The Los Angeles Angels (64-60) and Detroit Tigers (67-57) will open up an important three-game American League series on Friday night at Comerica Park, with the first pitch scheduled for 7:05 ET
Los Angeles Angels at Detroit Tigers
Los Angeles completed its first sweep in Boston since 2008 in capturing a 14-13 extra-innings victory on Thursday night, as the team recorded a season-high 20 hits without star first baseman Albert Pujols. “I think as far as having our backs against the wall, this was probably our best game all year,” stated Angels manager Mike Scioscia. Pujols is listed as day-to-day, which is disappointing due to leading the majors with 14 home runs since the All-Star break. Los Angeles is 16-17 against AL Central opponents this year.
Angels starting pitcher Zack Greinke (10-5, 4.01 ERA) has watched his new club drop four of five games since being acquired from the Milwaukee Brewers, including an 8-3 home setback to the Tampa Bay Rays last time out. The right-hander is 5-3 with a 4.59 ERA in 15 road outings, with opposing hitters batting .300 against him. In 25 career games (22 starts) versus the Tigers, Greinke has tallied an 11-6 record and 2.84 ERA, including a 7-4 mark and 2.78 ERA in 14 outings (12 starts) at Comerica Park.
Detroit also came away with a victory despite its star player missing some time, coming away with a 3-2 walk-off win over the Toronto Blue Jays. Tigers third baseman Miguel Cabrera left yesterday’s game with a sore right ankle, which could impact his numbers down the stretch, entering this series with a .326 average, 31 home runs and 105 RBIs. Detroit is a disappointing 9-15 against AL West foes, with the “over” going 13-10 in those contests.
Tigers starting pitcher Rick Porcello (9-8, 4.67 ERA) has suffered back-to-back losses to the Baltimore Orioles and Texas Rangers, allowing nine runs (seven earned) and 16 hits over 12 combined innings. The right-hander is 4-4 with a 4.62 ERA in 13 home games, with opposing hitters batting .312 against him. In six career efforts against the Angels, Porcello has tallied a 3-1 record and 6.29 ERA, including a no-decision effort in an 8-6 home win on July 16.
Sports bettors will likely back the Tigers due to their 5-0 record in Porcello’s last five home starts in this series, while the Angels are 1-4 in the last five meetings overall.
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