Poor Pitching Overshadows Offense For Detroit Tigers In Concerning Loss To Astros.

For the hurlers on the Detroit Tigers, Sunday’s contest against the Houston Astros was not a banner day. While the offense continued on a torrid pace, Detroit’s staff was disappointing.

From the outset, Tigers fans had little to hang their hat on. Shane Greene, who was acquired in a three-way trade with the Yankees, and Arizona, left much to be desired in his eagerly anticipated debut. In the first inning Greene allowed two runs, on three hits, and his day did not improve drastically from that point on. He finished with the following line: 2.0 IP, 6 H, 3 ER, and 2 K.

The Tigers’ bullpen did not look much better. In one inning of work, Joba Chamberlain allowed three hits, and two runs, while also walking one batter. New addition Tom Gorzelanny left much to be desired, as well. In his one inning, the lefty allowed two hits, two runs, and two walks.

One bright spot amongst the Astros’ 20 hit barrage, was Joakim Soria, who allowed just one hit and no runs, while tallying one strikeout.

Another bright spot was the Tigers’ offense, which kept Detroit afloat until the 6th inning, when Houston pulled away.

Ian Kinsler paved the way for another good day on the part of the Tigers’ bats. In three at-bats, the Detroit’s second-baseman had two hits, two RBIs, and scored a run.

He was equalled only by Tyler Collins, the young outfielder who was on the Opening Day roster last year, and is vying for the chance to make the roster once more. In three at-bats, Collins had two hits, and drove in three runs.

Detroit stayed with Houston for most of the day in a back and forth game, but eventually the Astros widened the gap, and secured a victory, by scoring six runs in the last four innings.

The Tigers will face the Blue Jays at home in their next contest, and will send Anibal Sanchez to the hill against Marcus Stroman. The game will take place at 1:05 and will be the Tigers’ last home game before two games on the road and a pair of split squad games with the Phillies and Houston.

Next: How Good Can Detroit Tigers' Bullpen Be?