Here is a turn around. The offense-starved Tigers are out-hitting the Guardians in their last 7games. Not that the Tigers have been great, but the Guardians are hitting just 180, with an OPS of .574.

Civale starts for the Guardians, and unlike last year when he was unbeatable early, the season could hardly have gone worse for him. He has a 9.85 ERA, very short starts, with opposing batters hitting well over .300 against him.

His mound opponent, lefty Tariq Skubal has been very good, with a couple of sub-par starts compared to 5 quality appearances including 3 shut outs. He has pitched into the 6th and 7th, and is also getting some run support.

Detroit is not gifted on offense. They have produced 4 or more runs in just 3 of 10 games, but they will get an opportunity against Civale. They also have a very good bullpen this year. The Guardians have not excelled vs left-handed pitching, and their relievers have been unimpressive lately. Civale’s lengthy struggles do not suggest an immediate turn-around. Mark my words,I am wagering on the Tigers to win on Friday.