Well, that's one way to start a discussion, we couldn't have scripted this lineup better for a good old sparring match. Detroit Tigers and Kansas City Royals, rivals indeed. Now let's see what everyone is actually here for, the good, the bad, and most likely—my obnoxious commentary.
Today, we're in Kansas City's backyard, the Kauffman Stadium. Now, let's whisper it, the park tends to favor batters a bit... which should make for some interesting at-bats.
Let's talk pitches— Casey Mize is on the mound for Detroit. He's carrying a tidy 2.52 ERA and 7.9 K/9 into his ninth appearance this season. On the flip side, Royals' hurler Seth Lugo isn't a slouch either, sporting a 3.12 ERA and 6.9 K/9 himself.
Detroit's locker room has some shining stars—Riley Greene, Gleyber Torres, and Javier Baez—all in impressive form. Coming up for the Royals, it's the Maikel Garcia, Vinnie Pasquantino, and speedster Bobby Witt Jr., who seems to have a personal vendetta against stationary bases, with 12 stolen so far.
Looking back, Detroit has shown Kansas City what's what, with a few chits in their favor in recent meetups.
Now, let's talk form. Tigers are sneaking around with a 37-20 record, while Royals at 30-27 seem to be playing a game of hide and seek with lady luck herself. Detroit's been on a hot streak, still smoky from their recent victories against San Francisco and Cleveland. Kansas, well let's say, the Royals have royally handled Cincinnati and Minnesota—but had a stumble or two.
Take it all in folks, and for those of you waiting for a nod, here it is:
Albert’s Prediction: Detroit Tigers by 2