The Tigers were edged by the Nationals on Monday, and handed their first loss of the grapefruit league season. Dean Palmer, attempting to come back after some major shoulder problems, hit his first homerun and played third base for the first time. Bobby Higginson went one for two and scored twice, and Rondell White continued to hit the ball going two for three.

Jeremy Bonderman threw three innings, and while he only gave up one hit, he did walk three.

Today, the Tigers got off to a good start by scoring four runs in the first. Craig Monroe and Brandon Inge both hit homers to put the Tigers up 4-1. But Gary Knotts, Steve Colyer, and Chris Dingman all were shelled, and the Tigers lost 12-4. Probably the most encouraging player of the game was Franklyn German. He threw two innings, gave up only one hit, and struck out two. And yes, he didn’t walk anyone.

Here’s an interesting story about Ilitich wanting to spend until the Tigers win. I’m not sure if it’s the fact the Wings aren’t playing, but it would be nice for him to put more of his attention into the Tigers. The story about him missing out on Pavano is a pretty good one. I think he’s embarrased by what happened in 2003, and when he dropped some dime, saw attendance go up considerably last year. He’s hoping to build on that even more, so hopefully Tiger fans will reap the benefit.

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