Royal treatment

Detroit got a split in Toronto, although that seems disappointing now after having the chance to take 3. The bats continue to sputter, seeming to do just enough, or not just enough. The Tigers have scored 10 runs twice this year, in 10-9 and 10-7 wins. They've scored two or fewer runs on four occasions, losing 3-1, 6-2, 2-1 and 2-1. In between are 6-5, 3-2, 3-1, 4-1, and 5-4 wins and a 5-3 loss. On the bright side, they're in every game. On the down side, so are their foes.

Kansas City comes to Comerica for 3 games now. The Tigs will send out Verlander, Maroth and Bonderman, which should lead to positive results, especially if Detroit would hit for Bonderman they way it does for Maroth.

The Royals counter with Zack Greinke, Jorge DeLaRosa and Gil Meche, which are their 3 top arms. Greinke is a Tiger killer: 6-1 with a 2.08 ERA in nine career appearances against the Tigers, and 4-1 with a 2.54 ERA at Comerica. He probably will get locked into one of those 2-1 type games with Verlander, who has had success against KC.

DeLaRosa baffled the Tigers earlier this season. Meche got hit by Detroit earlier this year, but has been good since. But the way Bonderman is pitching he'll need to be great.

Detroit should take 2; I hate to be greedy and ask for a sweep. If the Tigers can win 2, they would be on pace to win 97 games, which is terrific for a team that's batting .229 and slugging .357.

A little momentum for the White Sox series would be nice.