Coke head

No place has proven more dangerous for Tiger veterans than the Detroit bullpen.  First to succumb to the rapid downfall was Papa Potato.  While I've never been his biggest fan, Potato head had a great year last year until the playoffs.  He quickly went on a downward spiral and has been banished for all eternity (I'm saying this with conviction, Dom).

Newest victim of the great in 2012, horrible in 2013 is Philthy Phil.  No one can forget his role as closer in the ALCS championship game.  He was dominate in the playoffs and stepped in when the potato got fried.  Sadly, his numbers this year have been less than stellar.  He's got a 0-5 record, 5.00 ERA in 36 innings, only one save in three opportunities, and an opponent average of .281 against him.  Ouchie.  Every action has consequences and in this case, Phil's dismal performance has him optioned to Toledo.  I'm sure once the roster expands, he'll be back up, but let's hope he comes back with some mojo.  Bring the swagger back, Phil!

This is the picture next to the word "mojo" in the dictionary

Dom did make a smart move by bringing Jose Alvarez back up from Toledo.  In the few starts he's had with the Tigers, he's proven that he can hang with the big boys.  His MO is usually that he cruises for several innings and then has one disastrous inning (Ryan Raburn anyone?).  More exposure to major league hitters will only be good for his ERA and confidence.

There's one problem with this scenario.  Alvarez is a starting pitcher and he's being thrown into the bullpen.  Starting pitchers and relievers are two different kinds of folks (think of JV and Brian Wilson...different, no?).  Alvarez should buddy up to Smyly and get some tips from him.  Drew has somehow adapted to the bullpen although it's CLEAR he's a starter.  I'm sure loads of players sacrifice and change for the sake of being in the bigs.

On a completely unrelated note, word is that Cabby had some lower back pain (or in his abdomen, or leg, or wherever) at the end of the game last night.  Even clearly injured, he's still the best hitter in the league.  Let's give him some nights off though so Miggy can make it to the playoffs without a hip replacement or a walker of some sort.  Get better soon Miggy...and Infante!