Detroit Tigers: Five Bold Second-Half Predictions for AL Central

Jun 14, 2015; Detroit, MI, USA; Cleveland Indians starting pitcher

(28) pitches in the first inning against the Detroit Tigers at Comerica Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

Corey Kluber reaches .500 mark

Kluber started the year very poorly, but he turned it on in May. Since striking out 18 in his first 2015 victory on May 13, Kluber has a 2.54 ERA, .216 batting average against and 108 strikeouts in 88 2/3 innings.

But clearly, it hasn’t turned into victories as the reigning AL Cy Young award winner is just 4-10 at the All-Star Break.

MCB predicts, however, that Kluber will continue to pitch better and win more games than he loses in 2015.

In the second half last season, he went 9-3 with a 1.73 ERA, 0.962 WHIP and 127 strikeouts in 104 frames. It isn’t inconceivable to think Kluber can repeat those numbers again.

Furthermore, one of the biggest reasons Kluber has 10 losses is his lack of run support. The 2.32 runs the Indians average while Kluber is on the mound is dead last in the AL. If Cleveland starts scoring for him, Kluber should easily reel off some victories.

Next: Detroit Tigers: Top Five AL Central First Half Surprises