If the Tigers win a couple more...

[wade]

....soon, I'd put Verlander in the pen. He's in unchartered territory as far as innings pitched and his starts have been suffering lately. It would take a huge collapse for them to not make the playoffs. Once there, they will very likely go with Kenny Rogers, Jeremy Bonderman, then ...probably Verlander. I would suggest they go with Nate Robertson. He's been pretty good and they'd be able to cut back on Verlander a little.

 

If they win a couple of games in the next three days, I wouldn't let him start another game this season. Have him come out of the pen a time or two to see if that's agreeable.

 

I know he gives them a great chance to win, but Robertson's pretty strong, too. Their peripherals are pretty close, and you get to protect the youngster a little.

[SouthSideRyan]

It depends if the Tigers are set on winning the division. For the Tigers to be forced into a wild card playoff, the White Sox would have to go 10-0 while the Tigers went 4-6. The playoffs are theirs.

[NewUserName]

He already missed a start or 2 late last month if I remember correctly. this is certainly a tough spot for the Tigers. Bonderman has been ineffective the last month. Verlander is young and shouldnt be pitching as much. Maroth isnt "stretched out" I really think they are going to be a first round out in the playoffs.

 

Overall I agree they would be smart to stop Verlander now. I dont think it is going to happen though

[chuckywang]

Verlander 06 = Willis 03

 

We all saw how Willis got lit up in the NLCS.