Detroit Tigers Top 10 Most Memorable Moments of 2016

2. Michael Fulmer vs. the Texas Rangers

This game cemented the fact that Michael Fulmer is for real. The 2016 Rookie of the Year proved that he could go the distance and pitch a shutout. He did it on August 14, 2016 against the Texas Rangers at Globe Life Park in Arlington, Texas. The Tigers won this game 7-0.

As a native of Oklahoma, Fulmer had several of his family members in the seats. His family’s presence at the park seemed to drive up Fulmer’s mojo. At the time of the meeting, the Rangers were the best offense in the MLB. Fulmer held the Rangers to four hits and he threw nine strikeouts. He pitched the entire game – his first one as a Major League pitcher.

The Tigers offense did its part that day, too. With 13 hits and 4 home runs, it seemed like the entire team wanted Fulmer to get this win. Victor Martinez, Miguel Cabrera, and Ian Kinsler hit dingers that day. But, the most memorable home run belonged to J.D. Martinez who hit his 100th into the left-field stands. As usual, Kinsler was booed by the fans of the Rangers. Both Martinez’s hit doubles in that game, too. And, the day before, the Rangers were shut out by Matt Boyd!

Fulmer ended the game with 112 pitches after facing 30 batters. Keep in mind, that the minimum is 27. Not too shabby, Mr. Fulmer.