Detroit Tigers vs Minnesota Twins: Game 160 Preview, Lineup, TV/Radio Coverage

Detroit Tigers (89-70) vs Minnesota Twins (68-91) — 7:08 p.m. ET

Comerica Park– Detroit, MI

TV: Fox Sports Detroit

Radio: 97.1 The Ticket (click for affiliates)

Weather: 68 degrees, clear

Game Notes

The Detroit Tigers moved one step closer to their fourth straight divisional title with their win last night. With their magic number at two, they need to beat the Minnesota Twins tonight and get help from the Chicago White Sox by beating the Kansas City Royals to be able to celebrate a divisional title at home for the first time since 1987.

When We Last Met

The Tigers got out to a 3-0 start against the Twins off a two-run shot from Victor Martinez and a towering solo homer from Miguel Cabrera. Max Scherzer had control issues at times and could only last through the sixth inning, holding Minnesota to two runs. The bullpen trifecta of Joakim Soria–Joba Chamberlain–Joe Nathan were perfect for the seventh, eighth, and ninth respectively.

Pitching Matchup

Rick Porcello‘s (15-12, 3.31) first half was dominant but his second half has been rather shaky. Since pitching a complete game shutout against the Tampa Bay Rays on Aug. 20, he has gone 1-4 in six starts, allowing 13 runs over his last four starts spanning 21+ innings. The last time he faced Minnesota, however, he had a worthy effort, allowing two runs over eight innings but received a no-decision. He has not picked up a victory since Aug. 26.

Anthony Swarzak‘s (3-2, 4.52) ERA looks Cy Young-caliber when compared with other Twins’ starters, however he was rocked by the Tigers two starts ago, allowing six on 11 hits in 4.1 innings on Sept. 15. He lost to Cleveland in his last outing, allowing five runs (three earned).

Detroit Tigers Lineup

1. Kinsler-2B
2. Hunter-RF
3. Cabrera-1B
4. VMart-DH
5. J.D. Mart-LF
6. Castellanos-3B
7. Avila-C
8. Romine-SS
9. Davis-CF

Injuries

Tigers

• Luke Putkonen – Out indefinitely
• Andy Dirks – Out indefinitely
• Joel Hanrahan – 60-day DL
• Jose Iglesias – Out for season
• Bruce Rondon – Out for season

Twins

• Joe Mauer – Questionable
• Trevor Plouffe – Out for season
• Glen Perkins – Out indefinitely
• Tommy Milone – Out indefinitely
• Mike Pelfrey – Out for season