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MLB – Tigers Down Astros
Alfredo Simon pitched seven strong innings, as the Detroit Tigers defeated the Houston Astros 6-2 last night. Simon gave up two unearned runs in the top of the third inning, but Detroit immediately bounced back on J.D. Martinez’ homer three-run homer in the bottom of the third. Detroit added three more in the eighth, on RBI singles by Rajai Davis and James McCann.
The Tigers continue that home set against the Houston Astros this afternoon. Kyle Lobstein will start against Lance McCullers. Hear the first pitch at 4:08 on AM 1400 and FM 99.3 WCCY.
Detroit starter Justin Verlander reported no problems with his arm yesterday, after throwing a 60-pitch bullpen session on Thursday. Verlander has missed the entire season with a strained triceps muscle. Verlander’s next rehab step could be a simulated game against Detroit hitters early next week.
Ryan Braun drove in four runs, as the Milwaukee Brewers ripped the Atlanta Braves 11-0 last night. Milwaukee put the game away with seven runs in the fourth inning. Wily Peralta gave up just one hit over four innings, and then left the game with tightness in his side. The injury is not believed to be serious. Michael Blazek pitched three scoreless innings to earn the win in relief.
The Brewers continue that series against the Braves at Atlanta this afternoon. Mike Fiers will start against Shelby Miller.
Milwaukee reliever Will Smith has been suspended for eight games by Major League Baseball for having a foreign substance on his arm when he entered Thursday’s game against the Braves. Smith has said he was using the mixture of sunscreen and rosin in the bullpen, and forgot to remove it when he entered the game. He is appealing the sentence.
Babcock Says Farewell
In an unusual move, new Toronto Maple Leafs coach Mike Babcock returned to his former locker room in Detroit to meet with members of the media yesterday. Babcock told reporters he loved his time in Detroit, and would be keeping his home in southeastern Michigan. He said the move was about taking on a new challenge, and revitalizing an Original Six franchise that’s been to the playoffs only once in the past decade.
Babcock will have at least one familiar face on his bench in Toronto next season. The Leafs have hired Detroit assistant coach and power play specialist Jim Hiller as their new assistant coach.
Ontonagon Lake Trout Classic Sign-up Deadline
Sunday is the final day to sign up for the Ontonagon Lake Trout Classic fishing tournament. The tourney will be held next weekend. To sign up, and get the full rules and schedule, call 884-2770, email larry@greigstackleshop.com, or click here.
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