The Tigers played well today, but the A’s played better as they beat the Tigers 2-0 to keep their playoff hopes alive. Now what I said sounds like what every stereotypical coach says, but if you look at today’s recap, you would understand.
The tale of the tape is in the pitching duel of Anibal Sanchez and Brett Anderson. Sanchez gave up two runs on five hits while striking out three batters, a decent start for an average pitcher, but Anderson was lights out today giving up only two hits and shutting out the Tigers with six strikeouts.
As for batting, the Tigers had four hits compared to the A’s five hits. The difference today was capitalizing on those hits and turning them into runs. The A’s got an RBI single from Yoenis Cespedes in the first inning which brought Coco Crisp to the bag and a solo shot from Seth Smith.
Another thing missing today were the Tiger’s star players Miguel Cabrera and Prince Fielder. The two combined to get one hit at eight at-bats. The duo also had a chance to take back the game in the ninth inning. Cabrera got a single but Fielder grounded into a double play to end the game. If the Tigers want to advance to the next round, they need to do better than the way they played today
The Tigers have another chance to close the door on the A’s tomorrow back in Oakland when Max Scherzer does battle against A.J Griffin.
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Written by Mark Kim
Currently the Community Editor and Sports Columnist for the award winning Central Times student newspaper of Naperville Central High School. Plans to study sports journalism in college, although still undecided on what college to attend. Follow my twitter @Mark_Kim_Sports
