Players To Watch
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Tigers' Spencer Torkelson Poised to Shine Against Pirates at Comerica Park

As the Detroit Tigers prepare to face off against the Pittsburgh Pirates at Comerica Park, all eyes will be on Spencer Torkelson, the Tigers' first baseman. Torkelson has been a standout performer for Detroit in recent games, boasting impressive statistics that could make a significant impact in the upcoming matchup.


Apr 8, 2024; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA;  Detroit Tigers  starting pitcher Reese Olson (45) delivers a pitch against the Pittsburgh Pirates during the first inning at PNC Park. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

In his last three games, Torkelson has demonstrated exceptional hitting prowess. He recorded a batting average of .600 with one home run and one RBI in one game, showcasing his ability to deliver under pressure. His on-base percentage (OBP) and slugging percentage (SLG) were both .600 and 1.400 respectively, leading to an outstanding OPS of 2.000. This level of performance indicates that Torkelson is not only consistent but also capable of producing game-changing hits.


Another key player for the Tigers is outfielder Mark Canha, who has also shown remarkable consistency at the plate. Canha's batting average over the last three games stands at .533 with an OBP of .589 and an OPS of 1.300. His ability to get on base and drive in runs will be crucial for Detroit's offensive strategy against Pittsburgh.


Apr 8, 2024; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA;  Detroit Tigers shortstop Javier Báez (28) fields ground balls before the game against the Pittsburgh Pirates at PNC Park. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

On the pitching side, Joey Wentz has struggled recently with an ERA of 18.00 and a WHIP of 2.00 in his last outing. However, relief pitcher Mason Englert has been a bright spot for the Tigers' bullpen, maintaining a perfect ERA of 0.00 and securing one win with nine strikeouts per nine innings pitched.


For the Pirates, right fielder Connor Joe has been their top performer with a batting average of .500 over three games and an OPS of 1.417 in one game where he had four at-bats without striking out once. Additionally, second baseman Ji Hwan Bae showed potential by hitting .500 with an OBP of .667 and driving in one run during his best game.


Apr 8, 2024; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA;  Pittsburgh Pirates right fielder Connor Joe hits an RBI double against the Detroit Tigers during the fifth inning at PNC Park. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

Pirates' starting pitcher Mitch Keller will be another player to watch closely. Keller posted an ERA of 1.35 and a WHIP of 0.90 across his recent appearances while winning one game for Pittsburgh. His control on the mound could pose challenges for Detroit's hitters if he maintains this form.


The upcoming game promises to be an exciting contest between two teams looking to capitalize on their strengths while addressing their weaknesses from previous outings.


Fans can catch all the action when the Tigers take on the Pirates at Comerica Park in Detroit on May 29th at 5:10 PM ET. The game will be broadcasted live on SportsNet PT.

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