June 21- DET 3 MIL 2
37-32 -1.5 STL
Verlander Still Has Crew's Number
It wasn't a no-hitter this time, but Detroit pitcher Justin Verlander finished off the Tigers 3 game sweep at Comerica with 7.2 innings in which he allowed 2 earned on 5 hits with 8 strikeouts. More importantly, Verlander was able to keep Fielder and Braun at an ofer, only letting Casey McGehee and Craig Counsell beating him for solo shots.

Other than spoiling a road trip that started 3-0, the loss spoiled a solid outing by Yovanni. In 7 innings, he gave up 3 and struckout 8. More importantly, I guess, he gave some rest to the bullpen, which only used Villy in the game. Hopefully, the day off on Monday gives ALL the arms a chance to get ready for the Twins.

Speaking of rest. It was announced on Monday that Dave Bush will skip his next start after he complained of fatigue after his last start. With the prospect of Parra staying in Nashville beyond the weekend, the Crew will have to figure something out, probably today, for a 5th starter.

June 20- DET 9 MIL 5
37-31 -0.5 STL
Shaving the Beard Doesn't Help Bush
Dave Bush improved SLIGHTLY over his last start. This time, he allowed only 5 runs before being lifted in the 4th as the Crew finally relinquished first place in the division. Alfredo Figaro made his major league debut and allowed 8 hits in 5 innings, but also struck out 7 and kept the Crew 1-8 with RISP. The 2 runs against a first timer and 2-14 with runners in scoring position in the game overall was embarrassing enough. Braun was 4-5 with his 15th home run, and Mat Gamel, now settling into his role as the everyday third basemen, was 2-3 with a couple of walks.

June 19- DET 10 MIL 4
37-30 +0.5 STL
Rain Shortens a Disappointing Night in Detroit
A Prince Fielder 3 run tater staked Braden Looper to an early lead, but he wasted no time in frittering it away. Giving up 7 runs before a rain delay halted play in the 4th. The game resumed with Chris Narveson taking the bump and allowing 3 more in 2.2 innings before another rain delay ended the game for good.

Casey McGehee continued to be the hottest hitter on the squad in spite of his banged up knee and ankle. Batting 2nd and DHing, the Cubs castoff was 2-3 with a walk and a run scored and is now hitting .351.