The Detroit Tigers had a roller coaster ride of a first half. After many ups and downs, the Tigers finished the first half with a record of 46-43 and second in the American League Central Division. After big off season additions like Jordan Zimmerman, Justin Upton, Francisco Rodriguez, Cameron Maybin and Jarrod Saltalamacchia the Tigers were hoping for a bit more success than they have had so far. They are not in a bad position currently, but they are definitely not where they should be. Although they do not look like a first place team right now, they have plenty of time to get there.
The Tigers have not lived up to their expectations that the fans have for them, but do not worry Detroit fans, they will get there. When the season began newly acquired pitcher Jordan Zimmerman looked like a stud and new closer Francisco "K-Rod" Rodriguez did not look so hot, but both of those situations have dramatically changed. Zimmerman has struggled in his last few starts and K-Rod has been solid in almost all of his appearances. Although Zimmerman has yet to prove his worth to the team, rookie pitcher Michael Fulmer has had an outstanding season so far. In 13 starts, Fulmer is 9-2 with 2.11 era and is looking to become the ace of the future for the Tigers.
Another big off season addition who has not been as good as Tigers fans had hoped is outfielder Justin Upton. He is only batting .235 with 9 homers, 38 RBI's, and 5 stolen bases. If the Tigers want to make a postseason run, they need Upton to step up his game like fellow teammate Nick Castellanos has. Nick has had an awesome season so far, offensively and defensively. He is having a career year, with .302 batting average, 17 homers, 51 RBI's, and 1 stolen base. Castellanos' offensive surge is one reason the Tigers are above .500 this season. If he keeps this power up, Detroit will be in good shape for the second half of the season.
Overall, the Detroit Tigers are in pretty good shape heading into the second half of the season, but there is still room for improvement. If Zimmerman and Upton start producing, the bullpen stays solid, and they finally start to beat up on the Cleveland Indians, they will have a shot at the division title and possibly a deep playoff run.
First Half MVP's: Michael Fulmer and Nick Castellanos
Second Half Prediction: The Tigers will be buyers at the trade deadline, they will surge their way into a wildcard spot and make a deep postseason run. World Series bound? It is not impossible, but it is unlikely that Tigers fans will see their team win it all.
