Good start

With now five games left before the All-Star break, last night's rout of the Tribe was the start the Tigers desperately needed. They need a big run, five of six, in these two series vs. Cleveland (2 games) and Minnesota (4 games). A split with the Twins just won't do it, and losing tonight to the lowly Tribe is not an option.
The Tigers are 12-21 vs. the Central Division, and getting that record squared is one of the most important tasks of the season right now.
After the break, the Tigers have three games vs. Seattle and then six more games vs. Cleveland (2) and the Twinkies (4). That's 12 of the next 15 vs. Central opponents, including one -- the Twinkies -- who are one rung ahead of them in the standings.
Justin Verlander did not get off to the best of starts last night, allowing a two-run homer in the first inning. And, at times, it appears Verlander throws instead of pitches. But his natural ability was good enough against the Tribe. Good sign to see Thames hit to right, and a good sign to see other players contribute.
It appears Cabrera, sore left calf and all, has found his stroke. He reminds me of Manny Ramirez, and that's a scary thought for opposing pitchers. Thames is not always a tough out; he seems to swing from his heels. But he has a penchant for delivering clutch hits, and that's something hard to teach.
I'd like to see Leyland give Renteria a break (maybe for the next 80-plus games). He's a player who looks shot, at the plate and in the field. I like the kid shortstop, Mike Hollimon, and his range. Hope he plays a couple of games here before the break, to perhaps breathe a little life into the infield.
Anyway, the tough stretch is ahead.

PS: Twinkies lost last night to the BoSox, with Manny Ramirez launching a two-run game-tying homer in the decisive eighth inning. Nice to see the Twinkies blow one late, for a change.