Tiger Geist

I head to Seattle for a weekend, and Detroit rewards my short vacation with another series win;  this time a sweep over the Colorado Rockies.

Thought’s I had over the weekend:

• I know its Todd Jones’ first blown save of the year, but didn’t it seem like that was an important game?  A win brought Detroit right back to .500;  a loss just reminds the team of their losing ways.  Would have enjoyed a 1-2-3 inning a little better, but he was solid in today’s win.
• I’ve always liked Ryan Raburn, though I thought he’d hit for a higher average this year.  Nice to see him put together some solid games at the plate.
• Thames continues to impress me;  Sheffield has fallen back to earth.  Both need to continue to up their game to get get over the loss of Ordonez.
• Rough goings for Magglio, but he’s not getting any younger.  It also gives Leyland some interesting options with three outstanding defensive and left-handed outfielders (Joyce, Thomas, Granderson).
• Don’t expect we’ll see Guillen playing left field much anymore.

Questions I have:

• Who is Detroit’s best center fielder?  Brent Clevlen, Clete Thomas, Curtis Granderson, Raburn and apparently Brandon Inge can all play.  Raburn and Inge I imagine are in the lower tier;  Clevlen probably has the best arm.  At one point, does Detroit move Granderson?  I’m not suggesting they do, but who’s the best, and if they are ready to play every day, do they move Curtis around more next (or an upcoming) year?
• Does Detroit really have two starting pitchers who have losing records in the minors?  Why am I concerned that now, after they get over .500, we might get the rug pulled out from under us?  Its a great story, but seriously… Galarraga and Bonine?  Can this be reality?  (please say yes.. please say yes…)
• What trades are going to be made, if any?  Leyland hinted again today about Raburn’s versatility and a possible attraction for the NL.  I can’t imagine he has much value, however.
• With the pitching turn-around, has Brandon Inge solidified himself as the starting catcher in 2009?  Even with the obvious lack of catching depth in the farm system, would Detroit look to move him if they had the right offer?  The team’s play has really turned around, but Inge is still batting .215 and striking out nearly once for every three at-bats.

I’m tired… delayed flights, 90 degree weather in Seattle… and Tiger victories.  Great weekend.