Detroit's Schedule Significantly Easier Heading Down the Stretch

We always admire Jim Leyland in his ability to lineup our pitching rotation to our advantage. For instance, he recently tweaked our staff schedule in order that Verlander might pitch twice against the White Sox down the stretch. In the midst of his recent struggle, this was especially important as Verlander has been dominate against the White Sox of late. (11-1 in his last 13 starts.)

This is why last night's postponement is an advantage for the White Sox. Not only will the Tigers have to swing through Chicago for an inconvenient one day road trip after time in Cleveland, but they will not have to face Verlander in what is the most important game left on the schedule for both teams.

The upside? The Tigers schedule is easier than that of the White Sox after the game next Monday. The Tigers will have nine games at home and only six on the road, with only three against a team over .500. (The sliding Oakland A's.) The White Sox on the other hand, have 6 games at home and 9 on the road, playing 7 of the fifteen games against team over .500. (Including the surging Angels and playoff hungry Rays.)

All in all it was a successful road trip to Chicago and all things look to be in place for another playoff run in 2012.