As the Detroit Tigers prepare to face off against the Pittsburgh Pirates at Comerica Park on May 28, fans are eagerly anticipating a game that could be pivotal for both teams. The Tigers have had a challenging season so far, with their recent games highlighting some critical areas of concern. However, this upcoming match presents an opportunity for Detroit to turn things around.

Apr 9, 2024; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates starting pitcher Martin Perez (54) throws against the Detroit Tigers during the second inning at PNC Park. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

In their last three games against the Kansas City Royals, the Tigers struggled significantly in both hitting and pitching. On May 22, they managed only six hits and three runs while committing one error. Their batting average was a dismal .176 with an on-base percentage of .3 and a slugging percentage of .206. These numbers indicate that Detroit's offense has been lackluster, failing to capitalize on scoring opportunities.

The pitching staff has also faced its share of difficulties. In their most recent game on May 22, starter Tarik Skubal allowed four earned runs over five innings pitched, resulting in an ERA of 7.2 for starters overall in that game. The bullpen did not fare much better, giving up another four earned runs over three innings with an ERA of 12.0.

Apr 9, 2024; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates relief pitcher David Bednar (51) throws against the Detroit Tigers during the ninth inning at PNC Park. Detroit won 5-3. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

Despite these struggles, there are reasons to believe that Detroit can put up a strong fight against Pittsburgh. One key area where improvement is possible is in situational hitting; the Tigers left ten runners on base during their last outing against Kansas City but showed some promise by driving in three runs with two outs.

Defensively, while errors have been an issue—Detroit committed two errors leading to unearned runs—the team has shown flashes of solid fielding capabilities with double plays and assists from various positions.

Apr 9, 2024; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Detroit Tigers shortstop Javier Baez (28) forces out Pittsburgh Pirates shortstop Alika Williams (25) at second base on a fielders choice during the fifth inning at PNC Park. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

On the other side of the diamond stands Pittsburgh—a team currently performing better than Detroit but not without its vulnerabilities. The Pirates' recent performance indicates they can be inconsistent offensively; if Detroit's pitchers can exploit these inconsistencies by maintaining control and avoiding walks (something they've struggled with), they could keep Pittsburgh's run total manageable.

Pittsburgh’s pitching staff will also play a crucial role in determining how this game unfolds at Comerica Park. If they continue their trend from previous games where they've allowed multiple hits per inning along with occasional home runs (as seen when facing other teams), then it opens up opportunities for DET hitters like Spencer Torkelson or Riley Greene who have shown potential power despite overall team struggles.

Ultimately though—it all comes down to execution under pressure situations which hasn’t been DET’s forte recently but remains within reach given adjustments made during practice sessions leading up till now focusing primarily upon improving consistency across all facets whether it be timely hitting or minimizing defensive lapses thereby ensuring fewer unearned runs conceded thus providing greater chances securing victories moving forward especially starting right here versus PIT come Tuesday night!

Fans should tune into Bally Sports Detroit at 6:40 PM Eastern Time on May 28th as we witness whether these adjustments pay off allowing our beloved hometown heroes emerge victorious once again!

Tigers - Baseball - Opinion

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