Tiger Trouble

Now that the MLB All Star Game is in the past, the division races are starting to heat up even more. All Star Game MVP Brian McCann has kept Atlanta at the top of the National League East as their division lead has increased to 5.5 games, with the Mets falling in eight of their last ten. The Rangers now have the largest division lead, as they are six games up in the American League West. But arguably the most entertaining division this season and for the past couple of years is the AL Central. It seems like year after year the Tigers, Twins and White Sox are all fighting for the division crown, and it's no different to start the new decade. Three games separate the same three teams in the division, with Detroit struggling of late. Now, the Tigers have been hit with more bad news: both Magglio Ordonez and Carlos Guillen are headed to the Disabled List, capping an egregious week for the team. Just five days ago, 3rd baseman Brandon Inge was placed on the DL after breaking a bone in his left hand, and Ordonez isn't expected back until September.

This could play a major role in not just the AL Central race but also the AL Wild Card, and it looks like it could get ugly for Detroit. They don't play a team with a losing record until August 20th when they host Cleveland. The next month consists of matchups against the AL East powerhouses, the White Sox and the Angels. On top of that, Minnesota could get Justin Morneau back soon as he's finally started exercises for the first time since suffering a concussion on July 7th. Detroit may have to rely on some of their experienced players such as Johnny Damon and Miguel Cabrera, who's still in the hunt for the AL MVP. It's going to be difficult without some of the team's biggest contributors over the last few years, but it's something they're going to have to deal with. They'll need everyone to step up, whether it's at the plate or on the mound. However, I feel like the starting pitcher will need to bring their A game for the next month or so because of the lack three important bats on offense. Things should be interesting in this division once again, and sorry for Tigers fans, but don't be surprised if they slowly lose ground on Chicago and Minnesota.