SB Nation Detroit - Tigers Vs. Athletics: Detroit Roughed Up By Oakland In Finale, 12-4https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/48919/detroit-fave.png2012-09-21T10:00:58-04:00http://detroit.sbnation.com/rss/stream/31188132012-09-21T10:00:58-04:002012-09-21T10:00:58-04:002012 MLB Standings: White Sox Loss Keeps Door Open For Tigers
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<p>A loss yesterday to the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.athleticsnation.com/">Oakland Athletics</a> was offset late in the day as the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.royalsreview.com/">Kansas City Royals</a> scored in the ninth inning to beat the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.southsidesox.com/">Chicago White Sox</a>, and leave the standings in the AL Central unchanged. The <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.blessyouboys.com/">Detroit Tigers</a> remain two games back, and with a favorable series coming up could gain ground in the division.</p>
<p>The 62-87 <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.twinkietown.com/">Minnesota Twins</a> head to town, fresh off a series loss to the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.letsgotribe.com/">Indians</a>. Meanwhile the White Sox are charged with heading out West to face the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.halosheaven.com/">Los Angeles Angels</a>, who are losing ground in the AL West, but still the considerably tougher opponent. The stage is set for the Tigers to make a run, and capitalize on Chicago's loss last night. Provided their bats can get going, they'll be in perfect shape to catch up with the White Sox.</p>
<p align="LEFT">There are just thirteen games left for each team, and the division still hangs in the balance. For both the Detroit Tigers and Chicago White Sox the next 72hrs will be critical.</p>
<p align="LEFT"><b>AL Central</b></p>
<p align="LEFT">
</p>
<table style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; " cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" border="0">
<tbody>
<tr class="cnnRow1">
<td class="cnnCol0">Central</td>
<td class="cnnCol1">W<span style="white-space:pre"> </span>
</td>
<td class="cnnCol2">L<span style="white-space:pre"> </span>
</td>
<td class="cnnCol3">Pct<span style="white-space:pre"> </span>
</td>
<td class="cnnCol4">GB<span style="white-space:pre"> </span>
</td>
<td class="cnnCol5">Home<span style="white-space:pre"> </span>
</td>
<td class="cnnCol6">Road<span style="white-space:pre"> </span>
</td>
<td class="cnnCol7">Last 10<span style="white-space:pre"> </span>
</td>
<td class="cnnCol8">Streak</td>
</tr>
<tr class="cnnRow2">
<td class="cnnCol0"><a href="http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/baseball/mlb/teams/white_sox/">Chicago White Sox</a></td>
<td class="cnnCol1">81</td>
<td class="cnnCol2">68</td>
<td class="cnnCol3">.544</td>
<td class="cnnCol4">--</td>
<td class="cnnCol5">43-31</td>
<td class="cnnCol6">38-37</td>
<td class="cnnCol7">6-4</td>
<td class="cnnCol8">Lost 2</td>
</tr>
<tr class="cnnRow2">
<td class="cnnCol0"><a href="http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/baseball/mlb/teams/tigers/">Detroit Tigers</a></td>
<td class="cnnCol1">79</td>
<td class="cnnCol2">70</td>
<td class="cnnCol3">.530</td>
<td class="cnnCol4">2</td>
<td class="cnnCol5">45-29</td>
<td class="cnnCol6">34-41</td>
<td class="cnnCol7">6-4</td>
<td class="cnnCol8">Lost 1</td>
</tr>
<tr class="cnnRow2">
<td class="cnnCol0"><a href="http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/baseball/mlb/teams/royals/">Kansas City Royals</a></td>
<td class="cnnCol1">68</td>
<td class="cnnCol2">81</td>
<td class="cnnCol3">.456</td>
<td class="cnnCol4">13</td>
<td class="cnnCol5">34-41</td>
<td class="cnnCol6">34-40</td>
<td class="cnnCol7">6-4</td>
<td class="cnnCol8">Won 2</td>
</tr>
<tr class="cnnRow2">
<td class="cnnCol0"><a href="http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/baseball/mlb/teams/indians/">Cleveland Indians</a></td>
<td class="cnnCol1">62</td>
<td class="cnnCol2">88</td>
<td class="cnnCol3">.413</td>
<td class="cnnCol4">19.5</td>
<td class="cnnCol5">34-41</td>
<td class="cnnCol6">28-47</td>
<td class="cnnCol7">3-7</td>
<td class="cnnCol8">Won 1</td>
</tr>
<tr class="cnnRow2">
<td class="cnnCol0"><a href="http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/baseball/mlb/teams/twins/">Minnesota Twins</a></td>
<td class="cnnCol1">62</td>
<td class="cnnCol2">88</td>
<td class="cnnCol3">.413</td>
<td class="cnnCol4">19.5</td>
<td class="cnnCol5">29-46</td>
<td class="cnnCol6">33-42</td>
<td class="cnnCol7">4-6</td>
<td class="cnnCol8">
<p>Lost 1</p>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p><b>Wild Card</b></p>
<p>
</p>
<table style="font-family: verdana, geneva, sans-serif; " class="cnnSASD_first" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" border="0">
<tbody>
<tr class="cnnRow1">
<td class="cnnCol0">Team<span style="white-space:pre"> </span>
</td>
<td class="cnnCol1">W<span style="white-space:pre"> </span>
</td>
<td class="cnnCol2">L</td>
<td class="cnnCol3">Pct</td>
<td class="cnnCol4">GB</td>
<td class="cnnCol5">Home<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>
</td>
<td class="cnnCol6">Road<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>
</td>
<td class="cnnCol7">Last 10</td>
<td class="cnnCol8">Streak</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="cnnCol0"><a href="http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/baseball/mlb/teams/orioles/">Baltimore Orioles</a></td>
<td class="cnnCol1">85</td>
<td class="cnnCol2">64</td>
<td class="cnnCol3">.570<span style="white-space:pre"> </span>
</td>
<td class="cnnCol4">--</td>
<td class="cnnCol5">42-32</td>
<td class="cnnCol6">43-32</td>
<td class="cnnCol7">7-3</td>
<td class="cnnCol8">Won 4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="cnnCol0"><a href="http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/baseball/mlb/teams/athletics/">Oakland Athletics</a></td>
<td class="cnnCol1">85</td>
<td class="cnnCol2">64</td>
<td class="cnnCol3">.570</td>
<td class="cnnCol4">--</td>
<td class="cnnCol5">44-31</td>
<td class="cnnCol6">41-33</td>
<td class="cnnCol7">6-4</td>
<td class="cnnCol8">Won 1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="cnnCol0"><a href="http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/baseball/mlb/teams/angels/">Los Angeles Angels</a></td>
<td class="cnnCol1">81</td>
<td class="cnnCol2">68</td>
<td class="cnnCol3">.544</td>
<td class="cnnCol4">4</td>
<td class="cnnCol5">41-33</td>
<td class="cnnCol6">40-35</td>
<td class="cnnCol7">5-5</td>
<td class="cnnCol8">Lost 1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="cnnCol0"><a href="http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/baseball/mlb/teams/rays/">Tampa Bay Rays</a></td>
<td class="cnnCol1">80</td>
<td class="cnnCol2">70</td>
<td class="cnnCol3">.533</td>
<td class="cnnCol4">5.5</td>
<td class="cnnCol5">41-34</td>
<td class="cnnCol6">39-36</td>
<td class="cnnCol7">3-7</td>
<td class="cnnCol8">Won 2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="cnnCol0"><a href="http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/baseball/mlb/teams/tigers/">Detroit Tigers</a></td>
<td class="cnnCol1">79</td>
<td class="cnnCol2">70<span style="white-space:pre"> </span>
</td>
<td class="cnnCol3">.530</td>
<td class="cnnCol4">6</td>
<td class="cnnCol5">45-29</td>
<td class="cnnCol6">34-41</td>
<td class="cnnCol7">6-4</td>
<td class="cnnCol8">Lost 1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="cnnCol0"><a href="http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/baseball/mlb/teams/mariners/">Seattle Mariners</a></td>
<td class="cnnCol1">70</td>
<td class="cnnCol2">80</td>
<td class="cnnCol3">.467</td>
<td class="cnnCol4">15.5</td>
<td class="cnnCol5">36-39</td>
<td class="cnnCol6">34-41</td>
<td class="cnnCol7">3-7</td>
<td class="cnnCol8">Lost 4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="cnnCol0"><a href="http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/baseball/mlb/teams/royals/">Kansas City Royals</a></td>
<td class="cnnCol1">68</td>
<td class="cnnCol2">81</td>
<td class="cnnCol3">.456</td>
<td class="cnnCol4">17</td>
<td class="cnnCol5">34-41</td>
<td class="cnnCol6">34-40</td>
<td class="cnnCol7">6-4</td>
<td class="cnnCol8">Won 2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="cnnCol0"><a href="http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/baseball/mlb/teams/red_sox/">Boston Red Sox</a></td>
<td class="cnnCol1">68</td>
<td class="cnnCol2">83</td>
<td class="cnnCol3">.450</td>
<td class="cnnCol4">18</td>
<td class="cnnCol5">33-43</td>
<td class="cnnCol6">35-40</td>
<td class="cnnCol7">5-5</td>
<td class="cnnCol8">Lost 2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="cnnCol0"><a href="http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/baseball/mlb/teams/blue_jays/">Toronto Blue Jays</a></td>
<td class="cnnCol1">66</td>
<td class="cnnCol2">82</td>
<td class="cnnCol3">.446</td>
<td class="cnnCol4">18.5</td>
<td class="cnnCol5">36-38</td>
<td class="cnnCol6">30-44</td>
<td class="cnnCol7">3-7</td>
<td class="cnnCol8">Lost 3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="cnnCol0"><a href="http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/baseball/mlb/teams/indians/">Cleveland Indians</a></td>
<td class="cnnCol1">62</td>
<td class="cnnCol2">88</td>
<td class="cnnCol3">.413</td>
<td class="cnnCol4">23.5</td>
<td class="cnnCol5">34-41</td>
<td class="cnnCol6">28-47</td>
<td class="cnnCol7">3-7</td>
<td class="cnnCol8">Won 1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="cnnCol0"><a href="http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/baseball/mlb/teams/twins/">Minnesota Twins</a></td>
<td class="cnnCol1">62</td>
<td class="cnnCol2">88</td>
<td class="cnnCol3">.413</td>
<td class="cnnCol4">23.5</td>
<td class="cnnCol5">29-46</td>
<td class="cnnCol6">33-42</td>
<td class="cnnCol7">4-6</td>
<td class="cnnCol8">Lost 1</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p align="LEFT">Find a full list of the MLB Standings here at <a href="http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/baseball/mlb/standings/?eref=sinav">SI.com.</a></p>
<p align="LEFT"><i>For more on the Detroit Tigers please visit <a href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/">Bless You Boys</a>.</i></p>
https://detroit.sbnation.com/detroit-tigers/2012/9/21/3366814/mlb-standings-2012-chicago-white-sox-detroit-tigers-wild-cardJames Dator2012-09-20T16:27:37-04:002012-09-20T16:27:37-04:00Alex Avila Injury Update: Tigers Catcher Cleared To Return
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<p><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.blessyouboys.com/">Detroit Tigers</a> catcher <span>Alex Avila</span> has been cleared to return for the opening game of the Tigers' series against the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.twinkietown.com/">Minnesota Twins</a>, which will take place on Friday. Avila has missed four consecutive games while dealing with the effects of a mild concussion that he sustained earlier in the week.</p>
<p>Avila underwent concussion tests on Tuesday and Thursday, <a target="_blank" href="http://www.mlive.com/tigers/index.ssf/2012/09/detroit_tigers_alex_avila_medi.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+mlive_sports+%28MLive.com+Sports%29">according to MLive's James Schmehl</a>, and the results of the latter were much better than that of the former, said the Detroit backstop:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>"Everything was just better across the board. I feel better mentally. I feel more normal. Everything is good."</p>
</blockquote>
<p>Avila collided with Tigers first baseman <span>Prince Fielder</span> as the two were attempting to field a pop-up in Sunday's game against the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.letsgotribe.com/">Cleveland Indians</a>. Fielder stayed in the game, but Avila exited after the play, which took place in the sixth inning.</p>
<p>Avila is hitting .247/.355/.388 in 402 plate appearances in 2012.</p>
<p><i>For more on the Tigers, be sure to visit <a target="_blank" href="http://www.blessyouboys.com">Bless You Boys</a>. And, for additional MLB coverage, head over to <a href="http://mlb.sbnation.com">Baseball Nation</a>.</i></p>
https://detroit.sbnation.com/detroit-tigers/2012/9/20/3364706/alex-avila-injury-concussion-tigersBryan Kilpatrick2012-09-20T16:22:18-04:002012-09-20T16:22:18-04:00Athletics Vs. Tigers Final Score: Detroit Halted By Oakland In Series Finale, 12-4
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<p>The <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.blessyouboys.com/">Detroit Tigers</a> were unable to pull off a three-game sweep of Oakland on Thursday, as the visiting <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.athleticsnation.com/">Athletics</a> left Comerica Park with a comfortable 12-4 victory in the series finale.</p>
<p>Tigers right-hander <span>Anibal Sanchez</span> fanned eight batters over five and 2/3 innings of work, but was roughed up for four runs in the sixth before being pulled from the mound. Sanchez fell to 8-13 on the season with the loss, and is now just 3-6 through 10 starts since joining the Tigers' rotation at the trade deadline.</p>
<p>Detroit slugger <span>Miguel Cabrera</span> still managed to maintain his Triple Crown pursuit with a 1-for-4 performance from the plate to move his season average to .333, but was unable to homer for the third consecutive game. Outfielder <span>Andy Dirks</span> provided the biggest hit of the game with a solo blast into the bleachers in right, but the Tigers could not mount a comeback late after reliever <span>Octavio Dotel</span> alone was shelled for four runs in the ninth.</p>
<p>Next up for Jim Leyland's team is a three-game weekend series with the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.twinkietown.com/">Minnesota Twins</a> at Comerica Park. <span>Rick Porcello</span> will take the hill in search of his 10th win of the season on Friday in Game 1.</p>
<p><i>Head over to <a href="http://www.blessyouboys.com">Bless You Boys</a> for more Tigers coverage, and be sure to visit <a href="http://www.athleticsnation.com">Athletics Nation</a> for more on the A's. Also check out <a href="http://mlb.sbnation.com">Baseball Nation</a> for more news and analysis from around the league.</i></p>
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https://detroit.sbnation.com/detroit-tigers/2012/9/20/3364640/athletics-vs-tigers-final-score-detroit-oakland-recapDave Ryan2012-09-20T08:02:48-04:002012-09-20T08:02:48-04:00Athletics Vs. Tigers Preview: Detroit Goes For Sweep In Matinee
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<p>The <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.blessyouboys.com/">Detroit Tigers</a> moved back to within two games of the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.southsidesox.com/">Chicago White Sox</a> in the race for first place in the A.L. Central on Wednesday night, and they'll be looking to continue that momentum as they wrap up their series with the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.athleticsnation.com/">Oakland Athletics</a> on Thursday afternoon.</p>
<p>On the mound for the Tigers is <span>Anibal Sanchez</span>, who is working on a streak of five straight quality starts. The Tigers, though, have only won two of those five starts, a trend which they'll certainly be looking to reverse on Thursday. Sanchez's starts in Comerica Park have been a mixed bag since he's joined Detroit -- he's been able to suppress runs thanks to only giving up one homer in 21.2 innings pitched there, but has also allowed 35 baserunners in those innings.</p>
<p>The good news for Detroit is that they will be facing A's rookie <span>Tom Milone</span>, who has enjoyed a stellar rookie season if you erase his starts away from home. On the road, Milone has an ERA of 5.13, nearly a full 2.5 runs higher than his home ERA. Milone has also been slightly worse after the All-Star break.</p>
<p>First pitch will be at 1:05 p.m. ET on Thursday and will be broadcast on FSN Detroit. </p>
<p><i>For the latest on all things Tigers, <a href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/">visit Bless You Boys.</a> For more news, notes and analysis from around MLB, check out <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb">Baseball Nation</a>.</i></p>
<p><a title="Check out the SB Nation Channel on YouTube" href="http://www.youtube.com/subscription_center?add_user=sbnation"><img alt="Check out the SB Nation Channel on YouTube" onclick="_gaq.push(['_trackEvent', 'SBN YouTube Integration', 'HTML Article Insert - Grey']);" src="http://assets.sbnation.com.s3.amazonaws.com/youtube/youtube-article-insert.png"></a></p>
https://detroit.sbnation.com/detroit-tigers/2012/9/20/3361350/athletics-vs-tigers-preview-mlbJordan Sargent2012-09-19T22:57:27-04:002012-09-19T22:57:27-04:00Athletics vs. Tigers Final Score: Detroit Cruises To 6-2 Victory
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<p>The <a href="https://www.blessyouboys.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Detroit Tigers</a> picked up another crucial victory on Wednesday night, dominating the <a href="https://www.athleticsnation.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Oakland Athletics</a> en route to a 6-2 win. The Tigers ran A's starter Brett Anderson from the game early, and then relied on a combination of starter <span>Justin Verlander</span> and a few big hits to improve to 79-69.</p>
<p>The win puts Detroit two<b style="font-family: Times; font-size: medium; line-height: normal; font-weight: normal;" id="internal-source-marker_0.22159053361974657"><span style="font-size: 15px; font-family: Arial; background-color: transparent; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></b>games behind the <a href="https://www.southsidesox.com/">Chicago White Sox</a> for the AL Central lead after the White Sox's 3-0 loss to the <a href="https://www.royalsreview.com/">Kansas City Royals</a>.</p>
<p>The Tigers scored three runs off of Anderson in the third inning when <span>Omar Infante</span> doubled in two runs and <span>Delmon Young</span> brought in the third on a sacrifice fly. <span>Jhonny Peralta</span> singled home a run in the fifth, and <span>Miguel Cabrera</span> hit homer No. 41 in the seventh inning to make the score 5-0. Infante drove in the Tigers' sixth run in the eighth on a fielder's choice.</p>
<p>Oakland scored two runs in the bottom of the ninth off <span>Jose Valverde</span>, but their bats were quiet for almost the entire night. Verlander allowed five hits and no runs over six innings. He walked three and also struck out five.</p>
<p>The teams will wrap up the series Thursday afternoon when <span>Anibal Sanchez</span> takes on <span>Tom Milone</span>.</p>
<p><i>For the latest on all things Tigers, <a href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/">visit Bless You Boys.</a> For more news, notes and analysis from around MLB, check out <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb">Baseball Nation</a>.</i></p>
<p><a href="http://www.youtube.com/subscription_center?add_user=sbnation" title="Check out the SB Nation Channel on YouTube"><img src="http://assets.sbnation.com.s3.amazonaws.com/youtube/youtube-article-insert.png" onclick="_gaq.push(['_trackEvent', 'SBN YouTube Integration', 'HTML Article Insert - Grey']);" alt="Check out the SB Nation Channel on YouTube"></a></p>
https://detroit.sbnation.com/detroit-tigers/2012/9/19/3361126/athletics-vs-tigers-final-score-mlbJordan Sargent2012-09-19T16:40:09-04:002012-09-19T16:40:09-04:00A's Vs. Tigers Lineups: Justin Verlander Looks For 15th Win
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<p>The <a href="https://www.blessyouboys.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Detroit Tigers</a> play host to the Oakland A's again on Wednesday night, and reigning American League MVP and Cy Young winner <span>Justin Verlander</span> will start for the Tigers.</p>
<p>Verlander brings a 14-8 record into Wednesday's start, with a 2.82 ERA and 1.05 WHIP. Verlander has struck out 218 batters in 217 and 1/3 innings this year. Certainly, Verlander is in the discussion for the Cy Young again in 2012, and he'll look for win No. 15 on Wednesday to help boast his candidacy -- and Detroit's playoff chances.</p>
<p>Both managers have announced the starting lineups, and they are as follows:</p>
<h4><a href="https://www.athleticsnation.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Oakland Athletics</a></h4>
<p>SS <span>Stephen Drew</span><br>DH <span>Seth Smith</span><br>RF <span>Josh Reddick</span><br>CF Yoenis Cespedes<br>LF Brandon Moss<br>3B <span>Josh Donaldson</span><br>1B <span>Daric Barton</span><br> C Derek Norris<br>2B <span>Cliff Pennington</span></p>
<p>SP Brett Anderson</p>
<h4>Detroit Tigers</h4>
<p>CF Austin Jackson<br>2B <span>Omar Infante</span><br>3B <span>Miguel Cabrera</span><br>1B <span>Prince Fielder</span><br>DH <span>Delmon Young</span><br>SS <span>Jhonny Peralta</span><br>RF Avisail Garcia<br>LF <span>Andy Dirks</span><br> C <span>Gerald Laird</span></p>
<p>SP Justin Verlander</p>
<p>Detroit's lineup faces a tough pitcher in Brett Anderson. Anderson did get roughed up in his most recent outing, allowing five runs in six and two thirds innings of work.</p>
<p><i>For the latest on all things Tigers, <a href="http://www.blessyouboys.com">visit Bless You Boys.</a></i></p>
https://detroit.sbnation.com/detroit-tigers/2012/9/19/3359328/as-vs-tigers-lineups-justin-verlander-looks-for-15th-winJP Starkey2012-09-19T16:19:21-04:002012-09-19T16:19:21-04:002012 MLB Standings: Tigers Still Trail White Sox By 3 Games
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/H1nkJZEKgNB4flMOTtEjqeuhPPs=/0x26:400x293/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/47828117/large_detroit.sbnation.com.minimal.66294.0.png" />
</figure>
<p>Despite a dominating 12-2 win over the American League wild card-leading Oakland A's, the Detroit Tigers still face an uphill battle if they're going to qualify for the playoffs in 2012.</p>
<p>Since the Chicago White Sox also won on Tuesday night, the Tigers remain three games behind the Tigers for first place in the American League Central. Detroit didn't gain any ground on the <a href="https://www.camdenchat.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Baltimore Orioles</a> for the second wild card spot either, as the Orioles defeated the <a href="https://www.lookoutlanding.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Mariners</a> in 18 innings on Tuesday night. Detroit remains five and a half games behind Baltimore.</p>
<h3 style="margin-bottom: 0px; padding: 3px 10px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: #de4406; color: #ffffff; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'Liberation Sans', FreeSans, sans-serif; line-height: 25.33333396911621px;">AL Central Standings</h3>
<div class="pane-body" style="margin: 0px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-size: 13.333333015441895px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: #ffffff; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'Liberation Sans', FreeSans, sans-serif; line-height: 25.33333396911621px;">
<table cellspacing="0" class="standings zebra" style="margin: 0px auto; padding: 0px; outline: 0px; font-size: 13.333333015441895px; vertical-align: baseline; border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 1px; border-color: #aaaaaa #dddddd; width: 300px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 0px;">
<thead style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; outline: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; outline: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<th style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 2px 2px 4px; outline: 0px; font-size: 10px; vertical-align: middle; background-color: #c7ccd1; line-height: 14px; text-transform: uppercase;"></th>
<th style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 2px 2px 4px; outline: 0px; font-size: 10px; vertical-align: middle; background-color: #c7ccd1; line-height: 14px; text-transform: uppercase;">W</th>
<th style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 2px 2px 4px; outline: 0px; font-size: 10px; vertical-align: middle; background-color: #c7ccd1; line-height: 14px; text-transform: uppercase;">L</th>
<th style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 2px 2px 4px; outline: 0px; font-size: 10px; vertical-align: middle; background-color: #c7ccd1; line-height: 14px; text-transform: uppercase;">PCT</th>
<th style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 2px 2px 4px; outline: 0px; font-size: 10px; vertical-align: middle; background-color: #c7ccd1; line-height: 14px; text-transform: uppercase;">GB</th>
<th style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 2px 2px 4px; outline: 0px; font-size: 10px; vertical-align: middle; background-color: #c7ccd1; line-height: 14px; text-transform: uppercase;">STRK</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; outline: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-bottom-color: #dddddd;">
<tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; outline: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<td class="td-name td-first " style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 4px 4px 10px; outline: 0px; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: middle; line-height: 14px; background-color: #e4e9ed; border: 0px; width: 90px; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">
<a href="https://www.southsidesox.com/" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; color: #0a56af; font-weight: bold;">Chicago</a> <span id="blog_icon_542319363" class="blog-hover-link" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent;"><a href="http://www.southsidesox.com/" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; color: #0a56af; font-weight: bold;"><img class="sbnstar" src="http://cdn0.sbnation.com/images/icons/red-star.v37b17e2.png" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding: 0px; outline: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent;"></a></span>
</td>
<td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px; outline: 0px; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: middle; line-height: 14px; background-color: #e4e9ed; border: 0px; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">81</td>
<td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px; outline: 0px; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: middle; line-height: 14px; background-color: #e4e9ed; border: 0px; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">66</td>
<td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px; outline: 0px; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: middle; line-height: 14px; background-color: #e4e9ed; border: 0px; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">.551</td>
<td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px; outline: 0px; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: middle; line-height: 14px; background-color: #e4e9ed; border: 0px; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">0</td>
<td class="td-last" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px; outline: 0px; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: middle; line-height: 14px; background-color: #e4e9ed; border: 0px; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">Won 5</td>
</tr>
<tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; outline: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<td class="td-name td-first " style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 4px 4px 10px; outline: 0px; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: middle; line-height: 14px; background-color: #e4e9ed; border: 0px; width: 90px; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">
<a href="https://www.blessyouboys.com/" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; color: #0a56af; font-weight: bold;">Detroit</a> <span id="blog_icon_260755873" class="blog-hover-link" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent;"><a href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; color: #0a56af; font-weight: bold;"><img class="sbnstar" src="http://cdn0.sbnation.com/images/icons/red-star.v37b17e2.png" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding: 0px; outline: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent;"></a></span>
</td>
<td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px; outline: 0px; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: middle; line-height: 14px; background-color: #e4e9ed; border: 0px; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">78</td>
<td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px; outline: 0px; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: middle; line-height: 14px; background-color: #e4e9ed; border: 0px; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">69</td>
<td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px; outline: 0px; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: middle; line-height: 14px; background-color: #e4e9ed; border: 0px; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">.530</td>
<td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px; outline: 0px; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: middle; line-height: 14px; background-color: #e4e9ed; border: 0px; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">3</td>
<td class="td-last" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px; outline: 0px; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: middle; line-height: 14px; background-color: #e4e9ed; border: 0px; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">Won 1</td>
</tr>
<tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; outline: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<td class="td-name td-first " style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 4px 4px 10px; outline: 0px; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: middle; line-height: 14px; background-color: #e4e9ed; border: 0px; width: 90px; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">
<a href="https://www.royalsreview.com/" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; color: #0a56af; font-weight: bold;">Kansas City</a> <span id="blog_icon_51067143" class="blog-hover-link" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent;"><a href="http://www.royalsreview.com/" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; color: #0a56af; font-weight: bold;"><img class="sbnstar" src="http://cdn0.sbnation.com/images/icons/red-star.v37b17e2.png" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding: 0px; outline: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent;"></a></span>
</td>
<td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px; outline: 0px; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: middle; line-height: 14px; background-color: #e4e9ed; border: 0px; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">66</td>
<td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px; outline: 0px; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: middle; line-height: 14px; background-color: #e4e9ed; border: 0px; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">81</td>
<td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px; outline: 0px; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: middle; line-height: 14px; background-color: #e4e9ed; border: 0px; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">.448</td>
<td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px; outline: 0px; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: middle; line-height: 14px; background-color: #e4e9ed; border: 0px; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">15</td>
<td class="td-last" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px; outline: 0px; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: middle; line-height: 14px; background-color: #e4e9ed; border: 0px; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">Lost 2</td>
</tr>
<tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; outline: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<td class="td-name td-first " style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 4px 4px 10px; outline: 0px; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: middle; line-height: 14px; background-color: #e4e9ed; border: 0px; width: 90px; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">
<a href="https://www.letsgotribe.com/" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; color: #0a56af; font-weight: bold;">Cleveland</a> <span id="blog_icon_29559454" class="blog-hover-link" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent;"><a href="http://www.letsgotribe.com/" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; color: #0a56af; font-weight: bold;"><img class="sbnstar" src="http://cdn0.sbnation.com/images/icons/red-star.v37b17e2.png" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding: 0px; outline: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent;"></a></span>
</td>
<td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px; outline: 0px; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: middle; line-height: 14px; background-color: #e4e9ed; border: 0px; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">61</td>
<td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px; outline: 0px; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: middle; line-height: 14px; background-color: #e4e9ed; border: 0px; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">87</td>
<td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px; outline: 0px; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: middle; line-height: 14px; background-color: #e4e9ed; border: 0px; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">.412</td>
<td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px; outline: 0px; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: middle; line-height: 14px; background-color: #e4e9ed; border: 0px; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">20.5</td>
<td class="td-last" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px; outline: 0px; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: middle; line-height: 14px; background-color: #e4e9ed; border: 0px; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">Lost 1</td>
</tr>
<tr style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; outline: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<td class="td-name td-first " style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px 4px 4px 10px; outline: 0px; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: middle; line-height: 14px; background-color: #e4e9ed; border: 0px; width: 90px; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">
<a href="https://www.twinkietown.com/" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; color: #0a56af; font-weight: bold;">Minnesota</a> <span id="blog_icon_711192013" class="blog-hover-link" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent;"><a href="http://www.twinkietown.com/" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; color: #0a56af; font-weight: bold;"><img class="sbnstar" src="http://cdn0.sbnation.com/images/icons/red-star.v37b17e2.png" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding: 0px; outline: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent;"></a></span>
</td>
<td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px; outline: 0px; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: middle; line-height: 14px; background-color: #e4e9ed; border: 0px; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">61</td>
<td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px; outline: 0px; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: middle; line-height: 14px; background-color: #e4e9ed; border: 0px; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">87</td>
<td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px; outline: 0px; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: middle; line-height: 14px; background-color: #e4e9ed; border: 0px; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">.412</td>
<td style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px; outline: 0px; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: middle; line-height: 14px; background-color: #e4e9ed; border: 0px; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">20.5</td>
<td class="td-last" style="margin: 0px; padding: 4px; outline: 0px; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: middle; line-height: 14px; background-color: #e4e9ed; border: 0px; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">Won 1</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</div>
<p> </p>
<p>Needless to say, the AL Central is much more likely a fit for the Tigers than a wild card spot.</p>
<p>Still, the folks at <a target="_blank" href="http://coolstandings.com/">coolstandings.com </a>give the Tigers just a 17% chance of winning the division -- and a 20.8% overall chance at making the playoffs.</p>
<p>The Tigers will have an opportunity to gain ground on the White Sox this weekend, as the White Sox head to Los Angeles to take on <span>Mike Trout</span> and the <a href="https://www.halosheaven.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Angels</a>, while the Tigers host the Twins.</p>
<p><i>For more on the Tigers, be sure to check out <a target="_blank" href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/">Bless You Boys.</a></i></p>
https://detroit.sbnation.com/detroit-tigers/2012/9/19/3359220/mlb-playoff-standings-2012JP Starkey2012-09-19T11:15:55-04:002012-09-19T11:15:55-04:00Tigers Vs. Athletics Preview: Game Time, TV Schedule And More
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/H1nkJZEKgNB4flMOTtEjqeuhPPs=/0x26:400x293/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/47828117/large_detroit.sbnation.com.minimal.66294.0.png" />
</figure>
<p><span>Justin Verlander</span> takes the mound Wednesday night for the <a href="https://www.blessyouboys.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Detroit Tigers</a> against the <a href="https://www.athleticsnation.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Oakland Athletics</a> while the Tigers try to keep within striking distance of the American League Central Division-leading <a href="https://www.southsidesox.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Chicago White Sox</a>.</p>
<p>Both the Tigers and the White Sox won Tuesday, so Chicago stayed three games ahead of the Tigers in the standings.</p>
<p>Verlander was outstanding in his only previous start this season against Oakland. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/boxes/OAK/OAK201205130.shtml">He went seven innings on May 13</a> and gave up one run on two hits with eight strikeouts and one walk. The reigning American League MVP and Cy Young Award winner has pitched at least six innings in 29 of his 30 starts this season.</p>
<p>For the Athletics, Brett Anderson will pitch in an effort to maintain the team's hold on the first of two Wild Card playoff spots. The Athletics are a half-game ahead of the <a href="https://www.pinstripealley.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">New York Yankees</a> and <a href="https://www.camdenchat.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Baltimore Orioles</a>, who are tied for the second spot. Anderson is making his sixth start since returning from Tommy John surgery, and he has a 1.93 ERA in 32 2/3 innings.</p>
<p>First pitch at Comerica Park is at 7:05 p.m. ET. The game will be televised on FS-D and ESPN.</p>
<p><i>For more on the Tigers, be sure to visit <a target="_blank" href="http://www.blessyouboys.com/">Bless You Boys</a>. Additional coverage on the Athletics can be found at <a href="http://www.athleticsnation.com/" target="_blank">Athletics Nation</a>, while <a target="_blank" href="http://mlb.sbnation.com/">Baseball Nation</a> is the place to go for news and analysis across the league.</i></p>
https://detroit.sbnation.com/detroit-tigers/2012/9/19/3357472/tigers-vs-athletics-game-preview-tv-schedulejlpennington