Detroit at Cleveland

The Tigers put themselves in a bad position by struggling in the second half, but they are putting pressure on the Indians and Yankees now. They have won five straight and are now 10-2 over their last 12. The pitching staff has allowed just 11 runs during this five game winning streak. Kenny Rodgers has missed most of the season, but since returning he has pitched the Tigers to two wins, and the Tigers are 6-2 in his starts overall. The Indians off a 13-2 run, have cooled some spliting their last four games. Paul Byrd has been on the mound at the right time, as the Indians have scored nearly 6 runs per game in his starts. Byrd has given up more hits than any pitcher in baseball over the last three years, as he has allowed 657 in just 557 innings, or 100 more than innings pitched. This year has been no exception, as Byrd has allowed 209 in 174 innings. The Indians are just 1-7 when they score 3 runs or less in his starts. With a hot Tiger staff, the runs may be at a premium. We like the hot Tigers to take the opener.