Matt Boyd (5-2, 4.09 ERA) and the Detroit Tigers (69-61) go up against James Shields (5-16, 5.98 ERA) and the Chicago White Sox (63-66) in the first of a three-game division series at Comerica Park. The game starts at 7:10 p.m. ET on Monday, Aug. 29 and will air on WPWR and FSDT.
In his most recent outing, Boyd pitched 6.0 innings, giving up three runs, striking out seven and walking one in a 9-4 victory over the Twins. Miguel Cabrera (.310, 72 Rs, 28 HRs, 79 RBIs) played well again yesterday, going 2 for 4. The White Sox were unsuccessful against the Phillies 5-3 the last time Shields pitched. He went 6.0 innings, allowing four runs and striking out six.
The odds are even for this game and the Over/Under (O/U) is currently unavailable. The Tigers have a SU record of 23-27 against teams in their division. Whenever an AL Central opponent shows up on the calendar, the Tigers seem to struggle with pitching. They allow an average of 4.5 runs per game, but allow 5.0 against teams from their own division. The Tigers don’t give up many walks to opposing batters, ranking fifth in the AL with only 2.8 walks allowed per game.
Against divisional foes, the White Sox are 20-29 SU.
The Tigers have mostly come out on top against the White Sox in their previous 13 games this season, earning an 8-5 record. This game will feature Shields (RHP) on the mound against the Tigers, who have a 51-40 record when they take on a right-handed starter. The left-handed Boyd will take the mound against the White Sox, who have a 15-11 record against lefty starters this season.
Predictions: SU Winner – DET
Notes
Chicago has won 52% (30-28) of its games when leading after seven innings. However, Detroit has won 56% (35-27) of its games when taking a late lead.
The White Sox are coming into this game after allowing one walk during their last outing. The Tigers have a 14-20 record when opponents give up one walk or less.
When they are outhit, the White Sox are 10-49. The Tigers have a 10-44 record when opponents outhit them.
Chicago ranks near the bottom of the league at 24th when it comes to home runs, hitting 130 this season. Detroit ranks in the top 10 with 170.
Ranking 10th, Chicago is in the top 10 of the league in hits, notching 8.65 per game. Detroit ranks in the top five at second with 9.16.
Ranking 25th, Chicago is near the bottom of the league for its on-base plus slugging percentage (.720). Detroit ranks in the top 10 at ninth with an OPS of .764.
When the White Sox allow at least one home run, they are 38-45, well-matched with the Tigers who are 37-44 when allowing at least one homer.
