Detroit Tigers Midseason Grades

July 13, 2013; Detroit, MI, USA; Detroit Tigers starting pitcher Max Scherzer (37) pitches in the first inning against the Texas Rangers at Comerica Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

STARTING PITCHERS

Justin Verlander B

We are all a little spoiled when it comes to Justin Verlander.  He velocity has been down and his control hasn’t been quite what we are used too. Sure he hasn’t been as dominate as he has in years past but lets be honest, most any pitcher in the league would take 10-6 with a 3.71 ERA at the All-Star break.

Max Scherzer A+

Max leads the league in wins and strike-outs and could have been the first since Roger Clemens to start 14-0 if his teammates gave him a little run support against the Rangers on July 13th.  Max has been this years version of must see TV and is a Cy Young contender.

Doug Fister B-

Fister is not a power pitcher and he depends on his control to place his fastball and set up his change. He has been plagued with control issues the first half but has managed to eat innings anyway. Fister is known for having a strong second half so look for improvement from him as the stretch run approaches.

Anibal Sanchez B

Had a stretch early in the season in which he was unhittable. The last few starts haven’t been as stellar and a brief stint on the DL took some of his momentum away.  That said he is below his career average in ERA and WHIP. If he stays consistent he could have a great second half.

Rick Porcello C+

Porcello has had a few outings where he looked like he had it all together. He would then follow-up with an outing that made him look like a starter in Toledo.  All in all though Rick Porcello is a fifth starter and considering that he has had a pretty good start to the season. He could be a nice piece of trade bait in the next few weeks.