Perspective

Stanley left a message that echoed the feelings I was going to share about the Tigers. OK, Detroit went 2-5 against the Yanks and Red Sox. However, they should have won the Boston series, if not for a blown save by Jones. They could have won another game against the Yanks (the 11-inning loss on May 30), thereby getting a split. And turning 2-5 into 4-3.

Even with their slump, which was inevitable given the way they'd been playing, they have the best record in the majors and a 2.5 lead over the CWS in the AL Central. As Stanley says, it's just time to grind it out until another hot streak comes around. Also, it shows the importance of whipping up on the weaker competition so you have a cushion to absorb slumps.

Justin Verlander was named the AL Rookie of the Month.

The Tigers grabbed UNC lefty pitching standout Andrew Miller with the sixth pick of today's draft. Many expected Miller to be the No. 1 player on the board, so this was quite a break for Detroit.