Shouldering the load

The Tigers are expected to find out today whether they’ve lost Placido Polanco for the season. Polanco injured his shoulder in last night’s win over the Red Sox, forcing Pudge Rodriguez to play second base for the first time in his career.

Pudge said after the game that Polanco was done for the year, which could be a significant blow for the Tigers. Polanco is a solid run producer, responsible for 0.92 runs per contest when using runs + RBI – HR / games played formula. More importantly, he is great in the No. 2 spot because he rarely strikes out (just 25 times in 435 AB). Plus, he's steady with the glove, too.

Omar Infante will take over at 2B, and will probably hit second sometimes. I’d expect Brandon Inge, Marcus Thames and Craig Monroe to hit in the No. 2 hole occasionally, too. Infante, who only has 140 AB this season, has batted at least twice in every spot in the lineup.

Jeremy Bonderman has deserved better his last two outings. He’s gotten no decisions despite allowing just four runs and 13 hits in 14.2 innings against the Twins and Red Sox. He’s struck out 13 and walked 3. It’s very nice to see him stepping up at this time of year.

Mike Maroth could be back soon if his next rehab start goes well. It might be perfect timing. Justin Verlander’s last two starts have lasted just 5 innings each and he’s allowed a total of 21 hits and 8 runs.

Nate Robertson has been an awful second-half pitcher in his career, but he’s been solid this season. Robertson has battled in every start and is 3-2 with a 4.73 ERA. Not super, but he’s keeping his team in games, and that’s what matters at this point.

Sean Casey has been playing well since joining the Tigers. He’s hitting .311-2-12 in 14 games and had a big 2-run double last night.