Leelanau Sports Guy’s World at sportspig.com

I’m not entirely shocked the Detroit Tigers are clinging to first place in the A.L. Central over the Cleveland Indians with the Chicago White Sox not far behind, but I am shocked at how they have done it. With injuries to some of the starters, a struggling bullpen, cold bats, and Jose Mesa pitching, they have been able to put together a strong case to make it back to the World Series. Sure they just lost 3 out of 4 to the A.L. East leading Boston Red Sox, but the bats just weren’t clicking in Beantown. They did manage to take 2 out of 3 from the A.L. West leader, the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim.

I don’t look for the standings to change much before the All-Star Game.

I still think the Tigers will claim another American League Pennant, but who their opponent is going to be is anyone’s guess. My top 3 picks for the National League rep in the World Series are: New York Mets – the most balanced team in the NL; Atlanta Braves – looking to return to the postseason; and Milwaukee Brewers – are they this year’s Tigers?

The 2007 season isn’t even a third of the way done, but some of the teams above are flexing their muscles. It should be a great summer! Don’t forget if you are looking to catch a game at the ballpark this year, visit Ticket Solutions to secure top-quality tickets for your favorite team!