detroit tigers history
detroit tigers history
We all know the names Ty Cobb, Hank Greenburg, Hal Newhouser and Mickey Lolich; great players from a historic franchise. These are names that bring back memories of past glories and happier times. Lately, fans that have purchased Detroit Tigers tickets have been called upon to show patience with an interminable rebuilding process. Perhaps now this patience will be rewarded as a good blend of youth and experience take the field for the 2006 season. Tiger fans can only hope, as the look forward to experiencing a winning season at long last.
The Tigers have a long rich history but the 1968 team stands out as a memorable one. Stars like Al Kaline, Norm Cash, Denny McLain and Willie Horton terrorized the American League and went on to the World Series facing the St. Louis Cardinals, winning the World Championship in seven exciting games.
That’s the brand of excitement team management wants to bring back to the Motor City. The locals will purchase Detroit Tigers tickets if the team moves in that direction. Tigers team owner Michael Ilitch made a fortune from his “Little Caesar’s” pizza empire and he had hoped that the Midas touch he exhibited would transfer to baseball. As of yet it hasn’t. Along with GM Dave Dombrowski it seems they are slowly getting the hang of it.
Although their Tigers finished 28 game off the pace, they seem to have built a solid foundation with some good young pitching. Led by 22 year old Jeremy Bonderman and his 14-13 record, the Tigers now have some experience on the staff with the addition of Kenny Rogers. Mike Maroth must have a break out year after going 14-14 and it’s time for Nate Robertson to put it together or step aside for rookie Justin Verlander, who has enjoyed a good spring training. The Tigers signed Todd Jones after a 40 save season in Florida last year. Jones who embarks on his second tour in Detroit will handle the closer duties until Troy Percival recovers from elbow problems (if ever). Fernando Rodney will continue in his set-up role.
This team should score runs if Maggs Ordonez and Carlos Guillen come back healthy for a full season. These two along with Ivan Rodriguez, Placido Polanco and Craig Monroe make up a formidable lineup. First baseman Chris Shelton looks like an all-star in the making and Brandon Inge will continue to play solid shortstop.
Michael Ilitch and GM Dave Dombrowski have things moving in the right direction, but they have a bunch of games to make up if they are to unseat the White Sox and compete with Cleveland and Minnesota. Detroit is home to some of the best sports fans anywhere and they will buy Detroit Tigers tickets, filling up beautiful Comerica Park. Now it’s up to this new generation of Tigers to make it happen.
