Tigers win a laugher

For the first time this year, the Tigers had an easy win as they crushed the Indians 13-2. That's more like it. Pitching in place of the disabled Dontrelle Willis, Armando Galarraga made his Tiger debut and it was an impressive one. After allowing a home run in the first inning to Dave Dellucci, the Big Cat retired 17 Indians in a row. He tired a bit in the 7th inning and hit two batters but he allowed just one hit and no walks in 6 2/3 innings. It was a big lift for a pitching staff that had allowed a major league worst by far 6.6 runs per game coming in.

The Tigers had their biggest offensive game of the year so far with seasons highs in runs (13) and hits (17) plus 9 bases on balls. Much of the damage was done off the struggling CC Sabathia who allowed 9 runs on 8 hits and 5 walks to raise his season ERA to 13.50. The hitting heroes for the Bengals were Miguel Cabrera (4 hits including a homer and 5 RBI) and Edgar Renteria (3 hits with a grand slam and 5 RBI).

The win was the third in a row for the slow starting Tigers who moved into a fourth place tie with the Indians at 5-10. Who thought that the two divisional favorites would be tied for last after 2 1/2 weeks? The Tigers will try to make it four in a row tomorrow night when Justin Verlander faces Fausto Carmona.

Notes:

In perhaps the best news of the day, it appears that Curtis Granderson may be back soon. He could go on minor league rehab as early as Friday. Normally, he would rehab in Toledo but, due to more convenient scheduling, he may be headed to West Michigan for a few days. That would be a rare treat for Whitecaps fans.

In order to make room for Galarraga on the 25 man roster, the Tigers designated Francis Beltran for assignment. Since Beltran is out of options, this means the Tigers will have ten days to either trade him or pass him through waivers. Yorman Bazardo is in the same boat. Neither should have much problem getting through waivers.