Detroit Tigers: Are You Entertained?

Aug 16, 2015; Houston, TX, USA; Detroit Tigers pitcher Justin Verlander in the dugout against the Houston Astros at Minute Maid Park. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

The Detroit Tigers have not been an entertaining team to watch since their 11-2 start. Since then, they have been one of the worst teams in baseball with a 45-59 record since their start, which leaves them with a 56-61 record. When they hit, they don’t pitch. When they pitch, they don’t hit. When they hit and pitch, their bullpen breaks down. They have brought enjoyment to fans since their hot start which leads to the question, why give them your time and watch them?

I have been called many things because of my love of baseball and what I will do to watch or play it. If I wasn’t the way I was in my pure love for the game, I would not watch this team. I have a hard time finding reasons to watch the Tigers other than a love for the game.

The only reasons I can find to watch the Tigers right now is to watch Miguel Cabrera hit, Jose Iglesias field, and the young guys develop. I was worried about Cabrera coming back too soon, but his at bats are a work of art that are worth the price of admission in itself. Iglesias may have hot dogged that one play, but watching him play shortstop on a nightly basis is a treat. If the Tigers are going to have hope for the future, it depends on the young pitchers they acquired at the trade deadline.

Besides those reasons, the Tigers are incredibly frustrating. I do not watch games to watch for someone to make a mistake. Watching Brad Ausmus in above his head does not entertain me. Watching Anibal Sanchez act as a launching pad for opposing batters is not entertaining. Watching Justin Verlander and Alfredo Simon struggle and decline is not entertaining. Watching the lack of bullpen arms struggle through the late inning sis not entertaining.

They are a stressful watch, but I love the game too much not to watch Miguel Cabrera, Jose Iglesias, and the kids. Unless you write for the team or love the game to a point where it may be unhealthy (like myself), why do you turn on the television to give the Detroit Tigers every night?