Detroit Tigers Observations From 11-2 Loss to White Sox

Bench Players See Some Action, Make Late Impact

In blow outs, both teams obviously empty their respective benches as the game goes on. Chicago did this in part as Leury Garcia came in late for Melky Cabrera.

However, the Detroit Tigers changes were as close to wholesale as you can get with a four-man bench.

Dixon Machado entered the game in the bottom of the seventh inning at second base, replacing leadoff hitter Ian Kinsler. Meanwhile, Andrew Romine took over for Miguel Cabrera at first base.

Mikie Mahtook also saw action, stepping in for Justin Upton in the same inning.

The move by manager Brad Ausmus allowed all three players to see some time defensively, while also logging an at-bat each.

These things can be hard to come by—at least on a consistent basis—for reserve players, so it was a definite positive to get the bench into the game.

While Dixon Machado grounded out to Michael Ynoa, and Andrew Romine struck out, Alex Avila did make an instant impact.

Pinch hitting for designated hitter Victor Martinez, Avila nearly deposited a Ynoa pitch into the stands in left field for a two-run home run.

However, he just missed out on a trip around the bases as he settled for a double.

The double did plate third baseman Nick Castellanos, who had previously reached third on an error earlier in the inning.

Mike Mahtook would later strike out after seeing seven pitches.

The Detroit Tigers return to action on Friday for the team’s home opener at Comerica Park. Michael Fulmer will take the mound against the Boston Red Sox.

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He’ll be opposed by knuckleball pitcher Steven Wright. First pitch is scheduled for 1:10 P.M. Eastern time.