Series Preview: Twins at Tigers

The Tigers(16-21) aren't doing so hot. Actually, they're doing slightly worse than the Twins in their last 13 games. They've only won 2 of their last 13 games (in which we've won an outstanding 3). When we met earlier this year the Tigers swept us, though.

They're entering a lighter part of their schedule where they face us, the Rays and the Phillies. The Tigers need to win most of these games to get back into the playoff conversation.

Who's hot:

Juan Centeno: 6-10, 2 2B, HR

Victor Martinez: 13-25 (.520)

Who's not:

Oswaldo Arcia: 0-12, 7 SO

Justin Upton: 4-29

Rival SBNation site: Bless You Boys

Game 1

Monday, May 16th, 6:10 PM CDT

Probables: Jose Berrios vs Jordan Zimmermann

Byung Ho Park got a HR off of Zimmermann the first time they met, but there still isn't a lot of history against the Twins. This will be Jose Berrios' first time facing Detroit.

Game 2

Tuesday, May 17th, 6:10 PM CDT

Probables: Phil Hughes vs Mike Pelfrey (!)

Would you have guessed that Ricky Nolasco is the Twin with the most PA against Pelfrey (7)? The Twins should consult Nolasco on how to hit him. As for our serious hitters: Joe Mauer is 3-6 against our old friend Pelf.

Game 3

Wednesday, May 18th, 12:10 PM CDT

Probables: Ricky Nolasco vs Justin Verlander

Joe Mauer has hit Verlander very well over his career, with a .353/.450/.559 triple slash. In fact, Mauer is one of the best hitters against him.

Prediction: I think we've got at least a solid chance in the first two games and, because the Tigers are scuffling, I say we take the series 2-1.