The Tigers’ struggles on the road continued as they kicked off a road trip that started in New York against the Mets.  It’s been a while, but not only did Justin Verlander get roughed up, but the bullpen had a bit of a meltdown as well.  Verlander gave up five in just two innings.  This is the first time he hasn’t pitched into the fifth inning all season and it’s his shortest outing since September 1, 2008 when the Yankees took him to task.  Jay Sborz was shelled in his major league debut and Fu-Te Ni gave up three runs in three innings.  An eight run third inning was what pretty much did the Tigers in early in this one.

Brennan Boesch continued to rake.  He went two for three with his eleventh home run, a walk and three RBIs in the 14-6 loss.  Then six Tigers had a hit a piece for an eight hit performance.

Andy Oliver got the nod to replace Rick Porcello in the rotation.  He’ll get his first career start on Friday in Atlanta against the Braves.  I still think this is just a blip for Porcello and he’s smart enough to work through some things.  People just have to remember he’s only 21.  in the meantime, Sborz will continue to pitch with the team until that start.  Oliver was the Tigers second round pick in last year’s draft and while sending Porcello down means the Tigers will get older, it won’t be by much because Oliver is only 22 himself.

The Twins lost so the Tigers deficit in the Central is still a game and a half.  Game two against the Mets is tonight with Jeremy Bonderman going up against R.A Dickey.

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