulder, 15-day DL on June 5),
C Vance Wilson (right elbow surgery recovery, 15-day DL on March 30).

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JUSTIN’S CASE: In his third full season at the major league level, Verlander will make his 17th start of the season tonight against the Colorado Rockies.
GREAT IN HIS LAST EIGHT: Verlander has posted a 3-3 record and 2.70 ERA (53.1IP/16ER) over his last eight starts. He has limited opponents to a .213 batting average (42x197) during the stretch. Verlander has recorded a quality start in six of the eight outings.
INTERLEAGUE ACTION: Verlander is making his 10th start during interleague play this evening against the Rockies. He is 8-0 with a 2.21 ERA (61.0IP/15ER) in his previous nine starts. Since the start of the 2006 season, Verlander is tied for second among all major league pitchers with eight wins during interleague play, while he is fifth with a 2.21 ERA.
RING ‘EM UP: Verlander struck out 10 batters in his last outing against the San Diego Padres on Sunday afternoon. It marked Verlander’s fourth career game with 10-or-more strikeouts and his first of the 2008 season. He is 4-0 with a 1.29 ERA (28.0IP/4ER) and has limited opponents to a .153 batting average (15x98) in his four career games with 10-or-more strikeouts.
SHORT ON SUPPORT: In his 15 starts this season, Verlander has received 3.52 runs per nine innings of support, fourth-lowest in the American League. Over his first two full major league seasons (2006-07), Verlander was tops among all major league pitchers with 7.08 runs per nine innings of support.
ROUGH ON THE RIGHTIES: Verlander has limited righthanded batters to a .219 batting average (46x210) through his first 16 starts this season. During his career, righthanded hitters are batting .239 (228x954) with Verlander on the mound.
RECORD AT COMERICA PARK: Verlander is making his 42nd career start at Comerica Park this evening. In his previous 41 starts, he is 21-11 with a 3.74 ERA (257.1IP/107ER).
WINNING AT HOME: Verlander is tied for fourth among all American League pitchers with 21 wins, along with New York’s Mike Mussina, at home since the start of the 2006 season. He has compiled a 21-10 record in his 40 starts at home during the stretch, a .677 winning percentage. Only New York’s Chien-Ming Wang (24), Toronto’s Roy Halladay (23) and Cleveland’s C.C. Sabathia (22) have posted more wins at home during the stretch.
MORE PITCHES: Verlander enters his start this evening tops among all American League pitchers with 107.9 pitches per game. In his first two seasons (2006-07), he averaged 102.0 pitches per game, 11th-most in the league.
PICKED OFF: Since the start of the 2006 season, Verlander has picked off 11 baserunners. He is third in the American League during this stretch, trailing Chicago’s Mark Buehrle with 17 and New York’s Andy Pettitte with 12.
QUALITY OUTINGS: Verlander has posted a quality start in 46 of his 80 starts at the major league level during his career. He has worked six-or-more innings in 57 of his starts during his career.