Finally, since losing All-Stars Magglio Ordonez, Miguel Cabrera, Justin Verlander and Co., Detroit's youth movement is paying dividends. Both the team's offense and defense are ranked in the top five in the sport, ranking fifth in team earned-run average and fifth in OPS.

Starting pitcher Andre Pallante allowed three runs and four hits and four walks in 5 2/3 innings for his first loss at home since Sept. 10, 2024.

Oli leans left with his line-up configuration, in spite of the lefty starting. While Nootbaar gets a day off, Donovan in LF, Gorman at 2b, Burleson at 1b and Scott in CF edges the line-up left. This reflects the Tigers using one of their three lefties to open, plus another was used last night.