Bird watching

Baltimore comes to Detroit for 3 games, opening with Daniel Cabrera facing Jeremy Bonderman. This has the potential to be a gem if each pitches to his potential. Of course, that means limiting walks for Cabrera and getting out of the first inning for Bonderman. Cabrera tossed a gem against Detroit on April 9. Bonderman is due for some good luck.

Adam Loewen (2-0, 3.20) takes on Chad Durbin (1-1, 6.65) in the middle game of the set. Loewen struggles with walks, too, but the Tigers historically aren’t a team that draws many walks. That’s changed somewhat for the better this season, but we’ll see how it goes. Knocking Loewen out of the game doesn’t guarantee success, either, because the O’s pen – thanks in part to former Tiger Jamie Walker – has been solid. Durbin was great last time out, but I expect a return to earth.

I’m guessing the series comes down to Wednesday’s clash between Steve Trachsel and Nate Robertson. I like Nate in this spot, which hopefully means the Tigers take the series, 2-1.

Meanwhile, Maggs is scorching. He’s got at least 1 RBI in 10 of last 11 games. He’s .486/.558/.919 in last 10 with 3 HR and 18 RBI. For everything that’s gone wrong so far, the Tigs are still 13-11, which is 5th best in AL. Unfortunately, Cleveland, Minnesota and Chicago also are in the Top 6.