2008 Gameday Press Passes

Subject: 2008 Gameday Press Passes Mon Mar 31, 2008 4:14 am

2008 Gameday Press Passes

Adobe Acrobat Reader Available - CLICK HERE

Detroit Tigers vs. Kansas City Royals - Monday, March 31, 2008
Comerica Park, Detroit, MI - Game Time - 1:05 p.m. EDT
7 pages - CLICK HERE TO SEE, DOWNLOAD, OR PRINT (PDF file)

WHAT’S ON TAP: The Tigers open the 2008 campaign this afternoon against the Kansas City Royals, the first game of a three-game series. Following Thursday afternoon’s game, Detroit will welcome the Chicago White Sox to Comerica Park for a three-game set beginning on Friday.

OPENING DAY NOTES: Today’s contest with the Kansas City Royals marks the 108th Opening Day in Tigers history. The club enters action today with a 50-56-1 record in the previous 107 season openers. The Tigers and Royals have matched up five times previously on Opening Day, including a 3-1 Tigers win in 2006 at Kansas City. Three of the prior four Opening Day games had been played in Kansas City, with the two clubs splitting
the four games. In 1977, the Tigers were defeated 7-4. Detroit picked up the win over the Royals in 1980 by the score of 5-1, before falling in the 1982 opener 4-2. The Tigers posted an 11-2 victory over the Royals at Comerica Park in 2005.

HOME OPENER NOTES: Today’s game against the Kansas City Royals marks the 108th home opener in Tigers history. The club enters today with a 56-50-1 record in the previous home openers, including a 3-5 mark at Comerica Park. The only time the Tigers have hosted the Royals in Detroit to open the season was in 2005, when Detroit posted an 11-2 win at Comerica Park.

SPRING RECAP: The Tigers concluded the spring season with a 15-14-3 record. The Tigers hit .291 (334x1148) with 71 doubles, 11 triples and 44 home runs this spring. Detroit topped all American League clubs with 44 home runs and a .487 slugging percentage this spring, while the club tied for second with 71 doubles and finished third with a .291 batting average.

THE READ ON THE ROSTER: Notes about Detroit’s 25-man, season-opening roster:
- 4 are on an Opening Day roster for the first time (Bazardo, Miner, Raburn, Thomas), compared to one in 2007.
- 6 were not active with the team in 2007 (Bautista, Cabrera, J. Jones, Renteria, Thomas, Willis).
- 8 have less than three years in the major leagues (Bautista, Bazardo, Grilli, Lopez, Miner, Raburn, Thomas, Verlander), compared to nine in 2007.
- 11 have five-or-more years in the majors (Bonderman, Guillen, Inge, J. Jones, T. Jones, Ordonez, Polanco, Renteria, Rodriguez, Rogers, Sheffield), compared to 10 in 2007.
- 3 have less than a full season in the majors (Bazardo, Raburn, Thomas), compared to one in 2007.
- 13 return from last season’s 25-man, season-opening roster (Bonderman, Guillen, Grilli, Inge, T. Jones, Ordonez, Polanco, Robertson, Rodriguez, Seay, Sheffield, Thames, Verlander).
- 11 have been selected all-stars (Cabrera, Guillen, T. Jones, Ordonez, Polanco, Renteria, Rodriguez, Rogers, Sheffield, Verlander, Willis).

SHEFF’S 20 STRAIGHT OPENING DAYS: Gary Sheffield is in an Opening Day lineup at the major league level for the 20th straight season today versus Kansas City, the longest such active streak in the majors. Sheffield’s streak dates back to the 1989 season with the Milwaukee Brewers.

FLAWLESS AT SECOND: Placido Polanco has not committed an error at second base since July 1, 2006 at Pittsburgh, a stretch of 181 errorless games. He now owns the major league record for second basemen, surpassing Luis Castillo’s old major league record of 143 games established May 30, 2006-June 5, 2007. Polanco has recorded 888 consecutive errorless chances during his streak, establishing a major league record for second basemen. Castillo held the previous record with 647 consecutive errorless chances.

INJURY UPDATE: OF Curtis Granderson (non-displaced fracture of the third metacarpal in right hand, 15-day DL on March 23), RHP Fernando Rodney (right shoulder tendinitis, 15-day DL on March 30), RHP Jordan Tata (fractured fifth metacarpal in right hand, 15-day DL on March 30), 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).

Subject: Tigers vs. Royals - Wednesday, April 2, 2008 Wed Apr 02, 2008 8:15 pm

2008 Gameday Press Passes

Adobe Acrobat Reader Available - CLICK HERE

Detroit Tigers vs. Kansas City Royals - Wednesday, April 2, 2008

Comerica Park, Detroit, MI - Game Time - 1:05 p.m. EDT
7 pages - CLICK HERE TO SEE, DOWNLOAD, OR PRINT (PDF file)

RECENT RESULTS: The Tigers suffered a 5-4 loss in 11 innings to the Kansas City Royals to open the 2008 season on Monday afternoon. Denny Bautista (0-1) allowed one run in two innings of relief to take the loss for Detroit. Carlos Guillen led the Tigers with three hits, including a double and solo home run. Miguel Cabrera homered in his Tigers debut, while Magglio Ordonez added two hits. The Tigers will battle the Royals in the second game of the 2008 campaign this afternoon at Comerica Park, the second game of a three game series. Following Thursday afternoon’s game, Detroit will welcome the Chicago White Sox to Comerica Park for a three-game set beginning on Friday.

PUDGE PACKS A PUNCH AGAINST ROYALS: Ivan Rodriguez enters today’s game with a .347 batting average (222x640), 92 runs scored, 51 doubles, four triples, 21 home runs and 102 RBI in 167 games during his career against the Kansas City Royals. He is tops among all active players in the majors with 221 hits and 51 doubles against the Royals, while he is fifth with a .347 batting average and 102 RBI.

HAPPY AT HOME: In 63 games at Comerica Park dating back to May 10, 2007, Magglio Ordonez is hitting .403 (95x236) with 54 runs scored, 22 doubles, 15 home runs and 59 RBI. He has reached base safely via a hit or walk in 58 of the games.

CLOSING IN ON 2,500 HITS: Ivan Rodriguez singled in the fourth inning on Monday versus Kansas City and he now has 2,496 hits during his career. With four more hits, he will become just the 87th player in major league history to reach 2,500 hits.

THE READ ON THE ROSTER: Notes about Detroit’s 25-man, season-opening roster:
- 4 are on an Opening Day roster for the first time (Bazardo, Miner, Raburn, Thomas), compared to one in 2007.
- 6 were not active with the team in 2007 (Bautista, Cabrera, J. Jones, Renteria, Thomas, Willis).
- 8 have less than three years in the major leagues (Bautista, Bazardo, Grilli, Lopez, Miner, Raburn, Thomas, Verlander), compared to nine in 2007.
- 11 have five-or-more years in the majors (Bonderman, Guillen, Inge, J. Jones, T. Jones, Ordonez, Polanco, Renteria, Rodriguez, Rogers, Sheffield), compared to 10 in 2007.
- 3 have less than a full season in the majors (Bazardo, Raburn, Thomas), compared to one in 2007.
- 13 return from last season’s 25-man, season-opening roster (Bonderman,
Guillen, Grilli, Inge, T. Jones, Ordonez, Polanco, Robertson, Rodriguez, Seay, Sheffield, Thames, Verlander).
- 11 have been selected all-stars (Cabrera, Guillen, T. Jones, Ordonez, Polanco, Renteria, Rodriguez, Rogers, Sheffield, Verlander, Willis).

RISP MANAGEMENT: Since both Placido Polanco and Magglio Ordonez joined the Tigers in 2005, they are among the best in the American League when hitting with runners in scoring position. Polanco is second in the league with a .374 batting average (113x302) with runners in scoring position, while Ordonez is third in the league with a .373 batting average (158x424) with runners in scoring position.

FLAWLESS AT SECOND: Placido Polanco has not committed an error at second base since July 1, 2006 at Pittsburgh, a stretch of 182 errorless games. He now owns the major league record for second basemen, surpassing Luis Castillo’s old major league record of 143 games established May 30, 2006-June 5, 2007. Polanco has recorded 893 consecutive errorless chances during his streak, establishing a major league record for second basemen. Castillo held the previous record with 647 consecutive errorless chances.

SPRING RECAP: The Tigers concluded the spring season with a 15-14-3 record. The Tigers hit .291 (334x1148) with 71 doubles, 11 triples and 44 home runs this spring. Detroit topped all American League clubs with 44 home runs and a .487 slugging percentage this spring, while the club tied for
second with 71 doubles and finished third with a .291 batting average.

INJURY UPDATE: OF Curtis Granderson (non-displaced fracture of the third metacarpal in right hand, 15-day DL on March 23), RHP Fernando Rodney (right shoulder tendinitis, 15-day DL on March 30), RHP Jordan Tata (fractured fifth metacarpal in right hand, 15-day DL on March 30), 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).

THE READ ON ROGERS: Rogers is making his first start of the season for the Tigers this afternoon against the Kansas City Royals.

MOVING UP THE ALL-TIME LEFTY LIST: Rogers is currently in 22nd place on the all-time win list among lefthanded pitchers with his 210 career victories. With one more win, he will match Billy Pierce for 21st on
that all-time list.

RECORD AT COMERICA PARK: Rogers is making his 32nd career appearance, 29th start, this afternoon at Comerica Park. In his previous 31 outings, he is 13-6 with a 3.32 ERA (178.2IP/66ER).

WINNING WAYS: Rogers is sixth among all active lefthanded pitchers with a .595 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____%
Randy Johnson__284__150__.654
Andy Pettitte___201__113__.640
Mark Mulder____103___60___.632
C.C. Sabathia___100___63__.613
Tom Glavine_____303__199__.604
Kenny Rogers____210__143__.595
Barry Zito_______113___77__.595
Mark Buehrle_____107___75__.588
Mike Hampton____138__101__.577
Jamie Moyer______230__178__.564

Subject: Re: 2008 Gameday Press Passes Thu Apr 10, 2008 7:50 am

Detroit Tigers Media Relations Department - 4/10/08

RECENT RESULTS:
The Tigers snapped a seven-game losing streak to open the 2008 season with a 7-2 win over the Boston Red Sox at Fenway Park last night. Jeremy Bonderman (1-1) picked up the win for Detroit, limiting Boston to two runs (one earned) in five innings of work. Edgar Renteria led the Tigers with three hits, including two doubles, and two RBI. Marcus Thames belted a two-run home run for Detroit, while Carlos Guillen added a solo home run. The Tigers continue a six-game road trip with the final game of a three-game series against the Red Sox at Fenway Park this evening. Detroit concludes the trip with a three-game series at U.S. Cellular Field against the Chicago White Sox beginning on Friday.

ROAD WARRIORS: Since the start of the 2006 season, the Tigers have compiled a 93-71 record on the road. Detroit’s 93 wins on the road are second in the majors during this stretch, trailing the 96 road wins by the New York Mets. The Tigers are tops among all American League clubs with a 4.12 ERA (1421.0IP/650ER) on the road during the stretch. The club is third in the American League during the stretch with a .281 batting average
(1656x5899) on the road.

ORDONEZ HITS WELL AGAINST WAKEFIELD: Magglio Ordonez enters tonight’s game with a .455 batting average (15x33) during his career versus Tim Wakefield. Ordonez is tops among all active major league players with a minimum of 30 plate appearances against Wakefield with a .455 batting average and .788 slugging percentage.

PITCHING PERFORMS AGAINST THE RED SOX: In nine games since the start of the 2007 season against the Boston Red Sox, Tigers pitchers combined to compile a 2.89 ERA (81.0IP/26ER). The 2.89 ERA is tops among all American League clubs against the Red Sox since the start of the 2007 season.

ORDONEZ SWINGS A HOT BAT AGAINST RED SOX: Magglio Ordonez enters tonight’s game with a .354 batting average (99x280), 47 runs scored, 26 doubles, 13 home runs and 55 RBI in 75 games during his career against the Boston Red Sox. He is currently second among active major leaguers with a .354 batting average and .420 on-base percentage against the Red Sox, while he is third with a .586 slugging percentage. Additionally, Ordonez is second among all active players with a .340 batting average (53x156) in 40 games at Fenway Park.

PUDGE REACHES 2,500 HITS: Ivan Rodriguez collected the 2,500th hit of his major league career last night at Boston, a single in the eighth inning off of Julian Tavarez. He became just the 87th player in major league history to reach 2,500 hits.

AMONG THE LEADERS SINCE 2005: Magglio Ordonez, Placido Polanco and Carlos Guillen are all among the American League’s best in batting average since the start of the 2005 season. Ordonez is second in the league during the stretch with a .324 batting average (494x1526), while Polanco is fifth with a .320 batting average (455x1420) and Guillen is ninth with a .311 batting average (457x1468).

RISP MANAGEMENT: Since both Placido Polanco and Magglio Ordonez joined the Tigers in 2005, they are among the best in the American League when hitting with runners in scoring position. Ordonez is second in the league with a .368 batting average (158x429) with runners in scoring position, while Polanco is third in the league with a .368 batting average (113x307) with runners in scoring position.

MARCUS MASHES: Marcus Thames belted his first home run of the season last night at Boston. Since the joining the Tigers in 2004, Thames has homered once every 14.50 at-bats (899AB/62HR) in 298 games. He is sixth among all American League players (with a minimum of 900 plate appearances) during this stretch with a home run once every 14.50 at-bats.

PUDGE STOPPING THE RUNNING GAME: Ivan Rodriguez threw out both runners attempting to steal last night at Boston. Rodriguez has thrown out 43.4 percent of baserunners attempting to steal (493x1135) during his career, tops among all active major league catchers.

TIGERS MINOR LEAGUERS OFF TO FAST START: The Tigers four full-season minor league affiliates have combined to post a 20-8 record so far in 2008. The 20 wins are the most by any organization’s minor league affiliates, while the combined .714 winning percentage is second.

INJURY UPDATE:
OF Curtis Granderson (non-displaced fracture of the third metacarpal in right hand, 15-day DL on March 23),
RHP Fernando Rodney (right shoulder tendinitis, 15-day DL on March 30), RHP Jordan Tata (fractured fifth metacarpal in right hand, 15-day DL on March 30),
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).

Subject: Re: 2008 Gameday Press Passes Sat Apr 12, 2008 7:07 am

Detroit Tigers Media Relations Department - 4/12/08

RECENT RESULTS: The Tigers won for the second time in the club’s last three games last night, posting a 5-2 win over the Chicago White Sox. Aquilino Lopez (1-0) held the White Sox to one run in four innings of relief to earn the win for Detroit. Todd Jones fired a perfect ninth inning for his first save of the season. Magglio Ordonez singled and drove in two runs for the Tigers, while Brandon Inge singled, doubled and drove in a run. The Tigers
continue a six-game road trip with the second game of a three-game series against the White Sox at U.S. Cellular Field this afternoon.

ROAD WARRIORS: Since the start of the 2006 season, the Tigers have compiled a 94-72 record on the road. Detroit’s 94 wins on the road are second in the majors during this stretch, trailing the 96 road wins by the New York Mets. The Tigers are tops among all American League clubs with a 4.16 ERA (1438.0IP/664ER) on the road during the stretch. The club is third in the American League during the stretch with a .281 batting average
(1677x5970) on the road.

TIGERS TRIO IN A GROOVE AGAINST WHITE SOX: Magglio Ordonez, Carlos Guillen and Placido Polanco are among the leaders in batting average against the Chicago White Sox during their respective careers. Ordonez is tied for fourth among active major leaguers with a .333 batting average (64x192) against Chicago, while Guillen is sixth with a .331 batting average (113x341) and Polanco is 10th with a .320 batting average (64x200).

TIGERS ON THE OFFENSIVE AT U.S. CELLULAR FIELD: In 10 games at U.S. Cellular Field since the start of the 2007 season, the Tigers are hitting .322 (119x369) with 63 runs scored, 24 doubles and 11 home runs. The Tigers are second among all major league clubs with a .322 batting average at U.S. Cellular Field since the start of the 2007 season.

MULTI-RBI MAGGLIO: Magglio Ordonez posted his first multi-RBI game of the season last night at Chicago, driving in two runs. It marked the 79th time since he joined the Tigers in 2005 that Ordonez has driven in at least two runs in a game. The Tigers have posted a 58-21 in the 79 games.

AMONG THE LEADERS SINCE 2005: Magglio Ordonez, Placido Polanco and Carlos Guillen are all among the American League’s best in batting average since the start of the 2005 season. Ordonez is fourth in the league during the stretch with a .323 batting average (496x1535), while Polanco is fifth with a .321 batting average (458x1427) and Guillen is ninth with a .311 batting average (459x1476).

RISP MANAGEMENT: Since both Placido Polanco and Magglio Ordonez joined the Tigers in 2005, they are among the best in the American League when hitting with runners in scoring position. Polanco is second in the league with a .373 batting average (116x311) with runners in scoring position, while Ordonez is third in the league with a .367 batting average (159x433) with runners in scoring position.

LOPEZ ON THE LEADER BOARDS: Aquilino Lopez matched a career high with four innings of relief last night at Chicago as he earned his first major league win since June 1, 2004 at Seattle. He is tops among all American League relievers with a 11.1 innings pitched this season, while he is tied for third with eight strikeouts.

THOMAS SPARKS TIGERS: Clete Thomas finished with two hits and an RBI last night at Chicago and he has now hit safely in six of his seven games this season. He is second among all American League rookies with a .476 batting average, while he is tied for second with 10 hits and three multi-hit games.

GRILLI GREAT ON THE ROAD: Jason Grilli tossed three scoreless innings of relief last night at Chicago. In 36 outings on the road dating back to August 1, 2006, he has posted a 5-1 record and 1.96 ERA (55.0IP/12ER).

MARCUS MASHES: Marcus Thames belted his first home run of the season on Wednesday night at Boston. Since the joining the Tigers in 2004, Thames has homered once every 14.56 at-bats (903AB/62HR) in 299 games. He is seventh among all American League players (with a minimum of 900 plate appearances) during this stretch with a home run once every 14.56 at-bats.

PUDGE STOPPING THE RUNNING GAME: Ivan Rodriguez threw out both runners attempting to steal on Wednesday night at Boston. Rodriguez has thrown out 43.4 percent of baserunners attempting to steal (493x1136) during his career, tops among all active major league catchers.

INJURY UPDATE: OF Curtis Granderson (non-displaced fracture of the third metacarpal in right hand, 15-day DL on March 23), RHP Fernando Rodney (right shoulder tendinitis, 15-day DL on March 30), RHP Jordan Tata (fractured fifth metacarpal in right hand, 15-day DL on March 30), 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).

Subject: Tuesday, April 15, 2008 Tue Apr 15, 2008 1:56 pm

Detroit Tigers Media Relations Department

Detroit Tigers vs. Minnesota Twins
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
Comerica Park, Detroit, MI
Game Time - 7:05 p.m. EDT

RECENT RESULTS: The Tigers defeated the Minnesota Twins 11-9 last night at Comerica Park to snap a six-game losing skid at home. Ivan Rodriguez drove in the tying runs with a two-run triple in the eighth inning and finished the game with a triple, home run and three RBI to lead the Tigers offense. Carlos Guillen finished with three hits and three RBI, while Magglio Ordonez added three hits and Gary Sheffield, Miguel Cabrera and Edgar Renteria each finished with a pair of hits. Francis Beltran (1-0) tossed a scoreless eighth inning to earn the victory, while Todd Jones fired a scoreless ninth for the save. Detroit will battle the Twins in the final game of a two-game series tonight at Comerica Park, before heading to Cleveland and Toronto as part of a six-game road trip beginning tomorrow evening.

GUILLEN AMONG THE EARLY LEADERS: Carlos Guillen finished last night’s game against the Twins with three hits and ranks among the early leaders in a number of categories. Guillen ranks third in the American League with a .479 on-base percentage, fourth with a .641 slugging percentage, tied for fifth with seven extra-base hits, tied for sixth with five doubles and eighth with a .359 batting average.

LATE-INNING SCORING: The Tigers posted six runs on six hits in the eighth inning last night against the Twins, marking the most runs scored by a Tigers team in the eighth inning or later since also scoring six runs in the eighth inning on April 19, 2004 at Cleveland.

JONES MATCHES JONES: Todd Jones fired a scoreless ninth inning last night against the Twins to earn the 303rd save of his career and move into a tie for 19th place on the all-time list with Doug Jones. Jones needs one save to move into a tie with Jeff Montgomery for 18th place on the all-time list.

COMEBACK TRAIL: The Tigers overcame a five-run deficit last night to secure an 11-9 victory over the Twins at Comerica Park. The five-run comeback is the most by a Tigers team since also coming back from a five-run deficit to win 7-6 against the Cleveland Indians on August 4, 2006 at Comerica Park.

HAPPY AT HOME: In 69 games at Comerica Park dating back to May 10, 2007, Magglio Ordonez is hitting .396 (103x260) with 56 runs scored, 24 doubles, 15 home runs and 60 RBI. He has reached base safely via a hit or walk in 63 of the games.

POLANCO PRODUCES AGAINST THE TWINS: Placido Polanco enters tonight’s game against Minnesota with a .335 batting average (66x197) in 46 games against the club. He is sixth among all active major league players with a .335 batting average against the Twins.

MAGGLIO’S A MENACE VERSUS MINNESOTA: Magglio Ordonez has hit safely in 26 of his last 31 games against the Minnesota Twins dating back to May 17, 2006. During the 31-game stretch, Ordonez is hitting .358 (39x109) with 13 doubles, four home runs and 27 RBI.

AMONG THE LEADERS SINCE 2005: Magglio Ordonez, Placido Polanco and Carlos Guillen are all among the American League’s best in batting average since the start of the 2005 season. Ordonez is third in the league during the stretch with a .323 batting average (499x1544), while Polanco is fifth with a .320 batting average (459x1435) and Guillen is seventh with a .312 batting average (462x1480).

RISP MANAGEMENT: Since both Placido Polanco and Magglio Ordonez joined the Tigers in 2005, they are among the best in the American League when hitting with runners in scoring position. Polanco is second in the league with a .373 batting average (117x314) with runners in scoring position, while Ordonez is third in the league with a .367 batting average
(160x436) with runners in scoring position.

RUNNING WILD: The Tigers have been successful in all eight of their stolen bases attempts this season. Dating back to September 18, 2007, the club has been successful in each of its last 18 stolen bases attempts.

THOMAS AMONG ROOKIE LEADERS: Clete Thomas has now hit safely in seven of his 10 games with the Tigers this season. He is tied for second among all American League rookies with 11 hits and three multi-hit games, while he is third with a .344 batting average and 15 total bases.

MARCUS MASHES: Marcus Thames belted his first home run of the season on Wednesday night at Boston. Since the joining the Tigers in 2004, Thames has homered once every 14.63 at-bats (907AB/62HR) in 300 games. He is eighth among all American League players (with a minimum of 900 plate appearances) during this stretch with a home run once every 14.63 at-bats. The Tigers are 40-18 in the 58 games Thames has homered.

INJURY UPDATE: OF Curtis Granderson (non-displaced fracture of the third metacarpal in right hand, 15-day DL on March 23), RHP Fernando Rodney (right shoulder tendinitis, 15-day DL on March 30), RHP Jordan Tata (fractured fifth metacarpal in right hand, 15-day DL on March 30), LHP Dontrelle Willis (hyperextension of right knee, 15-day DL on April 12), 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).

Subject: 2008 Gameday Press Passes - April 18, 2008 Fri Apr 18, 2008 8:48 pm

2008 Gameday Press Passes

Adobe Acrobat Reader Available - CLICK HERE

Detroit Tigers vs. Toronto Blue Jays - Friday, April 18, 2008

Rogers Centre, Toronto, ON - Game Time - 7:07 p.m. EDT
7 pages - CLICK HERE TO SEE, DOWNLOAD, OR PRINT (PDF file)

RECENT RESULTS: The Tigers lost 11-1 to the Cleveland Indians last night at Progressive Field, snapping the club’s three-game winning streak. Justin Verlander (0-3) allowed five runs on seven hits in five innings of work to take the loss. Miguel Cabrera drove in the lone Tigers run with a sacrifice fly, while Brandon Inge and Clete Thomas both doubled to round out the offensive attack. Detroit continues a six-game road trip tonight with the first game of a four-game series against the Toronto Blue Jays at Rogers Centre. Following the conclusion of the current road trip, the club heads home for a six-game homestand featuring visits from the Texas Rangers and the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim.

LOOKING FOR THE LEFTY: The Tigers face lefthanded pitcher David Purcey tonight as they battle the Toronto Blue Jays at Rogers Centre. Since the start of the 2007 season, the Tigers have compiled a .291 batting average (417x1433) against lefthanded pitchers. Detroit leads the American League during this stretch with a .476 slugging percentage against lefthanded pitching, while the club is second with a .291 batting average. Since the start of the 2007 season, Detroit has posted a 30-16 record in games started by lefthanded pitchers.

JACQUE NORTH OF THE BORDER: Jacque Jones is batting .349 (61x175) with 12 doubles, a triple, nine home runs and 27 RBI in 46 career games against the Toronto Blue Jays. He ranks second among active players with the .349 batting average, while he is sixth with a .583 slugging percentage.

CABRERA HEATING UP: Miguel Cabrera has hit safely in eight of his last nine games dating back to April 9. During that stretch, Cabrera is batting .361 (13x36) with six runs scored, two doubles, two home runs and 10 RBI. He has also collected at least one RBI in each of his last four games, one shy of his career high, last accomplished from July 27-August 1, 2007 with the Florida Marlins.

ROAD WARRIORS: Since the start of the 2006 season, the Tigers have compiled a 95-75 record on the road. Detroit’s 95 wins on the road are second in the majors during this stretch, trailing the 96 road wins by the New York Mets. The Tigers are tops among all American League clubs with a 4.25 ERA (1471.0IP/695ER) on the road during the stretch. The club is third in the American League during the stretch with a .280 batting average
(1709x6104) on the road.

MAGGLIO CLOSING IN ON 1,000 RBI: Magglio Ordonez finished Tuesday night’s game against Minnesota with two RBI and is two RBI shy of reaching 1,000 in his major league career. Ordonez would become just the second Venezuelan native to reach 1,000 RBI, joining Andres Galarraga (1,425).

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MIGUEL: Miguel Cabrera is celebrating his 25th birthday today.

GUILLEN AMONG THE EARLY LEADERS: Carlos Guillen ranks among the early leaders in the American League in a number of categories. Guillen ranks second with a .475 on-base percentage, third with a .653 slugging percentage, fourth with a .367 batting average and tied for eighth with eight extra-base hits.

RUNNING WILD: The Tigers have been successful in all nine of their stolen bases attempts this season. Dating back to September 18, 2007, the club has been successful in each of its last 19 stolen bases attempts.

BELTRAN OUTRIGHTED TO TOLEDO: The Tigers today announced that righthanded pitcher Francis Beltran has been outrighted to Triple A Toledo. Beltran posted a 1-0 record and 5.79 ERA (4.2IP/3ER) in five appearances with the Tigers this season.

GRANDERSON SET TO BEGIN REHAB ASSIGNMENT: Curtis Granderson is scheduled to begin a rehab assignment tonight at Single A West Michigan as the Whitecaps battle the Burlington Bees at Fifth Third Ballpark. Granderson has been sidelined since March 23 with a non-displaced fracture of the third metacarpal in his right hand.

INJURY UPDATE: OF Curtis Granderson (non-displaced fracture of the third metacarpal in right hand, 15-day DL on March 23), RHP Fernando Rodney (right shoulder tendinitis, 15-day DL on March 30), RHP Jordan Tata (fractured fifth metacarpal in right hand, 15-day DL on March 30), LHP Dontrelle Willis (hyperextension of right knee, 15-day DL on April 12), 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).

Subject: Re: 2008 Gameday Press Passes Tue Apr 22, 2008 1:04 pm

2008 Gameday Press Passes

Adobe Acrobat Reader Available - CLICK HERE

Detroit Tigers vs. Texas Rangers
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Comerica Park, Detroit, MI
Game Time - 7:05 p.m. EDT

7 pages - CLICK HERE TO SEE, DOWNLOAD, OR PRINT (PDF file)

RECENT RESULTS: The Tigers defeated the Toronto Blue Jays 5-1 yesterday afternoon at Rogers Centre. Armando Galarraga (2-0) held the Blue Jays scoreless over 5.1 innings of work to earn the victory. Ivan Rodriguez led the Tigers offense with four hits, including a double and an RBI. Edgar Renteria finished the game with two hits, including a solo home run. Ryan Raburn collected two RBI to round out the Tigers offense. The Tigers kick off a six-game homestand tonight with the first game of a three-game series against the Texas Rangers. The Los Angeles Angels round out the homestand with a three-game series beginning Friday.

ORDONEZ ON TARGET AGAINST RANGERS: In 72 career games against the Texas Rangers, Magglio Ordonez is batting .360 (95x264) with 52 runs scored, 21 doubles, 13 home runs and 48 RBI. He is third among active players with the .360 batting average, while he is seventh with a .587 slugging percentage and 10th with a .410 on-base percentage.

RENTERIA’S RED HOT: Edgar Renteria has been swinging a hot bat, hitting safely in 11 of his last 13 games dating back to April 9. Renteria is batting .360 (18x50) with 10 runs scored, three doubles, three home runs and 12 RBI during that stretch. He is tied for third in the American League during that stretch with three home runs, while he is tied for fourth with 12 RBI and a .600 slugging percentage.

HAPPY AT HOME: In 70 games at Comerica Park dating back to May 10, 2007, Magglio Ordonez is hitting .398 (105x264) with 58 runs scored, 25 doubles, 16 home runs and 62 RBI. He has reached base safely via a hit or walk in 64 of the games.

LOPEZ ON THE LEADER BOARDS: Aquilino Lopez tossed 1.1 scoreless innings yesterday afternoon against the Blue Jays and remains among the American League relief pitching leaders. He is currently tied for the lead among league relievers with 14.1 innings pitched, while he is tied for eighth with 10 strikeouts and tied for ninth with nine appearances.

CABRERA SHARES AL PLAYER OF THE WEEK AWARD: Major League Baseball announced yesterday that Miguel Cabrera was named the American League Co-Player of the Week for the week of April 14th. Cabrera shared the award with Boston’s Manny Ramirez after batting .429 (12x28) with four doubles, two home runs and 11 RBI during the week. It is the fifth weekly honor for Cabrera and his first in the American League.

WALK THIS WAY: The Tigers have collected 83 walks through the first 20 games this season and rank third in the American League. Additionally, five Tigers players have collected three-or-more walks in a game this season, matching the club’s total for games with at least three walks in 2007.

MAGGLIO CLOSING IN ON 1,000 RBI: Magglio Ordonez finished Friday night’s game against Toronto with one RBI and is now one RBI shy of reaching 1,000 in his major league career. Ordonez would become just the second Venezuelan native to reach 1,000 RBI, joining Andres Galarraga (1,425).

GUILLEN AMONG THE EARLY LEADERS: Carlos Guillen ranks among the early leaders in the American League in a number of categories. Guillen ranks fourth with a .576 slugging
percentage, while he is tied for fourth with seven doubles and 10 extra-base hits, fifth with a .429 on-base percentage and ninth with a .333 batting average.

RUNNING WILD: The Tigers have been successful in all 10 of their stolen bases attempts this season. Dating back to September 18, 2007, the club has been successful in each of
its last 20 stolen bases attempts.

CRUCETA ASSIGNED TO TRIPLE A TOLEDO: Francisco Cruceta has been assigned to Triple A Toledo today, an assignment that can last a maximum of 16 days. Cruceta was signed by the Tigers as a free agent on November 30, 2007.

GRANDY’S REHAB ASSIGNMENT: Curtis Granderson started in center field for Single A West Michigan last night as part of a rehab assignment. He finished the game 1x4 with a run scored, triple and an RBI and is batting .353 (6x17) with a double and two triples in four games during his rehab assignment. Granderson will continue the rehab assignment this evening at Single A West Michigan as the Whitecaps battle the Beloit Snappers at Fifth Third Ballpark. Granderson has been sidelined since March 23 with a non-displaced fracture of the third metacarpal in his right hand.

INJURY UPDATE: OF Curtis Granderson (non-displaced fracture of the third metacarpal in right hand, 15-day DL on March 23), RHP Fernando Rodney (right shoulder tendinitis, 15-day DL on March 30), LHP Dontrelle Willis (hyperextension of right knee, 15-day DL on April 12), 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).

JUSTIN’S CASE: In his third full season at the major league level, Verlander will make his fifth start of the season tonight against the Texas Rangers.

OPENING DAY NOD: Verlander made the first Opening Day start of his major league career on March 31 against the Royals. He became the third different
Tigers pitcher to start Opening Day during Jim Leyland’s tenure as manager. Kenny Rogers started in 2006, while Jeremy Bonderman started in 2007.

RECEIVING SUPPORT FROM HIS TEAMMATES: In his 67 career starts at the major league level, Verlander has received 6.59 runs per nine innings of
support. Since the start of the 2006 season, he is tops among all major league pitchers with 6.75 runs per nine innings of support.

RECORD AT COMERICA PARK: Verlander is making his 35th career start at Comerica Park this evening. In his previous 34 starts, he is 18-8 with a 3.80 ERA (210.2IP/89ER).

NO-NO: Verlander fired the first no-hitter in Comerica Park history on June 12, 2007 versus Milwaukee, the sixth no-hitter in Tigers history. It was the first no-hitter by a Tigers pitcher since Jack Morris on April 7, 1984 against the Chicago White Sox at Comiskey Park. Verlander became the first Tigers pitcher to toss a no-hitter in Detroit since Virgil Trucks on May 15, 1952 versus Washington at Briggs Stadium.

MISCELLANEOUS NOTES: Verlander was selected by the Tigers in the first round (second overall) of the June 2004 draft. He was selected to the American League’s all-star squad for the first time in 2007. Verlander was named the American League Rookie of the Year in 2006.

Subject: Wednesday, April 23, 2008 Wed Apr 23, 2008 11:54 am

2008 Gameday Press Passes

Adobe Acrobat Reader Available - CLICK HERE

Detroit Tigers vs. Texas Rangers
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Comerica Park, Detroit, MI
Game Time - 7:05 p.m. EDT

7 pages - CLICK HERE TO SEE, DOWNLOAD, OR PRINT (PDF file)

RECENT RESULTS: The Tigers defeated the Texas Rangers 10-2 last night at Comerica Park, marking the club’s sixth win in the last nine games. Justin Verlander (1-3) started for the Tigers and limited the Rangers to one run on six hits to earn the victory. Edgar Renteria led the Tigers offense with four hits, including a double and an RBI, while Ramon Santiago finished with a double, home run and three RBI. Magglio Ordonez and Miguel Cabrera belted back-to-back solo home runs for the Tigers. The Tigers continue a six-game homestand tonight with the second game of a three-game series against the Texas Rangers. The Los Angeles Angels round out the homestand with a three-game series beginning Friday.

GRANDERSON RECALLED FROM REHAB ASSIGNMENT, ACTIVATED FROM DL: Curtis Granderson was recalled from his rehab assignment with Single A West Michigan and activated from the disabled list prior to tonight’s game against Texas. Granderson, who had been sidelined since March 23 with a non-displaced fracture of the third metacarpal in his right hand, batted .350 (7x20) with a double and two triples in five games with West Michigan and Triple A Toledo. To make room for Granderson on the active roster, the club optioned outfielder Clete Thomas to Triple A Toledo prior to tonight’s game. Thomas batted .295 (18x61) with four doubles, a triple and five RBI in 18 games with the Tigers.

CABRERA DRIVING ‘EM IN: Miguel Cabrera finished last night’s game against Texas with two RBI and has collected at least one RBI in seven of his last nine games, dating back to April 14. During that stretch, Cabrera is tied for the American League lead with 13 RBI, while he is tied for second with three home runs, tied for fifth with four doubles and tied for sixth with a .743 slugging percentage.

LONG TIME BETWEEN LONGBALLS: Ramon Santiago belted a two-run home run last night against the Rangers, his first home run since August 1, 2003 at Minnesota. The home run snapped a streak of 417 plate appearances without a home run for Santiago.

GRANDY’S MULTI-HIT MAGIC: Since the start of the 2006 season, Curtis Granderson has collected 102 multi-hit games. The Tigers have posted a 71-31 record in the 102 games Granderson has collected multiple hits and he has batted .512 (236x461) with 48 doubles, 17 triples, 35 home runs and 107 RBI.

ORDONEZ ON TARGET AGAINST RANGERS: In 73 career games against the Texas Rangers, Magglio Ordonez is batting .358 (96x268) with 53 runs scored, 21 doubles, 14 home runs and 49 RBI. He is third among active players with the .358 batting average, while he is seventh with a .587 slugging percentage and 10th with a .410 on-base percentage.

RENTERIA’S RED HOT: Edgar Renteria has been swinging a hot bat, hitting safely in 12 of his last 14 games dating back to April 9. Renteria is batting .407 (22x54) with 12 runs scored, four doubles, three home runs and 13 RBI during that stretch. He is second in the American League during that stretch with 22 hits, while he is fourth with a .648 slugging percentage and tied for fourth with 13 RBI.

HAPPY AT HOME: In 71 games at Comerica Park dating back to May 10, 2007, Magglio Ordonez is hitting .396 (106x268) with 59 runs scored, 25 doubles, 17 home runs and 63 RBI. He has reached base safely via a hit or walk in 65 of the games.

MAGGLIO COLLECTS HIS 1,000TH RBI: Magglio Ordonez belted a solo home run in the third inning last night against Texas to reach 1,000 RBI in his major league career. Ordonez is the second Venezuelan native to reach 1,000 RBI, joining Andres Galarraga (1,425).

RUNNING WILD: The Tigers have been successful in all 10 of their stolen bases attempts this season. Dating back to September 18, 2007, the club has been successful in each of
its last 20 stolen bases attempts.

CRUCETA’S ASSIGNMENT TO TRIPLE A TOLEDO: Francisco Cruceta made his first appearance with Triple A Toledo last night, working three scoreless innings and striking out six batters. Cruceta was assigned to Toledo prior to yesterday’s game and the assignment can last a maximum of 16 days. Cruceta was signed by the Tigers as a free agent on November 30, 2007.

INJURY UPDATE:
- RHP Fernando Rodney (right shoulder tendinitis, 15-day DL on March 30),
- LHP Dontrelle Willis (hyperextension of right knee, 15-day DL on April 12),
- 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).

------------------------------------------------------------------------

THE READ ON ROGERS: Rogers is making his fifth start of the season for the Tigers tonight against the Texas Rangers.

MOVING UP THE ALL-TIME LEFTY LIST: Rogers is currently tied with Billy Pierce for 21st place on the all-time win list among lefthanded pitchers with his 211 career victories. With five more wins, he will match Wilbur Cooper for 20th on that all-time list.

RECORD AT COMERICA PARK: Rogers is making his 33rd career appearance, 30th start, tonight at Comerica Park. In his previous 32 outings, he is 13-7
with a 3.31 ERA (184.2IP/68ER).

TOUGH ON THE LEFTIES: Rogers has limited lefthanded batters to a .199 batting average (50x251) since joining the Tigers in 2006, including a .200 batting average (4x20) in three starts this season.

WINNING WAYS: Rogers is seventh among all active lefthanded pitchers with a .591 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 - 95 - 46 ----.674
Randy Johnson -284 -151 -- .653
Andy Pettitte -- 204 -114 -- .642
Mark Mulder ---- 103 - 60 --- .632
C.C. Sabathia -- 101 -- 66 --- .605
Tom Glavine ---- 303 - 200 -- .602
Kenny Rogers --- 211 - 146 -- .591
Mark Buehrle ---- 108 -- 77 -- .584
Barry Zito -------- 113 -- 81 -- .582
Mike Hampton --- 138 - 101 -- .577

Subject: Re: 2008 Gameday Press Passes Fri Apr 25, 2008 12:58 pm

2008 Gameday Press Passes

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Detroit Tigers vs. Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim
Friday, April 25, 2008
Comerica Park, Detroit, MI
Game Time - 7:05 p.m. EDT

7 pages - CLICK HERE TO SEE, DOWNLOAD, OR PRINT (PDF file)

RECENT RESULTS: The Tigers completed a three-game sweep of the Texas Rangers with an 8-2 win at Comerica Park yesterday afternoon, the club’s eighth win in its last 11 games. Magglio Ordonez belted two home runs and drove in four runs to lead the Tigers attack, while Curtis Granderson, Brandon Inge and Ryan Raburn all added a solo home run. It marked the fourth time the Tigers have connected for five-or-more home runs in Comerica Park history. Zach Miner (1-1) picked up the win in relief for Detroit, tossing 3.1 scoreless innings. The Tigers continue their six-game homestand with the first game of a three-game series against the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim this evening.

RUNS ABOUND AT COMERICA PARK: The Tigers have scored 37 runs in the club’s last three games, marking the most runs scored by the Tigers in a three-game stretch since the club scored 47 runs August 10-12, 1993. Detroit has won each of its last five games at home, scoring a total of 54 runs during the winning streak. Tigers hitters have combined to hit .341 (58x170) with 12 doubles, three triples and 15 home runs in the last five games at Comerica Park.

WINNING WAYS: Detroit posted its eighth win in the club’s last 11 games yesterday afternoon against Texas. During the 11-game stretch dating back to April 14, the Tigers are hitting .304 (116x381) with 86 runs scored, 28 doubles, three triples and 19 home runs. The Tigers are leading all American League clubs with 86 runs scored, 19 home runs and a .543 slugging percentage during this stretch, while they are second with a .304 batting average.

MAGGLIO MASHES AGAINST ANGELS: Magglio Ordonez enters the game tonight against the Angels with a .329 batting average (95x289) in 74 games against the club, while he has collected 16 doubles, a triple, 21 home runs and 56 RBI. Ordonez is second among all active major league players with a .609 slugging percentage against the Angels, while he is third with a home run once every 13.76 at-bats and fifth with a .329 batting average.

BULLISH BEHAVIOR: Over the club’s last seven games, Tigers relievers have compiled a 0.72 ERA (25.0IP/2ER). During the seven-game stretch, opposing batters have hit .157 (13x83) against club relievers. Detroit’s bullpen has not been scored upon in its last 12.0 innings of work dating back to Tuesday night versus Texas.

WALK THIS WAY: The Tigers collected five walks yesterday against the Rangers, and the club is leading the American League with 103 walks through its first 23 games of the season. Tigers hitters have drawn five-or-more walks in each of the club’s last five games, including a season-high 10 walks on Wednesday night versus Texas. The Tigers have drawn five-or-more walks 11 times so far in 2008. Detroit did not record its 11th five-or-walk game until June 1 during the 2007 season, the club’s 54th game of the season.

RENTERIA’S RED HOT: Edgar Renteria has hit safely in 14 of his last 16 games dating back to April 9. During that stretch, Renteria is batting .403 (25x62) with 14 runs scored, five doubles, three home runs and 14 RBI. He is tied for the American League lead during that stretch with 25 hits, while he is second with a .403 batting average, fourth with a .629 slugging percentage and tied for fifth with 14 RBI.

HAPPY AT HOME: In 73 games at Comerica Park dating back to May 10, 2007, Magglio Ordonez is hitting .400 (110x275) with 62 runs scored, 25 doubles, 19 home runs and 69 RBI. He has reached base safely via a hit or walk in 67 of the games.

LEADING OFF IN GRAND STYLE: Curtis Granderson connected for his 14th career lead-off home run yesterday afternoon against the Texas Rangers. With the lead-off home run, Granderson now holds sole possession of third place all-time in Tigers history (snapped a tie with Tony Phillips). Only Lou Whitaker (23) and Dick McAuliffe (19) have homered to lead off a game more times than Granderson in Tigers history.

MULTI-RBI MAGGLIO: Magglio Ordonez posted his fourth multi-RBI game of the season yesterday against the Rangers, driving in four runs. It marked the 82nd time since he joined the Tigers in 2005 that Ordonez has driven in at least two runs in a game. The Tigers have posted a 61-21 record in the 82 games.

CRUCETA’S ASSIGNMENT TO TRIPLE A TOLEDO: Francisco Cruceta made his first appearance with Triple A Toledo on Tuesday night, working three scoreless innings and striking out six batters. Cruceta was assigned to Toledo prior to Tuesday’s game and the assignment can last a maximum of 16 days. Cruceta was signed by the Tigers as a free agent on November 30, 2007.

INJURY UPDATE:
RHP Fernando Rodney (right shoulder tendinitis, 15-day DL on March 30),
LHP Dontrelle Willis (hyperextension of right knee, 15-day DL on April 12),
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).

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

NOTES ON NATE: In his fifth full season with the Tigers, Robertson makes his fifth start of the season this evening against the Angels.

LONG-TERM DEAL: Robertson agreed to a three-year contract during the off-season, keeping him in a Tigers uniform through the 2010 season.

PROUD PAPA: Robertson and his wife, Kristin, welcomed the couple’s first child on February 28, a baby boy named Wyatt Dale.

MOVING UP THE TIGERS LEFTY LIST: Robertson is making his 139th start as a member of the Detroit Tigers this evening, moving him past Hank Aguirre (138) for sole possession of ninth 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.

TAKING THE BALL EVERY FIFTH DAY: Since the start of the 2004 season, Robertson has started 130 games for the Tigers. During that stretch, he is fifth among all American League pitchers with the 130 games started. Additionally, Robertson is eighth in the league with 801.1 innings pitched during the stretch.

RECORD AT COMERICA PARK: Robertson is making his 74th appearance, 73rd start, at Comerica Park during his career tonight against the Angels. In his previous 73 outings, he is 22-26 with a 4.37 ERA (445.1IP/216ER).

LIMITING THE LEFTIES: During his major league career, Robertson has limited lefties to a .253 batting average (189x748). During that stretch, he has held lefties to a .301 on-base percentage and .352 slugging percentage.

LIMITING THE LEFTIES, PART II: Since the start of the 2004 season, Robertson has held lefthanded opposition to a .248 batting average (176x709). During that same stretch, Robertson has surrendered only nine home runs to lefthanded hitters, tied for third-fewest in the American League during that stretch. The following is a list of the top six league pitchers in fewest home runs allowed to lefthanded batters since the start of the 2004 season (minimum of 500 batters faced):

Pitcher - HR
Mariano Rivera - 5
Joe Nathan - 8
Jason Davis - 9
Nate Robertson - 9
Mike Timlin - 9

MISCELLANEOUS NOTES: Robertson was acquired by the Tigers from the Florida Marlins in a five-player deal on January 11, 2003. He originally signed with the Marlins as a fifth-round selection in the June 1999 draft out of Wichita State University.

Subject: Tigers vs. L A Angels - April 26, 2008 Sat Apr 26, 2008 6:58 am

2008 Gameday Press Passes

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Detroit Tigers vs. Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim
Saturday, April 26, 2008
Comerica Park, Detroit, MI
Game Time - 3:55 p.m. EDT

7 pages - CLICK HERE TO SEE, DOWNLOAD, OR PRINT (PDF file)

RECENT RESULTS: Detroit’s four-game winning streak was snapped with a 4-3 loss to the Angels last night at Comerica Park. Nate Robertson (0-3) took the loss for the Tigers after allowing four runs in seven innings. Curtis Granderson belted a solo home run for the Tigers, while Miguel Cabrera added a single and an RBI. Placido Polanco added a single and double for Detroit. The Tigers continue their six-game homestand with the second game of a three-game series against the Angels this afternoon. After an off day on Monday, the Tigers head out for a six-game road trip to New York and Minnesota.

RABURN TO BE HONORED BY DSBA: Prior to today’s game, Ryan Raburn will receive his 2007 Tigers Rookie of the Year Award from the Detroit Sports Broadcasters Association.

WINNING WAYS: Detroit has won eight of the club’s last 12 games despite suffering a 4-3 loss to the Angels last night. During the 12-game stretch dating back to April 14, Detroit is hitting .295 (122x414) with 89 runs scored, 29 doubles, three triples and 20 home runs. Detroit is leading all American League clubs with 89 runs scored, 20 home runs and a .524 slugging percentage during the stretch, while the club is second with a .295 batting average.

MAGGLIO MASHES AGAINST ANGELS: Magglio Ordonez enters the game today against the Angels with a .324 batting average (95x293) in 75 games against the club, while he has collected 16 doubles, a triple, 21 home runs and 57 RBI. Ordonez is second among all active major league players with a .601 slugging percentage against the Angels, while he is fourth with a home run once every 13.95 at-bats and sixth with a .324 batting average.

BULLISH BEHAVIOR: Over the club’s last eight games, Tigers relievers have compiled a 0.67 ERA (27.0IP/2ER). During the eight-game stretch, opposing batters have hit .156 (14x90) against club relievers. Detroit’s bullpen has not been scored upon in its last 14.0 innings of work dating back to Tuesday night versus Texas.

WALK THIS WAY: The Tigers collected four walks last night against the Angels, and the club is leading the American League with 107 walks through its first 24 games of the season. The Tigers have drawn five-or-more walks 11 times so far in 2008. Detroit did not record its 11th five-or-walk game until June 1 during the 2007 season, the club’s 54th game of the season.

RENTERIA’S RED HOT: Edgar Renteria has hit safely in 15 of his last 17 games dating back to April 9. During that stretch, Renteria is batting .394 (26x66) with 14 runs scored, five doubles, three home runs and 14 RBI. He is second in the American League with a .394 batting average during the stretch, while he is tied for second with 26 hits, fifth with a .606 slugging percentage and tied for eighth with 14 RBI.

HAPPY AT HOME: In 74 games at Comerica Park dating back to May 10, 2007, Magglio Ordonez is hitting .394 (110x279) with 62 runs scored, 25 doubles, 19 home runs and 70 RBI. He has reached base safely via a hit or walk in 67 of the games.

LOVING THE LONGBALL: Curtis Granderson belted his second home run of the season last night against the Angels and the Tigers have now homered in five straight games. During the five-game stretch, the Tigers have connected for 12 home runs. Additionally, the Tigers have homered in each of the club’s last six games at Comerica Park. The Tigers have compiled a 9-5 record in the 14 games the club has homered this season.

FLASHING THE LEATHER: The Tigers have committed just one error in the club’s last six games, a stretch of 228 total chances (.996 fielding percentage). Over the club’s last 11 games, Detroit has compiled a .992 fielding percentage (398TC/3ER).

TV UPDATE: The Tigers game at New York on Tuesday night will be simulcast on FSN Detroit and FSN-PLUS until 10:00 p.m. At that time, FSN Detroit will shift to the Red Wings game, while the conclusion of the Tigers game will air on FSN-PLUS.

CRUCETA’S ASSIGNMENT TO TRIPLE A TOLEDO: Francisco Cruceta made his second appearance with Triple A Toledo last night at Columbus, earning the win as he fanned four batters in two innings of work. In his two outings with the Mud Hens, he is 1-0 with a 1.80 ERA (5.0IP/1ER) and 10 strikeouts. Cruceta was assigned to Toledo on April 22 and the assignment can last a maximum of 16 days. Cruceta was signed by the Tigers as a free agent on November 30, 2007.

INJURY UPDATE:
RHP Fernando Rodney (right shoulder tendinitis, 15-day DL on March 30),
LHP Dontrelle Willis (hyperextension of right knee, 15-day DL on April 12),
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).
------------------------------------------------------------

ARMANDO’S ANTIDOTE: Galarraga will make his third start with the Tigers this afternoon against the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim. His contract was recalled from Triple A Toledo on April 16.

A FIRST TIME FOR EVERYTHING: In his second major league start on April 16 at Cleveland, Galarraga earned his first major league victory.

GOING FOR THREE: Galarraga takes the mound this afternoon against the Angels looking for his third straight win to begin his Tigers career. With a win today, Galarraga would be the first Tigers rookie pitcher to win each of his first three starts with the club since Kip Young won his first four starts for Detroit as a rookie July 24-August 9, 1978.

ROUGH ON THE RIGHTIES: Galarraga has held righthanded batters hitless (0x21) in his first two starts with the Tigers. In his two starts with Toledo, Galarraga limited righthanded batters to a .100 batting average (2x20).

RECORD AT COMERICA PARK: Galarraga is making his first career appearance at Comerica Park this evening.

VENEZUELAN HERITAGE: Galarraga is the eighth Venezuelan native to pitch in a game for the Tigers, joining Yorman Bazardo, Oscar Henriquez, Wilfredo Ledezma, Felipe Lira, Urbano Lugo, Ugueth Urbina and Lino Urdaneta. He is the fifth Venezuelan native to start a game for the Tigers, joining Bazardo, Ledezma, Lira and Lugo.

MISCELLANEOUS NOTES: Galarraga was acquired by the Tigers from the Texas Rangers in a two-player deal on February 4, 2008. He originally signed with the Montreal Expos as a as a non-drafted free agent on October 31, 1998.

GALARRAGA’S GAME HIGHS:
LAST CG: N/A.
LAST SHUTOUT: N/A.
STRIKEOUT HIGH - 2008: 6 - April 16, 2008 at Cleveland.
STRIKEOUT HIGH - CAREER: 6 - April 16, 2008 at Cleveland.
WALK HIGH - 2008: 4 - April 21, 2008 at Toronto.
WALK HIGH - CAREER: 4 (twice) - last, April 21, 2008 at Toronto.
LOW-HIT GAME - 2008: 1 - April 16, 2008 at Cleveland (6.2IP).
LOW-HIT GAME - CAREER: 1 - April 16, 2008 at Cleveland (6.2IP).

Subject: Re: 2008 Gameday Press Passes Wed Apr 30, 2008 8:03 pm

2008 Gameday Press Passes

Adobe Acrobat Reader Available - CLICK HERE

Detroit Tigers at Yankee Stadium
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Yankee Stadium, New York, NY
Game Time - 7:05 p.m. EDT

RECENT RESULTS: The Tigers knocked off the Yankees 6-4 last night, marking the sixth win in the club’s last eight games. Kenny Rogers (2-3) earned his second straight win for Detroit, limiting the Yankees to two runs in six innings of work. Todd Jones worked the ninth inning for his fifth save. Curtis Granderson doubled and homered for Detroit, while Gary Sheffield belted a two-run home run. Placido Polanco finished with four hits and an RBI for the Tigers, while Magglio Ordonez added a two-run single. The Tigers continue a six-game road trip with the second game of a three-game series against the Yankees tonight. The club concludes the trip with a three-game series in Minnesota.

WINNING WAYS: Detroit has won 10 of the club’s last 15 games after posting a 6-4 win last night against New York at Yankee Stadium. During the 15-game stretch dating back to April 14, Detroit is hitting .290 (148x510) with 103 runs scored, 36 doubles, four triples and 22 home runs. Detroit is leading all American League clubs with 103 runs scored, 22 home runs and a .506 slugging percentage during the stretch, while the club is second with a .290 batting average.

ROAD WARRIORS: Since the start of the 2006 season, the Tigers have compiled a 98-77 record on the road. Detroit’s 98 wins on the road are tied for second in the majors with the New York Yankees during this stretch, with both clubs trailing the 99 road wins by the New York Mets. The Tigers are tops among all American League clubs with a 4.23 ERA (1514.0IP/711ER) on the road during the stretch. The club is third in the American League during the stretch with a .279 batting average (1754x6276) on the road.

PRODUCTION AGAINST PETTITTE: Carlos Guillen, Magglio Ordonez and Ivan Rodriguez have all enjoyed success in their respective careers against Andy Pettitte. Rodriguez is fifth among all active players with at least 25 plate appearances against Pettitte with a .400 batting average (16x40), while Guillen is eighth with a .375 batting average (9x24) and Ordonez is 14th with a .343 batting average (12x35).

BULLISH BEHAVIOR: Over the club’s last 11 games, Tigers relievers have compiled a 1.24 ERA (36.1IP/6ER). During the 11-game stretch, opposing batters have hit .169 (21x124) against club relievers. Additionally, Tigers relievers have surrendered just three runs in the last 23.1 innings (1.16 ERA) dating back to April 22 versus Texas.

WALK THIS WAY: The Tigers collected four walks last night against the Yankees, and the club is second in the American League with 120 walks through its first 27 games of the season. Last night marked the ninth straight game the Tigers have drawn four-or-more walks in a game, the longest such streak by the club since the the 1997 Tigers did so in 15
straight games April 4-19. The Tigers have drawn five-or-more walks 12 times so far in 2008. Detroit did not record its 12th five-or-walk game until June 5 during the 2007 season, the club’s 57th game of the season.

A GRAND RETURN: Curtis Granderson has hit safely in five of his six games for Detroit since returning from the disabled list on April 23, batting .348 (8x23) with 11 runs scored, two doubles, a triple, three home runs and five RBI. The Tigers have won four of the six games during the stretch and are 74-31 since the start of the 2006 season when Granderson posts a multi-hit game (including 3-0 in 2008).

CABRERA ON THE OFFENSIVE: Miguel Cabrera has hit safely in 15 of his last 16 games for the Tigers dating back to April 13. During the 16-game stretch, he is batting .333 (20x60) with 12 runs scored, four doubles, four home runs and 17 RBI. Cabrera is tied for second in the American League with four home runs and 17 RBI during the stretch, while he is seventh with a .600 slugging percentage.

ORDONEZ FLAWLESS IN THE FIELD: Magglio Ordonez has not committed an error in the outfield for the Tigers since April 6, 2007 at Kansas City, a stretch of 166 games without an error. It is the longest errorless streak by a Tigers outfielder since Al Kaline did not commit an error in 242 consecutive games April 15, 1970-July 2, 1972.

CRUCETA’S ASSIGNMENT TO TRIPLE A TOLEDO: Francisco Cruceta made his third appearance with Triple A Toledo on Monday night versus Indianapolis, fanning five batters in two innings of work. In his three outings with Toledo, he is 1-0 with a 1.29 ERA (7.0IP/1ER) and 15 strikeouts. He was assigned to Toledo on April 22, an assignment that can last a maximum of 16 days.

INJURY UPDATE:
RHP Fernando Rodney (right shoulder tendinitis, 15-day DL on March
30),
LHP Dontrelle Willis (hyperextension of right knee, 15-day DL on April 12),
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 sixth start of the 2008 season this evening against the New York Yankees.

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).

ROCKIN’ ON THE ROAD: Bonderman makes his third start of the season on the road for the Tigers this evening at New York. In his previous two outings on the road, he is 1-1 with a 2.70 ERA (10.0IP/3ER).

ROUGH ON RIGHTIES: In his first five starts of the season, Bonderman has limited righthanded batters to a .245 batting average (13x53). During his career, righthanded batters are hitting .253 (417x1648) with Bonderman on the mound.

RISP MANAGEMENT: In his first five starts this season, Bonderman has limited opponents to a .143 batting average (3x21) with runners in scoring position. Opponents are hitting .100 (1x10) with runners in scoring position and two outs against Bonderman.

RECORD AT YANKEE STADIUM: Bonderman is making his sixth appearance, fifth start, at Yankee Stadium during his career this evening. In his previous five outings, he is 1-3 with a 5.54 ERA (26.0IP/16ER).

FANNING BATTERS WITH THE BEST OF THEM IN FRANCHISE HISTORY: During his major league career with the Tigers, Bonderman has averaged 7.43 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 7.43 strikeouts per nine innings. He is currently eighth among all American League pitchers in strikeouts per nine innings since the start of 2003.

Subject: Re: 2008 Gameday Press Passes Fri May 02, 2008 1:23 pm

2008 Gameday Press Passes

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Detroit Tigers at Yankee Stadium
Thursday, May 1, 2008
Yankee Stadium, New York, NY
Game Time - 7:05 p.m. EDT

RECENT RESULTS: The Tigers defeated the Yankees 6-2 last night, marking the seventh win in the club’s last nine games. Jeremy Bonderman (2-2) picked up the win for Detroit, limiting the Yankees to two runs in 7.2 innings of work. Placido Polanco belted two solo home runs for the Tigers, while Marcus Thames added a two-run home run. Gary Sheffield collected two hits for Detroit, while Carlos Guillen and Edgar Renteria both singled and drove in a run. The Tigers continue a six-game road trip with the final game of a three game series against the Yankees tonight. The club concludes the trip with a three-game series in Minnesota starting tomorrow night.

CRUCETA JOINS TIGERS BULLPEN: The Tigers today recalled righthanded pitcher Francisco Cruceta from his assignment with Triple A Toledo and reinstated him from the restricted list. Cruceta appeared in three games with the Mud Hens, compiling a 1-0 record, 1.29 ERA (7.0IP/1ER) and 15 strikeouts. Cruceta takes the spot of righthanded pitcher Jason Grilli on the Tigers 25-man roster. Grilli was traded to the Colorado Rockies prior to last night’s game at New York for righthanded pitcher Zach Simons. Simons, a second-round selection in 2005 by Colorado, appeared in seven games for Single A Modesto this season, posting a 1-0 record, 2.70 ERA (13.1IP/4ER) and 14 strikeouts. Simons will be assigned to Single A Lakeland by the Tigers.

GOING FOR THE SWEEP: The Tigers have won the first two games of their three-game set at Yankee Stadium against New York. With a victory tonight over the Yankees, it would mark Detroit’s first three-game sweep of the Yankees in New York since April 12-14, 1966.

WINNING WAYS: Detroit has won 11 of the club’s last 16 games after posting a 6-2 win last night against New York at Yankee Stadium. During the 16-game stretch dating back to April 14, Detroit is hitting .290 (158x544) with 109 runs scored, 37 doubles, four triples and 25 home runs. Detroit is leading all American League clubs with 109 runs scored, 25 home runs and a .511 slugging percentage during the stretch, while the club is third with a .290 batting average.

ROAD WARRIORS: Since the start of the 2006 season, the Tigers have compiled a 99-77 record on the road. Detroit’s 99 wins on the road are tied for the most in the majors with the New York Mets during this stretch. The Tigers are tops among all American League clubs with a 4.21 ERA (1523.0IP/713ER) on the road during the stretch. The club is third in the American League during the stretch with a .280 batting average (1764x6310) on the road.

BULLISH BEHAVIOR: Over the club’s last 12 games, Tigers relievers have compiled a 1.43 ERA (37.2IP/6ER). During the 12-game stretch, opposing batters have hit .164 (21x128) against club relievers. Additionally, Tigers relievers have surrendered just three runs in the last 24.2 innings (1.11 ERA) dating back to April 22 versus Texas.

A GRAND RETURN: Curtis Granderson has hit safely in six of his seven games for Detroit since returning from the disabled list on April 23, batting .375 (9x24) with 11 runs scored, three doubles, a triple, three home runs and five RBI. The Tigers have won five of the seven games during the stretch and are 74-31 since the start of the 2006 season when Granderson
posts a multi-hit game (including 3-0 in 2008).

CABRERA ON THE OFFENSIVE: Miguel Cabrera has hit safely in 16 of his last 17 games for the Tigers dating back to April 13. During the 17-game stretch, he is batting .328 (21x64) with 12 runs scored, four doubles, four home runs and 17 RBI. Cabrera is tied for second in the American League with four home runs during the stretch, while he is fourth with 17 RBI and 10th with a .578 slugging percentage.

GOING SOLO: Placido Polanco equaled a career high with his third career two-home run game last night at New York. Both of Polanco’s home runs were solo shots and dating back to the start of the 2007 season, all 11 of his home runs have come with the bases empty.

ORDONEZ FLAWLESS IN THE FIELD: Magglio Ordonez has not committed an error in the outfield for the Tigers since April 6, 2007 at Kansas City, a stretch of 167 games without an error. It is the longest errorless streak by a Tigers outfielder since Al Kaline did not commit an error in 242 consecutive games April 15, 1970-July 2, 1972.

WILLIS TO START FOR TRIPLE A TOLEDO ON FRIDAY: Dontrelle Willis is slated to start for Triple A Toledo on Friday night versus Rochester as part of an injury rehabilitation assignment. Willis has been sidelined since April 12 with a hyperextension of his right knee.

INJURY UPDATE:
RHP Fernando Rodney (right shoulder tendinitis, 15-day DL on March 30),
LHP Dontrelle Willis (hyperextension of right knee, 15-day DL on April 12),
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).

-------------------------------------------------------------

NOTES ON NATE: In his fifth full season with the Tigers, Robertson makes his sixth start of the season this evening against the Yankees.

LONG-TERM DEAL: Robertson agreed to a three-year contract during the off-season, keeping him in a Tigers uniform through the 2010 season.

PROUD PAPA: Robertson and his wife, Kristin, welcomed the couple’s first child on February 28, a baby boy named Wyatt Dale.

MOVING UP THE TIGERS LEFTY LIST: Robertson is making his 140th start as a member of the Detroit Tigers this evening, moving him within three starts of tying Mike Maroth (143) for eighth 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.

TAKING THE BALL EVERY FIFTH DAY: Since the start of the 2004 season, Robertson has started 131 games for the Tigers.
During that stretch, he is tied for fourth among all American League pitchers with the 131 games started. Additionally, Robertson is eighth in the league with 808.1 innings pitched during the stretch.

RECORD AT YANKEE STADIUM: Robertson is making his fifth start at Yankee Stadium during his career tonight. In his previous four outings, he is 0-3 with a 6.97 ERA (20.2IP/16ER).

LIMITING THE LEFTIES: During his major league career, Robertson has limited lefties to a .254 batting average (191x751). During that stretch, he has held lefties to a .302 on-base percentage and .353 slugging percentage.

LIMITING THE LEFTIES, PART II: Since the start of the 2004 season, Robertson has held lefthanded opposition to a .250 batting average (178x712). During that same stretch, Robertson has surrendered only nine home runs to lefthanded hitters, tied for second-fewest in the American League during that stretch.

Subject: Re: 2008 Gameday Press Passes Fri May 02, 2008 1:36 pm

2008 Gameday Press Passes

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Detroit Tigers at Minnesota Twins
Friday, May 2, 2008
Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome, Minneapolis, MN
Game Time - 8:10 p.m. EDT

RECENT RESULTS: The Tigers defeated the Yankees 8-4 last night, marking the eighth win in the club’s last 10 games. Nate Robertson (1-3) earned the win for Detroit, allowing four runs in 5.2 innings of work. Miguel Cabrera tripled, homered and drove in three runs for Detroit, while Magglio Ordonez added three hits and two RBI. Ramon Santiago added a double, triple and two RBI for the Tigers. The Tigers continue a six-game road trip with the first game of a three-game series against the Minnesota Twins tonight.

ORDONEZ, GALARRAGA EARN TIGERS HONORS FOR MARCH/APRIL: Magglio Ordonez and Armando Galarraga were selected the Tigers Player and Pitcher of the Month, respectively, for March/April. Ordonez hit .301 (31x103) with seven doubles, five home runs and 19 RBI in 28 games. Galarraga posted a 2-0 record and 1.50 ERA (18.0IP/3ER) in three starts.

HOW SWEEP IT IS: The Tigers com