Detroit Tigers: Three players to watch in series against Kansas City Royals

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DETROIT, MI – SEPTEMBER 20: Anibal Sanchez #19 of the Detroit Tigers pitches against the Oakland Athletics during the third inning at Comerica Park on September 20, 2017 in Detroit, Michigan. (Photo by Duane Burleson/Getty Images) /

Anibal Sanchez

It’s safe to say that the 2017 season hasn’t been Anibal Sanchez’ best.

After an abysmal 2016 in which the starter allowed 3.11 walks and 1.76 home runs per nine innings in 2016, Sanchez has given up 2.48 walks and 2.48 home runs per nine frames this year.

He’s also sporting a 1.60 WHIP, a 5.74 xFIP and a career-low 36.3 ground ball percentage in 94.1 innings.

Of course, some of that has to do with a sky0high .347 BABIP, but Sanchez has still struggled in terms of limiting mistakes (walks and home runs).

However, he’s shown well at times this year. Those time have included the veteran’s last two starts.

In 12 combined innings against the Athletics and White Sox, Sanchez struck out 19 batters against just four walks allowed.

He also surrendered just nine hits, two runs and one home run total.

The ex-Marlin will look to keep up the positive momentum against a Royals squad that has gotten to him for 10 hits, five runs and two walks in just 3.2 innings this season.

That being said, Sanchez does have a lifetime 2.49 ERA in 47 innings at Kauffman Stadium.

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