2012 DETROIT TIGERS SEASON SUMMARY...

Transcription

1 2012 DETROIT TIGERS SEASON SUMMARY... Detroit Tigers Media Relations Department w Comerica Park w Phone (313) w Fax (313) w Detroit, MI w A SECOND STRAIGHT AMERICAN LEAGUE CENTRAL DIVISION TITLE: The Tigers clinched the American League Central Divison for the second straight season on October 1 at Kansas City and advanced to the playoffs for the 14th time in franchise history. It marks the fifth time the Tigers have captured a division title since divisional play began during the 1969 season. Detroit has advanced to the playoffs in consecutive seasons for the first time since the club did so in both 1934 and MIGGY BRINGS HOME THE TRIPLE CROWN: Miguel Cabrera led the American League with a.330 batting average, 44 home runs and 139 RBI during the 2012 season to become the first player to win the Triple Crown since Boston s Carl Yastrzemski did so in It marked the 14th time since 1900 a player captured the Triple Crown and Cabrera is the 12th player to accomplish the feat during that time. He became the second Tigers player to do so, joining Ty Cobb (1909). CABRERA S SECOND STRAIGHT BATTING CROWN: Miguel Cabrera led the American League with a.330 batting average to capture his second straight batting crown. He is the first Tigers player to lead the American League in hitting in consecutive seasons since Ty Cobb did so in three straight seasons ( ). Cabrera led the American League with a.344 batting average during the 2011 season. CABRERA ESTABLISHES CAREER HIGH IN HOME RUNS: Miguel Cabrera established a career high with 44 home runs. He became the first Tigers player to connect for 40 home runs in a season since Cecil Fielder belted 44 home runs in It marked the 10th time in club history a Tigers player has hit 40-or-more home runs in a season and Cabrera became the sixth player in franchise history to do so. THIRD IN THE AMERICAN LEAGUE IN ERA: The Tigers finished third in the American League with a 3.75 ERA during the 2012 season. The club s 3.75 ERA marked the lowest ERA by a Detroit team since the club in 1988 posted a 3.71 ERA. PILING UP THE PUNCHOUTS: The Tigers finished second in the American League with 8.29 strikeouts per nine innings during the 2012 season, while the club tied for second with 1,318 strikeouts. The 8.29 strikeouts per nine innings marked the highest rate at which Tigers pitchers have struck out batters in club history. Detroit established a club record with 1,318 strikeouts during the 2012 season. The previous franchise record of 1,115 strikeouts was held by both the 1968 and 2011 teams. VERLANDER, SCHERZER SURPASS 200 STRIKEOUTS: Justin Verlander topped the American League with 239 strikeouts during the 2012 season, while Max Scherzer finished second with 231 strikeouts. Verlander and Scherzer became only the second duo in Tigers history to fan 200-or-more batters in a season. Mickey Lolich and Joe Coleman accomplished the feat three times for Detroit, doing so during the 1971, 1972 and 1973 seasons. VERLANDER POSTS 17-OR-MORE WINS FOR FOURTH STRAIGHT SEASON: Justin Verlander finished with 17 wins during the 2012 season, marking the sixth time during his career he has registered 17-or-more wins during a season. He became the fifth pitcher in Tigers history with at least six seasons of 17-or-more wins. Verlander has won 17-or-more games in each of his last four seasons, marking the longest such streak by a Tigers pitcher since Hal Newhouser posted six consecutive seasons with 17-or-more wins ( ). LEADING THE LEAGUE IN STRIKEOUTS FOR A SECOND STRAIGHT SEASON: Justin Verlander led the American League with 239 strikeouts during the 2012 season, marking the second consecutive season he has topped the American League in strikeouts. He is the first Tigers pitcher to lead the league in strikeouts in back-to-back seasons since Jim Bunning did so in both 1959 and FISTER FANS NINE STRAIGHT BATTERS: Doug Fister established a single-game American League record by fanning nine straight batters on September 27 versus Kansas City. The previous American League record during a single game was eight straight strikeouts by California s Nolan Ryan (July 9, 1972 and August 7, 1973), New York s Ron Davis (May 4, 1981), Boston s Roger Clemens (April 29, 1986) and Kansas City s Blake Stein (June 17, 2001). MORE ON FISTER S CONSECUTIVE STRIKEOUTS: Doug Fister s nine straight strikeouts on September 27 versus Kansas City established a Tigers single-game record. The previous record was seven consecutive strikeouts accomplished by both Denny McLain (June 15, 1965 versus Boston) and John Hiller (October 1, 1970 versus Cleveland). 50 WINS AT HOME: The Tigers compiled a record at Comerica Park this season. The club has won 50-or-more games in each of the last four seasons ( ). It marked the 21st time in franchise history the Tigers have won 50-or-more games at home during a season. JACKSON CONNECTS FOR SIX LEAD-OFF HOME RUNS IN 2012: Austin Jackson belted six lead-off home runs during the 2012 season and he now has connected for 10 such home runs during his career. His six lead-off home runs in 2012 are tied for third-most during a single season in club history. Jackson is fifth in Tigers history with 10 lead-off home runs during his career. THREE TIGERS SELECTED TO AMERICAN LEAGUE ALL-STAR SQUAD: Prince Fielder was elected by the fans as the American League s starting first baseman, while Justin Verlander and Miguel Cabrera were selected to the squad through the player balloting. It marked the seventh time Cabrera has been named an all-star, while it marked the fifth selection for Verlander and fourth selection for Fielder. FIELDER ELECTED STARTING FIRST BASEMAN FOR AMERICAN LEAGUE: Prince Fielder was elected as the American League s starting first baseman for the All-Star Game, and he became the sixth different Tigers first baseman to start an All-Star Game. Fielder started two times for the National League as a member of the Milwaukee Brewers, doing so in 2007 and PRINCE WINS HOME RUN DERBY: Prince Fielder belted 28 home runs as he won the State Farm Home Run Derby on July 9 in Kansas City, marking the second time he has won the home run hitting contest. He won the contest in 2009 in St. Louis. Fielder joins Ken Griffey, Jr. as the only players to win the contest multiple times. CABRERA, FIELDER FORM POWERFUL COMBO: Miguel Cabrera belted 44 home runs during the 2012 season, while Prince Fielder hit 30 home runs as the duo combined for 74 home runs for the Tigers. The 74 home runs are the most by a pair of Tigers players in a season since Cecil Fielder (44) and Mickey Tettleton (31) combined for 75 home runs for the club during the 1991 season. PAPA GRANDE CONVERTS HIS SAVE CHANCES: Jose Valverde has converted 110 of his 118 save opportunities for the Tigers since the beginning of the 2010 season. He is tops among all major league pitchers during that stretch by converting 93.2 percent of his save opportunities. Valverde is one of five pitchers in Tigers history to record 100-or-more saves for the team. A MODERN DAY IRON MAN: Prince Fielder was one of only three players in the American League to play in 162 games during the 2012 season, and he has now played in 343 consecutive games dating back to September 14, Fielder s streak of 343 consecutive games played is the longest such streak among all active major league players. NOTES ON THE SKIPPER: Jim Leyland has compiled a record (.535) during his seven seasons as the manger of the Tigers. - Leyland has registered 1,676 wins during his major league managerial career, 15th-most all-time in major league history. Leyland is tops among all active major league managers with 1,676 wins. - Leyland has managed 3,337 games during his career, placing him 15th all-time in major league history. - Leyland is one of only three managers in Tigers history to register at least 600 victories with the club. Sparky Anderson (1,331 wins) and Hughie Jennings (1,131 wins) are the two other managers in Tigers history with at least 600 wins with the club. - The Tigers have advanced to the post-season three times during Leyland s managerial career with the club, including winning the American League Central Division in each of the last two seasons. Leyland joins Hughie Jennings as the only two managers in Tigers history to lead the club to post-season play in three seasons. TIGERS SURPASS THREE MILLION MARK: The Tigers surpassed the three million mark in tickets sold for the third time in franchise history in 2012, finishing with 3,028,033 tickets sold. Detroit also surpassed the three million mark in tickets sold in both 2007 and LAKELAND WINS FLORIDA STATE LEAGUE CHAMPIONSHIP: Single A Lakeland captured the Florida State League Championship with a 2-0 win over Jupiter on September 12 at Joker Marchant Stadium, winning the best-of-five game series 3-2. The Flying Tigers won the Florida State League s North Division Championship by sweeping Dunedin 2-0 in a best-of-three games series. It marked Lakeland s first league championship since GARCIA, RONDON EARN MINOR LEAGUE HONORS: Avisail Garcia and Bruce Rondon were named the Tigers Minor League Player and Pitcher of the Year, respectively. Garcia hit.299 (144x481) with 17 doubles, eight triples, 14 home runs, 58 RBI and 23 stolen bases in 122 games with Single A Lakeland and Double A Erie. Rondon finished 2-1 with a 1.53 ERA (53.0IP/9ER), 29 saves and 66 strikeouts in 52 appearances with Lakeland, Erie and Triple A Toledo. CASTELLANOS TABBED MOST VALUABLE PLAYER OF THE FUTURES GAMES: Nick Castellanos was named the Most Valuable Player of the Futures Game held prior to Major League Baseball s All-Star Game in Kansas City in He finished with three hits, including a home run, and three RBI as he led the United States to a 17-5 win. vs. AL East: vs. AL Central: vs. AL West: vs. NL: 11-7 Tigers score first: Opponents score first: TIGERS AT A GLANCE IN 2012 Scoring five-or-more runs: Scoring four-or-less runs: Extra-innings: 4-5 One-run games: Tigers get quality start: Tigers starter works 6+ innings: Lead after 6th/7th/8th inning: 67-7/72-7/82-4 Trail after 6th/7th/8th inning: 9-56/8-58/3-61 Tied after 6th/7th/8th inning: 12-11/8-8/3-8 Tigers out hit opponent: Opponent out hits Tigers: Tigers and opponent have equal hits: 6-8 Detroit Tigers, W o r l d S e r i e s C h a m p i o n s w w w w

2 AL ALBURQUERQUE Sidelined April 4-August 23 as he continued to recover from right elbow surgery. Assigned to Single A Lakeland for an injury rehabilitation on July compiled a 5.40 ERA (3.1IP/2ER) and nine strikeouts in four outings with Lakeland. Had his injury rehabilitation transferred from Lakeland to Triple A Toledo on August 3 -- appeared in five games with the Mud Hens before he was recalled from his injury rehabilitation by the Tigers, reinstated from the disabled list and optioned to Toledo on August 23. Did not allow a run over his final six outings with the Mud Hens August 15-29, fanning 15 batters in 7.2 scoreless innings. Recalled from Toledo by the Tigers on September 2. Struck out a season-high four batters on September 20 versus Oakland. Did not allow a run in seven outings during September, fanning 17 batters in 12.1 innings of work. ALEX AVILA BRENNAN BOESCH Belted his first career walk-off home run on April 8 versus Boston, a two-run shot off Mark Melancon in the 11th inning. Collected a season-high three hits on May 4 versus the Chicago White Sox -- equaled the high with three hits on June 27 at Texas and September 15 at Cleveland. Drove in a season-best three runs on May 22 at Cleveland -- matched the best with three RBI on May 25 at Minnesota. Sidelined June 6-21 with a right hamstring strain. Assigned to Triple A Toledo for an injury rehabilitation on June hit.429 (3x7) with an RBI in three games with Toledo. Posted an 11-game hitting streak July 30-August 10, batting.457 (16x35) with four doubles, a home run and eight RBI. Batted.262 (74x282) versus righthanded pitchers...hit.176 (15x85) with lefties on the mound. MIGUEL CABRERA COLLIN BALESTER Made the Tigers Opening Day roster out of Spring Training -- allowed a run in nine of his 11 outings with the Tigers. Designated for by the Tigers on May his contract was outrighted to Triple A Toledo on May 29. Fanned a season-high four batters with Toledo on July 23 versus Indianapolis. Did not allow a run in seven straight outings August 5-22, fanning 10 batters in 9.2 scoreless innings. Compiled a 1-0 record, 2.87 ERA (15.2IP/5ER), one save and 17 strikeouts in 10 outings during August. Limited righthanded hitters to a.189 batting averge (18x95) with Toledo...lefties batted.267 (20x75) against him. DUANE BELOW Did not allow a run over his first eight outings of the season April 7- May 9, tossing 14.0 scoreless innings. Earned his first major league win on April 7 versus Boston after tossing 2.1 scoreless innings of relief. Tossed six scoreless innings of relief on April 21 versus Texas -- marked the longest outing by a Tigers reliever since Steve Sparks worked 7.2 innings on June 1, 2003 versus the New York Yankees... marked the longest scoreless outing by a Tigers reliever since Greg Keagle tossed 7.1 scoreless innings on June 24, 1996 at Oakland. Equaled a career high with four strikeouts on April 21 versus Texas and May 14 at Chicago s U.S. Cellular Field against the White Sox. Compiled a 6.89 ERA (15.2IP/12ER) over a stretch of seven outings (one start) June 27-August 13. Optioned to Triple A Toledo by the Tigers on August 13 for the remainder of the season -- finished 1-2 with a 6.23 ERA in four starts with the Mud Hens. JOAQUIN BENOIT Appeared in a career-high 73 games during the season for the Tigers, tying for seventh in the American League. Tied for sixth among all American League relievers with 84 strikeouts, while he tied for ninth with five wins. Fanned a season-high three batters on April 8 versus Boston -- matched the high with three strikeouts on April 17 at Kansas City, April 26 versus Seattle and August 31 versus the Chicago White Sox. Surrendered just an unearned run over a 13-outing stretch May 31- June fanned 13 batters in 14.0 innings during that stretch. Posted a 2.19 ERA (12.1IP/3ER) and 17 strikeouts in 13 outings during May. Compiled a 1.26 ERA (14.1IP/2ER) and 13 strikeouts in 13 appearances during June. Did not allow a run in 10 straight outings August 15-September 5, fanning 12 batters in nine scoreless innings. Matched a career high with a four-game winning streak August 17- September 27. Posted a 5-2 record and 2.70 ERA (43.1IP/13ER) in 42 outings at home...compiled a 0-1 record and 5.20 ERA (27.2IP/16ER) in 31 appearances on the road. Finished 1-1 with a 2.25 ERA (40.0IP/10ER) in 40 appearances prior to the all-star break...went 4-2 with a 5.52 ERA (31.0IP/19ER) in 33 outings following the all-star break. QUINTIN BERRY Saw his first major league action with the Tigers -- tied for second among American League rookies with 21 stolen bases...is the 13th rookie in Tigers history to steal 20-or-more bases. Assigned to Triple A Toledo to begin the 2012 season. Compiled a 12-game hitting streak with Toledo April 23-May 7, batting.354 (17x48). Had his contract purchased by the Tigers from Toledo on May made his major league debut that night at Cleveland, collecting a double off Zach McAllister for his first major league hit. Hit safely in each of his first six games May became the first Tigers player since at least 1918 to hit safely in each of his first six games to begin his major league career. Established a career high with five hits on June 17 versus Colorado -- according to the Elias Sports Bureau, he became the fifth Tigers rookie in the last 80 years to have a perfect day at the plate while collecting at least five hits...joined Red Borom (September 1, 1945), Jake Wood (August 8, 1961), Curtis Granderson (September 18, 2005) and Austin Jackson (April 30, 2010) in accomplishing the feat. Collected a walk-off single in the 10th inning on June 21 versus St. Louis -- according to the Elias Sports Bureau, he is only the third club rookie to record a walk-off hit in the last 14 seasons...joined Carlos Pena (September 13, 2002) and Curtis Granderson (September 26, 2005) in accomplishing the feat. Belted his first major league home run on June 24 at Pittsburgh, a two-run shot off Kevin Correia in the first inning. Hit.268 (63x235) versus righthanded pitchers...batted.214 (12x56) with lefties on the mound. Batted.299 (43x144) in 42 games prior to the all-star break...hit.218 (32x147) in 52 games following the all-star break. Hit.367 (22x60) with runners in scoring position. Drove in a season-high four runs on April 12 versus Tampa Bay. Compiled a season-best 12-game hitting streak May 7-19, batting.341 (15x44) with two doubles, a home run and three RBI. Collected a season-high four hits on June 13 at Chicago s Wrigley Field against the Cubs. Hit.385 (20x52) with six doubles, four home runs and 16 RBI over a 15-game stretch July Batted.295 (23x78) with seven doubles, four home runs and 17 RBI in 23 games during July. Batted.254 (59x232) with three home runs in 65 games on the road...hit.227 (54x238) with nine home runs in 67 games at home. Hit.279 (34x122) with runners in scoring position. Led the American League with a.330 batting average, 44 home runs and 139 RBI to become the first player to win the Triple Crown since Boston s Carl Yastrzemski did so in it marked the 14th time since 1900 a player captured the Triple Crown and Cabrera is the 12th player to accomplish the feat during that time...he is the second Tigers player to do so, joining Ty Cobb (1909). Topped the American League with 377 total bases, 84 extra-base hits and a.606 slugging percentage, while he finished second with 109 runs scored and 205 hits, fourth with a.393 on-base percentage and seventh with 40 doubles. Selected to the American League s all-star squad for the third time during his Tigers career. Captured the American League batting title by hitting.330, marking the second straight season he won the title -- became the first Tigers player to lead the league in hitting in consecutive seasons since Ty Cobb did so in three straight seasons ( ). Belted 44 home runs during the season, becoming the first Tigers player to connect for 40-or-more home runs in a season since Cecil Fielder belted 44 home runs in it marks the 10th time in club history a Tigers player has hit 40-or-more home runs in a season and Cabrera is the sixth player in franchise history to do so... additionally, he became the first player in Tigers history to belt 30-or-more home runs in five straight seasons. Collected 139 RBI during the season, marking the fifth straight season he has posted 100-or-more RBI for the Tigers -- he became only the third player in Tigers history to collect 100-or-more RBI in at least five straight seasons...harry Heilmann drove in 100-or-more runs in seven straight seasons ( ), while Charlie Gehringer did so in five straight seasons ( ). Finished with 40 doubles and 44 home runs during the season, joining Hank Greenberg as the only two players in Tigers history to collect 40-or-more doubles and 40-or-more home runs during the same season...greenberg accomplished the feat for Detroit in both 1937 and Collected 205 hits during the season, marking the first time he has finished with 200-or-more hits during a season -- he became the 21st player in Tigers history to collect 200-or-more hits during a season. Recorded 377 total bases during the season, marking the fifth straight season he has posted 300-or-more total bases for the Tigers -- he became the first player in club history to post 300-or-more total bases in five consecutive seasons. Tabbed the best hitter in the American League by Baseball America. Belted a season-high two home runs on April 7 versus Boston -- matched the high with two home runs on June 2 versus the New York Yankees, July 4 versus Minnesota, July 22 versus the Chicago White Sox and September 18 versus Oakland. Selected the American League Player of the Week for April hit.455 (5x11) with three home runs and eight RBI in three games during the week. Collected the 1,000th RBI of his career on April 27 at New York s Yankee Stadium -- according to the Elias Sports Bureau, he became the sixth-youngest player in major league history to reach 1,000 RBI, trailing Mel Ott (27), Jimmie Foxx (27), Alex Rodriguez (28), Ken Griffey, Jr. (28) and Lou Gehrig (28). Selected the Tigers Player of the Month for April -- batted.298 (25x84) with two doubles, seven home runs and 20 RBI in 22 games during the month...tied for fourth in the American League with seven home runs and 20 RBI during April. Collected a season-high four hits on May 10 at Oakland -- equaled the high with four hits on May 30 at Boston, June 28 at Tampa Bay and October 1 at Kansas City. Hit.331 (41x124) with 11 doubles, two home runs and 22 RBI in 29 games during May -- led the American League with 41 hits during the month, while he tied for second with 11 doubles, tied for fifth with 22 RBI and finished eighth with a.331 batting average. Batted.311 (33x106) with 10 doubles, seven home runs and 20 RBI in 27 games during June -- fourth in the American League with 10 doubles during the month, while he tied for eighth with seven home

3 runs and 20 RBI and tied for 10th with 33 hits. Belted the 300th home run of his major league career on July 22 versus the Chicago White Sox, a solo shot off Philip Humber -- according to STATS LLC, he became the 14th player in major league history to hit his 300th home run prior to turning 30 years old...he became the second player born in Venezuela to collect 300 home runs during his career, joining Andres Galarraga. Selected the Tigers Player of the Month for July -- hit.344 (33x96) with five doubles, nine home runs and 23 RBI in 26 games during the month...third in the American League with nine home runs during July, while he tied for third with 23 RBI, tied for sixth with 33 hits and tied for eighth with a.344 batting average. Tabbed the American League Player of the Month for August -- hit.357 (35x98) with six doubles, eight home runs and 24 RBI in 26 games during the month...second in the American League with eight home runs during August, while he tied for second with 24 RBI, finished fifth with a.357 batting average and tied for seventh with 35 hits...marked the second time he earned American League Player of the Month honors with Detroit (also, July of 2008) to join Alan Trammell as the only two players in Tigers history to win the award multiple times...trammell earned the honors in April of 1984 and September of Selected the American League Player of the Week for September after hitting.407 (11x27) with two doubles, three home runs and seven RBI in six games during the week. Posted a season-high 14-game hitting streak September 10-24, batting.368 (21x57) with six doubles, seven home runs and 17 RBI. Belted a grand slam on September 18 versus Oakland -- matched a career high with six RBI. Garnered Tigers Player of the Month honors for September after hitting.308 (32x104) with six doubles, 10 home runs and 27 RBI in 28 games -- led the American League with 27 RBI during the month, while he finished third with 10 home runs. Hit.356 (62x174) with runners in scoring position -- fourth-best in the American League. PHIL COKE Completed his third season with the Tigers, appearing in 66 games. Tossed a season-best two innings on April 24 versus Seattle -- matched the high with two innings pitched on June 12 at Chicago s Wrigley Field against the Cubs, June 16 versus Colorado and July 2 versus Minnesota. Fanned a season-high four batters on June 12 at Chicago s Wrigley Field against the Cubs. Posted a 1.17 ERA (15.1IP/2ER) over a 16-outing stretch June 15- July 28. Compiled a 2.53 ERA (10.2IP/3ER) and 13 strikeouts in 11 outings during June. Posted a 2.61 ERA (10.1IP/3ER) in 11 appearances during July. Did not allow a run in 11 straight outings August 11-September 17, fanning eight batters in 5.1 scoreless innings. Compiled a 3.38 ERA (26.2IP/10ER) in 34 appearances at home... posted a 4.61 ERA (27.1IP/14ER) in 32 outings on the road. Posted a 3.16 ERA (37.0IP/13ER) in 40 outings prior to the all-star break...compiled a 5.82 ERA (17.0IP/11ER) in 26 appearances following the all-star break. Lefthanded hitters batted.263 (31x118) against him...righties batted.396 (40x101) with him on the mound. CASEY CROSBY Spent the majority of the season with Triple A Toledo -- tied for the lead on the Mud Hens staff with seven wins, while he tied for second with 112 strikeouts. Compiled a six-game winning streak with the Mud Hens April 20- July 6 -- posted a 2.54 ERA (63.2IP/18ER) and 63 strikeouts during the 10-start stretch. Fanned a season-high 10 batters on May 26 at Pawtucket. Recalled from Toledo by the Tigers on June 1 -- made his major league debut that night versus the New York Yankees, suffering the loss after allowing six runs in 3.1 innings of work. Earned his first major league win on June 7 versus Cleveland. Optioned to Toledo by the Tigers for the remainder of the season on June 15. Went the distance in back-to-back starts August 15 at Syracuse and August 21 at Lehigh Valley -- tied for third in the International League with two complete games. ANDY DIRKS Completed his first full season at the major league level with the Tigers, hitting.322 in 88 games. Equaled a career high with four hits on May 10 at Oakland. Batted.343 (35x102) with eight doubles, three home runs and 11 RBI in 27 games during May -- sixth in the American League with a.343 batting average during the month, while he tied for eighth with 35 hits. Sidelined May 31-August 3 with right achilles tendinitis. Assigned to Triple A Toledo on an injury rehabilitation on July hit.216 (8x37) with a double, two home runs and five RBI in 10 games with Toledo. Hit.341 (29x85) with seven doubles, a triple, home run and 11 RBI in 25 games during August -- finished 10th in the American League with a.341 batting average during the month. Hit.417 (20x48) over his final 13 games of the season September 19-October 3. Batted.347 (52x150) in 43 games at home...hit.299 (49x164) in 45 games on the road. Hit.328 (44x134) in 37 games prior to the all-star break...batted.317 (57x180) in 51 games following the all-star break. Batted.336 (81x241) versus righthanded pitchers...hit.274 (20x73) with lefties on the mound. Hit.321 (25x78) with runners in scoring position. OCTAVIO DOTEL Completed his first season with the Tigers, appearing in 57 games. Sixth among all American League relievers with 5.17 strikeouts per walk. Did not allow a run over his first first nine appearances of the season April 7-28, fanning 10 batters in 8.2 scoreless innings. Made the 700th appearance of his major league career on April 21 versus Texas -- became the 93rd pitcher in major league history to appear in 700 games. Fanned a season-high four batters on May 26 at Minnesota -- equaled the high with four strikeouts on July 22 versus the Chicago White Sox. Sidelined June 3-19 with right elbow inflammation. Posted a season-high four-game winning streak July 5-August 31. Compiled a 2-0 record, 1.86 ERA (9.2IP/2ER) and 11 strikeouts in nine outings during July. Posted a 2-0 record and 1.69 ERA (16.0IP/3ER) in 14 appearances during August. Limited righthanded hitters to a.197 batting average (27x137)... lefties batted.288 (23x80) against him. DARIN DOWNS Assigned to Triple A Toledo to begin the 2012 season. Did not allow a run over his final 10 appearances with the Mud Hens June 9-July 2, tossing 8.1 scoreless innings. Had his contract purchased by the Tigers from Toledo on July 3 -- made his major league debut that night versus Minnesota, tossing a scoreless inning of relief. Established a career high with five strikeouts on July 5 versus Minnesota. Earned his first major league win on August 5 versus Cleveland. Posted a 4.80 ERA (15.0IP/8ER) in 11 outings at home...did not allow a run in seven appearances on the road, tossing 5.2 innings. Limited lefthanded hitters to a.171 batting average (6x35)...righties batted.293 (12x41) against him. PRINCE FIELDER Elected the American League s starting first baseman for the All-Star Game -- marked the fourth all-star selection of his career and the third time he has been elected a starter (also, 2007 and 2011). Belted 28 home runs as he won the State Farm Home Run Derby on July 9 in Kansas City, marking the second time he has won the home run hitting contest (also, 2009 in St. Louis) -- joined Ken Griffey, Jr. as the only players to win the contest multiple times. Second in the American League with a.412 on-base percentage, while he finished fifth with 108 RBI, sixth with 85 walks, tied for sixth with a.313 batting average, finished seventh with a.528 slugging percentage, tied for ninth with 182 hits and finished 10th with 307 total bases. Saw action in all 162 games during the season, one of three players in the American League to do so -- has played in 343 consecutive games dating back to September 14, marks the longest active streak in the major leagues. Hit by a pitch 17 times, tied for the lead in the American League -- his 17 hit by pitches are tied for fifth-most in franchise history. Belted 30 home runs, marking the sixth consecutive season he has hit 30-or-more home runs. Belted a season-high two home runs on April 7 versus Boston -- matched the high with two home runs on August 17 versus Baltimore. Singled off Clay Buchholz in the first inning on April 8 versus Boston for the 1,000th hit of his major league career. Hit.309 (25x81) with two doubles, three home runs and 11 RBI in 22 games during April. Compiled a season-best 14-game hitting streak May 24-June 7, batting.423 (22x52) with four doubles, a triple, two home runs and 12 RBI. Collected a season-high four hits on May 26 at Minnesota -- matched the high with four hits on October 1 at Kansas City. Selected the Tigers Player of the Month for May -- batted.330 (38x115) with nine doubles, a triple, five home runs and 22 RBI in 29 games during the month...tied for fifth in the American League with 22 RBI during May, while he tied for sixth with nine doubles and finished ninth with a.330 batting average. Posted a 12-game hitting streak July 1-16, batting.348 (16x46) with two doubles, three home runs and 13 RBI. Batted.315 (28x89) with three doubles, four home runs and 20 RBI in 26 games during July -- tied for sixth in the American League with 20 RBI during the month. Tabbed the Tigers Player of the Month for August -- hit.370 (34x92) with six doubles, seven home runs and 21 RBI in 27 games during the month...topped the American League with a.370 batting average during August, while he tied for third with seven home runs and tied for eighth with 21 RBI. Hit.337 (94x279) in 81 games at home...batted.291 (88x302) in 81 games on the road. Batted.299 (96x321) in 86 games prior to the all-star break...hit.331 (86x260) in 76 games following the all-star break. Batted.328 (119x363) with righthanded pitchers on the mound...hit.289 (63x218) with lefties on the mound. Hit.338 (51x151) with runners in scoring position, 10th-best in the American League. DOUG FISTER Completed his first full season with the Tigers, winning 10 games. Sidelined April 8-May 7 with a left costochondral strain. Assigned to Triple A Toledo for an injury rehabilitation on May 2 -- started that evening versus Pawtucket, fanning five batters as he tossed four shutout innings. Compiled a 3.52 ERA (30.2IP/12ER) in five starts during May. Sidelined May 29-June 16 with a left side strain. Registered a quality start in seven straight outings July 13-August finished 5-1 with a 1.52 ERA (53.1IP/9ER) and 48 strikeouts during the stretch. Fanned a season-high 10 batters on July 18 versus the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim -- equaled the high with 10 strikeouts on

4 September 27 versus Kansas City. Selected the Tigers Pitcher of the Month for July -- posted a 4-2 record, 3.60 ERA (40.0IP/16ER) and 37 strikeouts in six starts during the month...tied for third in the American League with four wins during July, while he tied for sixth with 37 strikeouts. Went the distance to earn the win on August 4 versus Cleveland -- marked the fourth complete game of his major league career. Did not make his scheduled start on August 25 versus the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim due to right groin soreness. Posted a 2-1 record, 3.38 ERA (32.0IP/12ER) and 25 strikeouts in five starts during August. Tossed the first shutout of his major league career on September 22 versus Minnesota, fanning seven batters as he allowed seven hits -- marked the fifth complete game of his major league career. Established a single-game American League record by striking out nine straight batters on September 27 versus Kansas City -- the previous single-game American League record was eight straight strikeouts by California s Nolan Ryan (July 9, 1972 and August 7, 1973), New York s Ron Davis (May 4, 1981), Boston s Roger Clemens (April 29, 1986) and Kansas City s Blake Stein (June 17, 2001)...Fister eclipsed the previous single-game Tigers record of seven straight strikeouts held by Denny McLain (June 15, 1965 versus Boston) and John Hiller (October 1, 1970 versus Cleveland). Compiled a 3-1 record, 2.34 ERA (34.2IP/9ER) and 31 strikeouts in five starts during September -- tied for fifth in the American League with three wins during the month, while he finished 10th with a 2.34 ERA. Posted an 8-4 record and 2.67 ERA (101.0IP/30ER) in 15 starts following the all-star break...finished 2-6 with a 4.75 ERA (60.2IP/32ER) in 11 starts prior to the all-star break. Limited righthanded hitters to a.220 batting average (56x255)... lefties batted.270 (100x371) with Fister on the mound. AVISAIL GARCIA Tabbed the Tigers Minor League Player of the Year as he saw action with Single A Lakeland and Double A Erie -- hit.299 (144x481) with 17 doubles, eight triples, 14 home runs, 58 RBI and 23 stolen bases in 122 games between the two clubs. Assigned to Lakeland to begin the 2012 season. Compiled an 11-game hitting streak April 17-30, batting.444 (20x45) with three doubles, a triple, three home runs and nine RBI. Batted.400 (34x85) with three doubles, a triple, three home runs and 13 RBI in 21 games during April. Sidelined May with a left hamstring strain. Had his option transferred from Lakeland to Erie on July 4. Posted an 11-game hitting streak July 23-August 2, batting.388 (19x49) with three doubles, a home run and five RBI. Collected a season-high four hits on July 26 versus Richmond. Hit.330 (38x115) with six doubles, a triple, three home runs and 14 RBI in 28 games during August. Recalled by the Tigers from Erie on August made his major league debut that evening versus the Chicago White Sox as a defensive replacement in right field. Collected his first major league hit on September 1 versus the Chicago White Sox, a single off Francisco Liriano. BRYAN HOLADAY Spent the majority of the season with Triple A Toledo, batting.240 in 75 games with the club. Drove in a season-high three runs on April 19 at Louisville. Batted.475 (19x40) with four doubles and five RBI over an 11-game stretch May 31-July 3. Had his contract purchased by the Tigers from Toledo on June 6 -- made his major league debut that night versus Cleveland, collecting a single off Jeanmar Gomez for his first major league hit. Optioned to Toledo by the Tigers on June 21. Collected a season-high four hits on June 22 versus Norfolk. Hit.310 (18x58) against lefthanded pitchers with Toledo...batted.219 (42x192) with righties on the mound. Recalled by the Tigers from Toledo on September 1. OMAR INFANTE Opened the season with the Miami Marlins -- hit.287 (94x328) with 23 doubles, two triples, eight home runs, 33 RBI and 10 stolen bases in 85 games with the Marlins. Matched a career high with two home runs on April 9 at Philadelphia. Batted.323 (20x62) with six doubles, two triples, five home runs and seven RBI in 18 games during April. Collected four hits on May 15 versus Pittsburgh to equal a career high -- matched the high with four hits on May 24 versus San Francisico and August 5 versus Cleveland. Hit.314 (32x102) with seven doubles, a home run and 13 RBI in 26 games during May. Acquired by the Tigers in a five-player deal (both clubs swapped a compensation draft choice as well) with the Marlins on July 23. Compiled a season-high 10-game hitting streak July 29-August 9, batting.405 (15x37). Collected the 1,000th hit of his major league career on September 8 at the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim, a run-scoring single off C.J. Wilson. Batted.317 (51x161) versus lefthanded pitchers...hit.257 (101x393) with righties on the mound. Hit.290 (84x290) in 75 games prior to the all-star break...batted.258 (68x264) in 74 games following the all-star break. AUSTIN JACKSON Completed his third season with the Tigers, establishing career highs with a.300 batting average, 16 home runs and 66 RBI. Topped the American League with 10 triples, while he tied for fifth with 103 runs scored and tied for eighth with a.377 on-base percentage. Finished the season with 29 doubles, 10 triples, 16 home runs and 12 stolen bases -- marked the 19th time a Tigers player has posted double-digit totals during a single season in those four categories... he is the fifth player in fanchise history to accomplish the feat in multiple seasons, joining Bobby Veach (1920, 1921), Ty Cobb (1921, 1925), Charlie Gehringer (1929, 1930) and Curtis Granderson (2007, 2008). Tabbed the third-best defensive outfielder in the American League by Baseball America. Collected a hit on both the first pitch and last pitch the Tigers saw on April 5 versus Boston -- according to STATS LLC, he is the first Tigers player to do so in a game since Gary Pettis accomplished the feat on July 29, 1989 versus Minnesota. Finished with a season-high four hits on April 8 versus Boston -- matched the high with four hits on April 27 at New York s Yankee Stadium, May 1 versus Kansas City, June 28 at Tampa Bay and August 5 versus Cleveland. Led off the game on April 16 at Kansas City with a home run off Danny Duffy, his fifth career lead-off home run -- connected for a lead-off home run five more times during the season, doing so on May 6 versus the Chicago White Sox (Dylan Axelrod), July 15 at Baltimore (Miguel Gonzalez), July 30 at Boston (Clay Buchholz), August 11 at Texas (Derek Holland) and September 22 versus Minnesota (Samuel Deduno). Sidelined May 17-June 9 with an abdominal strain. Hit.400 (22x55) with four doubles, a triple, two home runs and 10 RBI in 15 games during May. Assigned to Triple A Toledo for an injury rehabilitation on June 7 -- batted.125 (1x8) in two games with Toledo. Established a career high with a 16-game hitting streak June 24- July batted.391 (27x69) with two doubles, three triples, two home runs and eight RBI over the course of the streak. Scored a run in 13 straight games June 30-July longest such streak by a Tigers player since Johnny Groth also scored a run in 13 consecutive games August 14-26, Selected the Tigers Player of the Month for June -- hit.317 (26x82) with six doubles, a triple, three home runs and 17 RBI in 20 games during the month. Equaled a career high with four RBI on July 21 versus the Chicago White Sox. Batted.304 (31x102) with two doubles, two triples, three home runs and 13 RBI in 26 games during July. Connected for the first inside-the-park home run of his career on August 10 at Texas -- first inside-the-park home run by a Tigers player since Curtis Granderson did so on August 26, 2007 versus the New York Yankees...Jackson added a triple in the game at Texas to become the first Tigers player with both a triple and an insidethe-park home run in the same game since Steve Kemp did so on September 4, 1977 versus Oakland. Batted.332 (84x253) in 64 games prior to the all-star break...hit.272 (79x290) in 73 games following the all-star break. DON KELLY Equaled a career high with three RBI on April 19 versus Texas. Designated for by the Tigers on August 3 -- his contract was outrighted to Triple A Toledo on August 9. Batted.280 (14x50) with two doubles, a home run and 10 RBI over a 13-game stretch August Had his contract purchased from Toledo by the Tigers on September 1 -- saw action in 11 games during September and October. GERALD LAIRD Served as Detroit s back-up catcher during the 2012 season, hitting.282 in 63 games. Collected a season-high three hits on April 15 at Chicago s U.S. Cellular Field against the White Sox -- matched the high with three hits on June 17 versus Colorado, July 7 versus Kansas City and September 18 versus Oakland. Batted.382 (29x76) versus righthanded pitchers...hit.204 (20x98) with lefties on the mound. Hit.306 (30x98) in 36 games prior to the all-star break...batted.250 (19x76) in 27 games following the all-star break. LUIS MARTE Sidelined April 4-May 25 with a left hamstring strain. Assigned to Single A Lakeland on an injury rehabilitation on May fanned three batters in two scoreless innings during his only outing. Had his injury rehabilitation transferred from Lakeland to Triple A Toledo on May fanned two batters in three scoreless innings during his only outing. Equaled a career high with three strikeouts on May 28 at Boston and June 1 versus the New York Yankees. Optioned to Toledo by the Tigers on July 2. Recalled by the Tigers from Toledo on July appeared in one game with Detroit before being optioned back to Toledo on July 16. Compiled a three-game winning streak July 30-August 17. Posted a 2-0 record, 0.90 ERA (10.0IP/1ER) and 15 strikeouts over his final seven outings of the season with Toledo August Fanned a season-high six batters on August 17 at Syracuse. Recalled from Toledo by the Tigers on September 1 -- appeared in three games, not allowing a run in five innings of work. VICTOR MARTINEZ Sidelined for the entire 2012 season after he underwent microfracture surgery and repairs to both the medial and lateral meniscus in his left knee on January 27, a procedure performed by Dr. Richard Steadman in Vail, Colorado. Dr. Richard Steadman assessed the stability of the ACL in the left knee of Martinez on April 4 and decided reconstruction surgery was not necessary...dr. Steadman performed a procedure that day to help aid in the healing of the ACL. JOSE ORTEGA Appeared in 45 games as he spent the majority of the season with Triple A Toledo. Rated as possessing the best fastball in the International League by

5 Baseball America. Compiled a 2.25 ERA (8.0IP/2ER) and 10 strikeouts over an eightouting stretch with Toledo May 22-June 12. Recalled from Toledo by the Tigers on June 6. Made his major league debut on June 8 at Cincinnati. Optioned to Toledo by the Tigers on June 9. Recalled from Toledo by the Tigers on July 3 -- appeared in one game with Detroit before being optioned back to Toledo on July 8. Tossed a season-high three innings on August 21 at Lehigh Valley. Posted a 1.80 ERA (10.0IP/2ER) and nine strikeouts over his final five outings of the season with Toledo August 21-September 3. JHONNY PERALTA Finished second among all American League shortstops with a.988 fielding percentage during the 2012 season. Collected a season-high three hits on April 5 versus Boston -- matched the high with three hits on April 16 at Kansas City, May 18 versus Pittsburgh, June 13 at Chicago s Wrigley Field against the Cubs, June 27 at Texas and July 8 versus Kansas City. Belted the second walk-off home run of his career on May 4 versus the Chicago White Sox, a two-run shot off Matt Thornton in the ninth inning. On the paternity list June Did not commit an error in 75 consecutive games at shortstop June 21-September marked the longest single-season errorless streak at the position by a Tigers player since at least Equaled a career high with two home runs on July 29 at Toronto -- drove in a season-best four runs that day. Batted.265 (72x272) in 78 games at home...hit.212 (55x259) in 72 games on the road. Hit.260 (70x269) in 77 games prior to the all-star break...batted.218 (57x262) in 73 games following the all-star break. HERNAN PEREZ Spent the majority of the season with Single A Lakeland, batting.261 with 11 doubles, four triples, five home runs, 44 RBI and 27 stolen bases. Fifth in the Florida State League with 27 stolen bases. Led all Florida State League second basemen with a.979 fielding percentage. Collected a season-high four hits in May 9 versus Palm Beach. Recalled by the Tigers from Lakeland on June 9 -- made his major league debut that day as a pinch-hitter at Cincinnati. Collected his first major league hit on June 10 at Cincinnati, an infield single off Alfredo Simon. Optioned to Lakeland by the Tigers on June 10. Hit.398 (33x83) with five doubles, two home runs and eight RBI over a 24-game stretch July 14-August 5. Batted.307 (43x140) versus lefthanded pitchers...hit.239 (72x301) with righties on the mound. Hit.308 (36x117) with runners in scoring position. Saw action in seven games during the Florida State League playoffs, hitting.296 (8x27) with three doubles, a triple and three RBI. RICK PORCELLO Completed his fourth season with the Tigers, establishing a career high with 107 strikeouts. Won 10 games during the season -- has posted 10-or-more wins in each of his first four major league seasons, all prior to turning 24 years old...according to STATS LLC, he became just the fifth pitcher since 1900 to begin his major league career by posting a doubledigit win total in each of his first four seasons prior to turning 24 years old...chief Bender ( ), Bert Blyleven ( ) and Dwight Gooden ( ) all did so in each of their first five seasons, while Dennis Eckersley ( ) accomplished the feat in each of his first four seasons...prior to Porcello, no Tigers pitcher had posted a double-digit total in more than two consecutive seasons to begin their career prior to turning 24 years old...george Mullin was the only Tigers pitcher to accomplish that feat, doing so in both of his first two seasons ( ). Allowed 216 hits during the season, the highest total in the American League...surrendered hits per nine innings, the highest total among all league pitchers. Tossed eight innings to earn the win on May 1 versus Kansas City -- matched a career high with eight innings pitched...equaled the best with eight innings pitched in a win on July 21 versus the Chicago White Sox. Made the 100th start of his major league career on June 2 versus the New York Yankees -- became the 55th pitcher in Tigers history to start at least 100 games. Did not surrender a home run in nine consecutive starts June 13- August 1, a stretch of 54.0 innings pitched. Did not allow a run or issue a walk as he tossed seven innings to earn the win on June 30 at Tampa Bay -- marked the first time in his career he has tossed at least seven innings without allowing both a run and walk. Selected the Tigers Pitcher of the Month for June -- finished 3-1 with a 3.00 ERA (36.0IP/12ER) in six starts during the month. Suffered the loss in six straight starts August 12-September the six-game losing streak matched a career long. Lefthanded hitters batted.325 (123x378) against him...righties hit.294 (103x350) with Porcello on the mound. LUKE PUTKONEN Spent the majority of the season with Triple A Toledo, posting a 3-3 record and 4.92 ERA in 24 outings (two starts) -- saw action in four separate stints with the Tigers. Compiled a 1-0 record, 1.38 ERA (13.0IP/2ER) and 10 strikeouts in six outings with Toledo during April. Had his contract purchased by the Tigers from Toledo on April made his major league debut on April 29 at New York s Yankee Stadium. Optioned to Toledo by the Tigers on May 24. Recalled from Toledo by the Tigers on June did not appear in a game with Detroit before being optioned to Toledo on June 20. Fanned a season-high six batters on July 21 versus Indianapolis. Did not allow a run in three straight outings with the Mud Hens August 5-25, fanning eight batters in 11.1 scoreless innings. Recalled from Toledo by the Tigers on August made one appearance with Detroit before being optioned back to Toledo on August 24. Recalled from Toledo by the Tigers on September 4 -- appeared in five games during September and October, tossing 6.1 scoreless innings. Registered his first major league save on October 3 at Kansas City. RYAN RABURN Struggled as he spent the majority of the season with the Tigers, hitting.171 with 14 doubles, a home run and 12 RBI in 66 games. Collected a season-high four RBI on May 15 at Chicago s U.S. Cellular Field against the White Sox. On the bereavement list May Optioned to Triple A Toledo by the Tigers on May hit.194 (6x31) with a home run and three RBI in eight games with Toledo before being recalled by the Tigers on June 14. Batted.323 (10x31) with four doubles and three RBI over an 11- game stretch June 14-July 1. Sidelined August 1-September 1 with a right thumb sprain. Assigned to Toledo on an injury rehabilitation on August hit.310 (9x29) with two doubles, three home runs and nine RBI in seven games with the Mud Hens. Landed on the disabled list for the remainder of the season on September 11 with a right quadriceps strain. ANIBAL SANCHEZ Opened the season with the Miami Marlins -- compiled a 5-7 record, 3.94 ERA (121.0IP/53ER) and 110 strikeouts in 19 starts. Registered a quality start in each of his first eight starts of the season April 9-May posted a 2-2 record, 2.32 ERA (54.1IP/14ER) and 55 strikeouts during the eight-start stretch. Established a career high with 14 strikeouts on April 28 versus Arizona -- marked the third time in his career he has reached a double-digit strikeout total in a start. Finished 1-0 with a 2.73 ERA (26.1IP/8ER) and 33 strikeouts in four starts during April -- fourth in the National League with 33 strikeouts during the month. Posted a 2-3 record, 2.45 ERA (40.1IP/11ER) and 34 strikeouts in six starts during May. Acquired by the Tigers in a five-player deal (both clubs swapped a compensation draft choice as well) with the Marlins on July 23. Registered a quality start in five consecutive starts August 22- September finished 2-2 with a 1.89 ERA (33.1IP/7ER) during that stretch. Tossed a three-hit shutout on September 25 versus Kansas City -- marked the fifth shutout of his major league career...fanned 10 batters in the outing, the fourth time during his career he has reached a double-digit strikeout total in a start. Finished 2-2 with a 2.43 ERA (40.2IP/11ER) and 37 strikeouts in six starts during September -- tied for fifth in the American League with 37 strikeouts during the month. Posted a 4-6 record and 4.12 ERA (107.0IP/49ER) in 17 starts prior to the all-star break...compiled a 5-7 record and 3.55 ERA (88.2IP/35ER) in 14 starts following the all-star break. Limited lefthanded hitters to a.243 batting average (98x404)... righties batted.291 (102x351) against him. RAMON SANTIAGO Completed his ninth season with the Tigers in 2012, seeing action at second base, third base and shortstop. Batted.257 (18x70) with two doubles, two home runs and 11 RBI in 22 games during June. Hit.228 (39x171) versus righthanded pitchers...batted.140 (8x57) with lefties on the mound. Batted.224 (26x116) in 50 games at home...hit.188 (21x112) in 43 games on the road. Hit.230 (40x174) in 68 games prior to the all-star break...batted.130 (7x54) in 25 games following the all-star break. MAX SCHERZER Completed his third season with the Tigers -- established career highs with 16 wins and 231 strikeouts. Led the American League with 11.1 strikeouts per nine innings, while he finished second with 231 strikeouts and tied for sixth with 16 wins. Fanned 231 batters during the season -- marked the first time during his career he has fanned 200-or-more batters in a season. Struck out nine-or-more batters in 13 of his starts during the season -- topped all major league pitchers with 13 such outings...his 13 such games marked the most by a Tigers pitcher since Mickey Lolich posted 15 games with nine-or-more strikeouts in Fanned 11 batters on April 13 at Chicago s U.S. Cellular Field against the White Sox -- posted a double-digit strikeout total in three more starts during the season: May 20 versus Pittsburgh (15 strikeouts), June 17 versus Colorado (12 strikeouts) and August 15 at Minnesota (10 strikeouts). Allowed a career-high seven walks on April 29 at New York s Yankee Stadium -- did not issue a walk in his next start on May 5 versus the Chicago White Sox to become the first Tigers pitcher to not allow a walk in the outing immediately following issuing seven-or-more walks since Milt Wilcox did so in Wilcox issued seven walks on July 4 at Chicago before not walking a batter in his next start on July 14 at Minnesota. Established a career high with 15 strikeouts on May 20 versus Pittsburgh -- all 15 of his strikeouts came on swinging strikes... according to the Elias Sports Bureau, he was the first major league pitcher with 15 swinging strikeouts since Minnesota s Johan Santana posted 15 such strikeouts on August 19, 2007 against the Rangers. Finished 4-0 with a 4.04 ERA (35.2IP/16ER) and 51 strikeouts in six