Important stretch

OK, Twinkies lost last night and they play the Red Sox in a tough series. If the Tigers can rev it up here in the next six games, they can close ground on the two leaders in the Central Division.
It's Verlander tonight, and the ace needs to be sharp. The Indians have to be hanging their heads, dragging, etc., after management dealt C.C. Sabathia to Milwaukee. The trade signals an end to the Tribe's chances for this year, telling players that the front office has given up on the race.
For the Tigers, 11-21 vs. teams in their division, a good stretch is crucial here. If they can get within 4-5 games of the leader, the ChiSox, by the break, that would be a good sign. The Twinkies and Tigers meet for three right before the break, so there's a chance to pick up ground vs. the second-place team.
Then again, the ChiSox start a series with K.C. tonight, and the ChiSox are 23-11 in the division.
It's time to make some noise.