Archived Material

Click on past months to check out all of the Mitten State Sports Report's archived material!
Email: mittenstatesportsreport@rocketmail.com

Monday, April 30, 2012

Another Weekend In A Nutshell

   











    The weekend got off to a rough start for sports fans in Michigan when Tigers outfielder Delmon Young was arrested on a hate-crime harassment charge in New York City early Friday morning.  The Tigers also released Brandon Inge, (signed with Oakland) while the Lions made some questionable picks after the first round of the NFL draft.  Here is some news that you may be unaware of along with information about some upcoming events in our area.


     



                                                                      
                                                                     


                                                         MMA and Pro Wrestling News



-  MMA returns to Detroit this Saturday May 5th when Impact Fight League 48 Turf Wars V invades
   The Fillmore.  Fifteen fights including female fighters are scheduled and the action starts at 7:00.   
   TheFillmore is located at 2115 Woodward Ave. in Detroit.  For ticket info go to ticketmaster.com

-  MMA returns to Lansing on Saturday May 5th when Total Warrior Combat 10 arrives at the Best
   Western Plus Lansing Hotel.  Fights start at 6:00 and tickets are $25 at the door.  The Best Western
   Plus Lansing Hotel is located at 6820 South Cedar Street in Lansing. For ticket info check out
   http://www.twczone.com/

-  Clash Wrestling's Fight Against Cancer 5 was a huge success at Taylortown in Taylor last Saturday.
   (April 28th)  This week I'll be unveiling a new exclusive photo album from the event so enjoy. 

                           






My Mom won't let me watch the fights. She said I get too excited.
                                      






                                                                   Baseball News

-  The Tigers released Brandon Inge.  He signed with the Oakland Athletics on Sunday.

-  Tigers outfielder Delmon Young was arrested on a hate-crime harrasment charge on Friday in New
    York.  On Saturday,the Tigers placed Young on the restricted list.

-  Miquel Cabrera drove in his 1,000th career RBI on Friday night against the Yankees.

-  The Tigers called up 1B Brad Eldred from Triple A Toledo. (after releasing Inge)

-  The Tigers sent RHP Thad Weber down to Toledo, called up RHP Luke Putkonen. (from Toledo)

-  Doug Fister is scheduled to make a rehab start this week for Triple A Toledo.

-  Drew Smyly earned his first MLB win on Saturday for the Tigers against the Yankees.

-  The Tigers are 11-11 on the season after loosing 2 out of 3 to the Yankees this past weekend.

-  Minor League Baseball- The Lansing Lugnuts (18-6) lead the Midwestern League Eastern Division
    the Great Lakes Loons are 12-12, and the West Michigan Whitecaps are 11-11.







                                                                Football News

-  Here is a list of this weekends Lions draft selections.  (2 picks in the 5th round)

1 OT  Riley Reiff  Iowa
2 WR Ryan Broyles  Oklahoma
3 CB  Dwight Bentley  Louisiana-Lafayette
4 LB  Ronnell Lewis  Oklahoma  (also played DE)
5 LB  Tahir Whitehead  Temple
5 CB  Chris Greenwood  Albion
6 CB  Jonte Green  New Mexico State
7 LB  Travis Lewis  Oklahoma

-  Lions signed undrafted rookie QB Kellen Moore from Boise St.







                                                                 Hockey News

-  Danny Cleary (Red Wings) will undergo knee surgery this week.

-  The Plymouth Whalers 2011-2012 captain Beau Schmitz signed a 3 year entry level contract with
    the Carolina Hurricanes.

-  The London Knights will represent the Western Conference in the OHL Championship.  The Knights feature two players from our local area including center Austin Watson from Ann Arbor, and Right Winger Jared Knight, from Battle Creek.








Leave a comment!  Email the Mitten State Sports Report at mittenstatesportsreport@rocketmail.com


                                                         

                           

Saturday, April 28, 2012

Red Wings Game Photo Album


 


The Pertile family recently went to the Detroit Red Wings game.  Here are some photos!


                         

The Red Wings battled the Los Angeles Kings!
 
                                    

Faceoff!


                          

A birds eye view of the action!
  

                                            

Lets make a line change!
  

                             

Jack (left) and Tony (right) Pertile stand high above the Joe!



Having a suite time at the game!
                                                

                          

Todd Bertuzzi scored the game winning goal during the shootout!
               








For more information about the Detroit Red Wings click on  redwings.nhl.com



For NHL stats, and standings click on  www.nhl.com



Leave a comment!  Email the Mitten State Sports Report at mittenstatesportsreport@rocketmail.com
        

Friday, April 27, 2012

Riley Reiff: The Latest Lion!






     Detroit Lions General Manager Martin Mahew pulled the trigger on an Offensive Lineman in the 1st round of last nights 2012 NFL (National Football League) Draft.  There is already much speculation from the media, and fans that Riley Reiff (Offensive Tackle) will replace Jeff Backus, but it is the belief of this writer that the two will coexist for a couple of seasons until Backus eventually retires.  It may in fact be Gosder Cherilous who could be the odd man out, but keep in mind that Reiff played Guard, and Tackle during his career at Iowa.  Here are some fast facts about the Detroit Lions newest acquisition.
                        



                                                                                                                                                                           

                                                        Riley Reiff- Fast Facts





-   23rd pick of the first round of the 2012 NFL draft selected by the Detroit Lions
-   played three seasons at Iowa after being redshirted his first season
-   offensive tackle is his natural position but has played Offensive Guard
-   grew up in Parkston, South Dakota (population 1,508)
-   former 3 time High School State Championship Wrestler
-   will wear number 71 with the Lions
-   in 2009 was named 3rd team Freshman All American by College Football News
-   in 2010 was named 2nd team All- Big Ten
-   in 2011 was named 1st team All- Big Ten
-   in 2011 was named College Football All American by Pro Football Weekly
-   was arrested for public intoxication during his freshman year at Iowa
-   did not attend the NFL draft at the Radio City Music Hall in New York City
-   the Lions own Calvin Johnson announced the pick last night instead of Roger Goodell
                                       
                         


   



For more information about the Detroit Lions click on  www.detroitlions.com



For NFL stats, and standings click on  www.nfl.com                  

                                  
 Leave a comment!  Email the Mitten State Sports Report at mittenstatesportsreport@rocketmail.com


Thursday, April 26, 2012

The "Madden Cover Curse"

  



Was Dante Culpepper a victim of the Madden Cover Curse?








    Calvin Johnson was selected yesterday over Cam Newton to become the winner of the 2013 Madden Cover Tournament.  The tournament featured 64 of the top NFL players.  Millions of fans voted, proving that Johnson's accomplishments on the field have been recognized by NFL fans throughout the Country.  There is a downside for Johnson if you believe in the "Madden Cover Curse".  Here is a bit of history regarding the curse of the cover.
                                               
                                                  






                                                              Madden Cover Curse





1999  Garrison Hearst   49'ers   RB suffered a broken ankle in the playoffs and missed next 2 seasons
2000  Dorsy Levens      Packers RB was released in 2001
2001  Eddie George      Titans    RB averaged 3.4 yds. per carry for the rest of his career
2002  Daunte Culpepper Vikings QB suffered a knee injury and missed last 5 games of the season
2003  Marshall Faulk      Rams    RB failed to reach 1,000 yards rushing for a season again
2004  Michael Vick        Falcons QB broke leg and missed 11 games, jail time for dog fighting
2005  Ray Lewis            Ravens  LB missed last half of season due to injury
2006  Donovan McNabb Eagles QB suffered torn ACL along with various injuries
2007 Shaun Alexander SeahawksRB retired 2 seasons later after suffering various injuries
2008 Vince Young        Titans     QB lost starting job, is now a journeyman backup
2009  Brett Farve          Packers  QB lead the league in interceptions with 22
2010  Troy Polamalu    Steelers  S   sprained MCL and only played in 5 games
2011  Drew Brees        Saints    QB success but team faces bounty hunting and wire tapping scandals
2012  Peyton Hillis      Browns     RB played 10 games, rushed for 587 yds while suffering injuries
2013  Calvin Johnson   Lions     WR ??????????????????????????????????????????????????????







What about Vince Young? Curse or not?






Leave a comment!  Email the Mitten State Sports Report at mittenstatesportsreport@rocketmail.com                                      

Wednesday, April 25, 2012

NFL Draft: Local Preview

    





    The 1st round of the NFL (National Football League) Draft begins tomorrow night at 8:00 p.m. (eastern time), and can be seen live on ESPN.  There are several prospects from our local area that will wait eagerly, and hope to hear there name called by NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell.   I've compiled a list of local prospects, along with a projection of the round in which I believe that these players may be selected.









                                                         Local NFL Draft Projections:








                                                           2nd Round Projections



Quarterback                   Kirk Cousins                             Michigan State
Defensive Tackle           Mike Martin                               Michigan






                                                           3rd Round Projections



Defensive End               Ryan Vanbergen                       Michigan
Defensive Tackle          Jerel Worthy                              Michigan State






                                                           4th Round Projections



Outside Linebacker       Brandon Herron                          Michigan
Offensive Guard             Joel Foreman                             Michigan State






                                                            5th Round Projections



Wide Reciever              Junior Hemingway                      Michigan
Wide Reciever              B. J. Cunningham                        Michigan State
Safety                            Latarrius Thomas                        Eastern Michigan
Center                           David Molk                                  Michigan
Center                           Rocky Weaver                             Central Michigan

  

     

                                              
                                                             6th Round Projections



Running Back               Edwin Baker                                Michigan State
Offensive Guard          Anthony Parker                             Western Michigan






                                                             7th Round Projections



Offensive Guard          Bridger Buche                              Eastern Michigan
Tight End                     Kevin Koger                                 Michigan
Wide Reciever            Keith Nichol                                 Michigan State
Offensive Tackle         Joe Long                                      Wayne State

                 


    
     
                                                    Projected Invites to NFL Camps
           (the following players did not make my big board but may recieve NFL tryout invitations)





Wide Reciever            Martavious Odoms                         Michigan
Running Back              Michael Shaw                                Michigan
Safety                          Troy Woolfolk                                 Michigan
Wide Reciever            Keshawn Martin                            Michigan State
Tight End                     Garret Celek                                  Michigan State
Safety                          Trent Robinson                               Michigan State
Tight End                     Brian Linthicum                             Michigan State
Fullback                      Todd Anderson                              Michigan State
Wide Reciever            Brad Sonntag                                Michigan State
Punter                          Ben Armer                                     Western Michigan
Safety                          Kyke Fitzpatrick                             Ferris State
Defensive End             Brandon Williams                         Saginaw Valley State
Defensive End             Danny Richard                              Grand Valley State
Cornerback                  Corey Gray                                   Northwood
Wide Reciever            Q Mathis                                       Northwood
Offensive Guard          Reid Meador                                Hillsdale
Safety                          Nick Hixon                                   Hillsdale  








For NFL stats, and standings click on  www.nfl.com



Leave a comment!  Email the Mitten State Sports Report at mittenstatesportsreport@rocketmail.com



Tuesday, April 24, 2012

PWAS "Battle For Autism"





Club Polo, in Allen Park hosted the PWAS (Pro Wrestling All Stars) of Detroit.

 



"Superstar" Bill Martel wrestled in his final PWAS matchup.




        
The PWAS welcomes international competitors!




                      
Gregory Iron stands alone in the ring after a victory!
                  
             
         





For information about the PWAS of Detroit click on  https://www.facebook.com/PWASDETROIT



For more information about Club Polo click on  clubpoloallenpark.blogspot.com



Leave a comment!  Email the Mitten State Sports Report at mittenstatesportsreport@rocketmail.com                                                                                                              

Monday, April 23, 2012

Weekend In A Nutshell

   












    The weekend got off to a sour note for sports fans in Michigan when the Detroit Red Wings were eliminated from the 1st round of the NHL (National Hockey League) Playoffs on Friday night (in five games) courtesy of the Nashville Predators.  The Detroit Tigers dropped three of four games at home to the Texas Rangers, while a non-playoff bound Pistons team that has been hard to watch this season earned themselves a 76-73 victory last night over the Toronto Raptors.  Here is some information regarding a few local area events coming next weekend, along with news that the casual sports fan may be unaware of.








                                                       MMA and Pro Wrestling News







-  Clash Wrestling returns to Taylortown in Taylor on Saturday (April 28'th) for their Fight Against Cancer 5 which features top local wrestlers including Cameron Sky, Tommy Treznik, Mena Libra, and the Clash Heavywight Champion Petey Williams.  Bell time is at 8:oo and tickets are $12.  Taylortown is located at 22525 Ecorse road in Taylor.


-  MMA returns to the Palace of Auburn Hills on Saturday (April 28th) as Impact Fight League presents IFL 47 which features 15 title fights beginning at 7:00.  The Palace is located at 6 Championships Drive in Auburn Hills.


-  MMA comes to Raks Sports Bar in Michigan Center (in Jackson County) on Saturday (April 28th) presenting the Prison City Fight League which features some of the top amateur fighters from our region.  Tickets start at $25 and the action starts at 7:00. (doors open at 6:00)  Raks Sports Bar is located at 101 N. Falahee Road in Michigan Center.


-  MMA comes to Grayling on Saturday (April 28th) as New World Karate presents Rumble At The Ramada/Night of Champions. Fight time is 7:00, general admission is $25 and the show is open to all ages.  The action takes place at the Ramada Grayling Conference Center located at 2650  I75 Business Loop in Grayling.


-  MMA comes to Greenville on Saturday (April 28th) as Ground and Pound Promotions presents Unfinished Business II.  General admission is $20 and fights begin at 6:30. (doors open at 6:00) check out the action at 11466 W Carson City Road in Greenville or click on to http://www.groundandpoundusa.com/ for more info.
                                                                
                                                 






                                                                  Hockey News







- The Saginaw Spirit aren't even playing games right now but several members of the 2011-2012 team are still making news.  Coach Greg Gilbert was named OHL (Ontario Hockey League) Coach of the Year and received the Matt Leyden trophy.  Gilbert took over the roll of head coach after the Spirit got off to a slow start.


-  Saginaw Spirit left winger Brandon Saad has already signed with the Chicago Blackhawks and is part of their current playoff roster.


- Saginaw Spirit left winger John Shalla has signed a three year entry level contract with the Nashville Predators and has reported to the AHL's Milwawkee Admirals to join their postseason roster.


-  No AHL (American Hockey League) Postseason for the Grand Rapids Griffins (Red Wings affiliate) as they finished their season in 13th place in the Western Conference with 77 points. The Griffins were 9 points behind the Houston Aeros which entered the Western Conference playoffs as the eighth seed. The Griffins were 33-32 with 7 overtime losses along with 4 shoot out losses this season.








                                                                  Baseball News







-  The Detroit Tigers sent relief pitcher Daniel Schlereth down to Toledo and brought up relief pitcher Thad Weber who debuted for the Tigers last night while earning his first loss in the process.


-  The Lansing Lugnuts are atop the Midwest League Eastern Division with a 13-4 record.  The Great Lakes Loons are 9-8, while the West Michigan Whitecaps are 8-9.

-  Former Tiger catcher Ivan (Pudge) Rodriquez will throw out the first pitch tonight for the Texas Rangers when they host the Ney York Yankees.


   






 Mitten State Sports Report lets me know where I can see all the fights! 
   







Leave a comment!  Email the Mitten State Sports Report at mittenstatesportsreport@rocketmail.com                          

Saturday, April 21, 2012

Mitten State Sports Report Wants You!







   







     The Mitten State Sports Report is constantly looking for ways to grow, and improve.  If you own, or operate a business in our local area, why not advertise on the Mitten State Sports Report?  Spread your message to new potential customers with the help of the Mitten State Sports Report!  This website is constantly growing by focusing on local sports, and local teams.
     Many websites devote all of their attention to the major market teams.  The Mitten State Sports Report takes you deep inside the world of sports, and entertainment.  If you would like to advertise with, or sponsor the Mitten State Sports Report send your emails directly to mittenstatesportsreport@rocketmail.com  








Leave a comment!  Email the Mitten State Sports Report at mittenstatesportsreport@rocketmail.com



                     

Friday, April 20, 2012

Heard vs. Sol Game 7 Fight

 


There was a fight in last night's Whalers game between Mitchell Heard, and Cody Sol.
 




The fight took place near the end of the game.  Kitchener scored an empty net goal, and the fight began.
   




The Whalers lost the game 6-3.  The Whalers were eliminated from the OHL Playoffs.










For more information about the Plymouth Whalers click on  plymouthwhalers.com



For OHL stats, and standings click on  http://www.ontariohockeyleague.com



For more information about Compuware Arena click on  http://www.compuwarearena.com  



Leave a comment!  Email the Mitten State Sports Report at mittenstatesportsreport@rocketmail.com                                

Thursday, April 19, 2012

Whalers vs. Rangers Game 7





 Rangers Goalie John Gibson played great in net for Kitchener!





The Kitchener Rangers were well represented with fans!





The Kitchener Rangers defeated the Plymouth Whalers 6-3.




The Plymouth Whalers will be back again next season!





Click on the links below for more information about this stuff!








For more information about the Plymouth Whalers click on  plymouthwhalers.com



For information about the Ontario Hockey League click on  http://www.ontariohockeyleague.com



For more information about Compuware Arena click on  http://www.compuwarearena.com



Leave a comment!  Email the Mitten State Sports Report at mittenstatesportsreport@rocketmail.com




                       
                                                                                          

Wednesday, April 18, 2012

Whalers Eliminated From Playoffs!


  


The Plymouth Whalers have been eliminated from the OHL (Ontario Hockey League) Playoffs!
  







                                                       
    The Plymouth Whalers were eliminated from the OHL (Ontario Hockey League) Playoffs last night courtesy of the Kitchener Rangers in game 7 of the Western Conference semifinals.  The game was competitive through two periods, but the Rangers took control of the game in the 3rd period, and cruised to a 6-3 win.  Boston Bruins prospect Tyler Randell was the difference maker for the Rangers contributing four goals for Kitchener in the winning effort.  It was Randell's first game back since serving a 10 game suspension.  Rangers Goalie, and Anaheim Ducks prospect John Gibson also played a key roll in the Rangers victory making one big save after another.  The Rangers added an empty net goal near the end of the game, and a fight ensued between Whalers Center Mitchell Heard, and Rangers Defenseman (Winnipeg Jets prospect) Cody Sol.  The Rangers were well represented with fans which showed up in great numbers to cheer on their Kitchener squad in the deciding game of the series.  Kitchener will enter the Western Conference finals on the road against the London Knights which knocked out the Saginaw Spirit in six games on Saturday. 
    In the Eastern Conference, the Ottawa 67's defeated the Barrie Colts (4-3) last night in game 7 of the Eastern Conference semifinals, and will now begin game 1 of the Conference Finals on the road against the Niagara Ice Dogs.  Niagara is the top overall seed in the Eastern Conference.
     The Whalers dropped to 5-6 all time in their Playoff game 7 history.  Last season, the Whalers defeated the Rangers (4-2) in game 7 of the Western Conference quarterfinals which took place in Kitchener.  In 2003, the Whalers lost game seven of the Western Conference finals (3-1) to the Kitchener Rangers which also took place in Kitchener.









For more information about the Plymouth Whalers click on  plymouthwhalers.com



For OHL stats, and standings click on http://www.ontariohockeyleague.com



For more information about Compuware Arena click on  http://www.compuwarearena.com



Leave a comment!  Email  the Mitten State Sports Report at mittenstatesportsreport@rocketmail.com



                                                                                                 

                                                                                                                      

Tuesday, April 17, 2012

Pro Wrestling In Allen Park!





Club Polo hosted the PWAS (Pro Wrestling All Stars) of Detroit. 









     Last Sunday, Club Polo (in Allen Park) hosted the PWAS (Pro Wrestling All Stars) of Detroit.
The PWAS of Detroit teamed up with "Haileys Heroes" to raise money for "Autism Speaks" which is an organization that raises awareness, and sponsors autism research, along with conducting outreach activities aimed at families who are dealing with autism.  The event featured many of the top local wrestlers like "Richie Boy" Breyer Wellington, Lou Crank, Roderick Street, "FIA" Frank Isaac Anderson, "The Suicycos" Slasher and Overkill, and of course the All Star Champion The Great Akuma.  The show was family friendly, and Club Polo was the perfect venue for bringing Pro Wrestling back to the Downriver area.
     No titles changed hands on Sunday, but "Superstar" Bill Martel was eliminated from PWAS as a result of loosing a stipulation match.  Also "FIA" Frank Isaac Anderson was disqualified when he laid out "The Prodigy" Darrell Jackson with his metal briefcase.  On the way to the locker room "FIA" leveled a fan with the briefcase, and the fan eventually chased "FIA" into the locker room.  Other noteworthy matches included a tag team victory for "Hot Stuff" Steve Rivera, and Lou Crank over "Richie Boy" Breyer Wellington, and his partner The Great Akuma.  Roderick Street was also defeated by "The Handicap Hero" Gregory Iron in singles competition.
     Click on the links below for more information about the PWAS of Detroit, or Club Polo.  Scroll down to check out exclusive photos of Pro Wrestling action!  You can always leave a comment, and you can email the Mitten State Sports Report directly at mittenstatesportsreport@rocketmail.com








For information about the PWAS of Detroit click on  https://www.facebook.com/PWASDETROIT



For information about Club Polo click on  clubpoloallenpark.blogspot.com



Leave a comment!  Email the Mitten State Sports Report at mittenstatesportsreport@rocketmail.com




Monday, April 16, 2012

Spirit Eliminated From Playoffs!





The Saginaw Spirit have been eliminated from the Ontario Hockey League Playoffs!








    The 2011-2012 campaign came to end for the Saginaw Spirit on Saturday.  The London Knights were the top overall seed in the Western Conference, and they eliminated Saginaw from the OHL (Ontario Hockey League) Playoffs. The Spirit lead the series 2 games to 1, but Saginaw lost games 4 through 6.
    The Spirit may have entered the Postseason with a bit of a controversy in net.  Clint Windsor, and Jake Paterson split the goaltending duties during the regular season, but Jake Paterson became the "go to guy" once the OHL Playoffs began.
     The 2011-2012 Spirit featured four players from our local area including defenseman Brad Walch who resides in Saginaw.  Six NHL (National Hockey League) clubs have already drafted seven Saginaw players including Center Vincent Trocheck (Florida Panthers) who lead the Spirit in points during the regular season with 85. Spirit Left Wingers John Shalla, (Nashville Predators) and Brandon Saad (Chicago Blackhawks) both contributed 76 points during the regular season, and both players are expected to achieve success at the next level.
     The Spirit season got off to a rough start, and as a result Head Coach Todd Watson was fired.  Greg Gilbert took over the roll, and really got the team rolling.  The future looks bright for the Saginaw Spirit as Greg Gilbert has installed a winning attitude to go along with much support from the Tri-Cities.
     The London Knights will face the winner of a game 7 Conference semifinals matchup between Kitchener and Plymouth.  In the Eastern Conference, the Niagara Ice Dogs have already advanced to the Conference finals, and await the winner of a game 7 Conference semifinals matchup between the Ottawa 67's and the Barrie Colts.









Click on the link below for more information about the Saginaw Spirit!









For more information about the Saginaw Spirit click on  http://www.saginawspirit.com/



For OHL stats, and standings click on  http://www.ontariohockeyleague.com



Leave a comment!  Email the Mitten State Sports Report at mittenstatesportsreport@rocketmail.com

Saturday, April 14, 2012

Hockeytown May Turn Predators Into Prey!

   













    The Red Wings were successful on the road last night in Nashville, and have evened up their first round playoff series 1-1 against the Predators.  The Red Wings now look to put a stranglehold on the series as they return home for the next two games.  Earlier this season, the Red Wings won 23 straight games at Joe Louis Arena.
    In game 1 of the series, Todd Bertuzzi wasted little time avenging the attack of Henrik Zetterberg (by Shea Weber).  Bertuzzi's willingness to scrap with Weber set the tone early, and the Red Wings scored two first period goals, which contributed to a 3-2 victory!  The Red Wings will need to play with that same intensity for the rest of the Postseason!  Weber's dirty play, in addition to the fact that there was no suspension issued, has fueled bitter feelings towards the Predators, and may continue to motivate Detroit throughout the rest of the series.  The Red Wings will miss Darren Helm for the rest of the Playoffs because of an injury suffered back in game one of the series.







For more information about the Detroit Red Wings click on  redwings.nhl.com 



For NHL stats, and standings click on  www.nhl.com 



Leave a comment!  Email the Mitten State Sports Report at mittenstatesportsreport@rocketmail.com
     




Friday, April 13, 2012

Don't Take the Tigers for Granted!

  





    Yes, I know that the Tigers lost today (5-2) at Chicago in the White Sox home opener, and I'm also aware that today is Friday the 13th, (a day associated with hysteria and overreaction) but do not worry my fellow Tiger fans, because when its all said and done, this season is already a success, and will continue to be even if the Tigers don't win the World Series.  On paper, the Tigers have the best team in baseball, including a powerful lineup one through nine, and a pitching staff in their prime (with playoff experience) lead by their ace Justin Verlander.  But the game is not played on paper, and the Tigers will have to compete all season long battling injuries, players adjusting to new or different positions, the dog days of summer, the lack of speed on the bases (other than Austin Jackson) and the overall fatigue involved with a brutal 162 game regular season schedule.  With all of that being said, don't take the 2012 Detroit Tigers for granted.
     If you take a moment to recall the 90's, and even the early half of this decade, then you will remember season after season of disappointment, subpar lineups, and a hopeless attitude that surrounded an uncompetitive franchise.  Memories of Juan Gonzalez, and the years when Mike Henneman, Justin Thompson, and Brian Moehler were each considered aces of the staff are enough to be thankful for the last few years of Tiger baseball.  Owner Mike Illitch realizes that he's not getting any younger, and he wants to win.  He has allowed General Manager Dave Dembrowski to make several key signings over the past few seasons. Dembrowski has spent money on talent, and kept our good existing players in Detroit.
     If your a casual baseball fan who comes to the park for the sun, or a die hard fan that follows the team regularly, don't miss out on the opportunity to really watch this team.  In an era where free agency, and trades (especially if your team is out of contention by the trade deadline) can drastically change the mold of a franchise from season to season, it is important that we support this team, and don't take the 2012 Tigers for granted.








Leave a comment!  Email the Mitten State Sports Report at mittenstatesportsreport@rocketmail.com



For more information about the Detroit Tigers click on  detroit.tigers.mlb.com



For Major League Baseball  stats, and standings click on  mlb.mlb.com

Thursday, April 12, 2012

Lugnuts Undefeated!

  



   

     The Lansing Lugnuts are off to their best start in franchise history after finishing up a three game sweep over the Dayton Dragons to improve their record to 6-0.  Lansing is the Class "A" affiliate of the Toronto Blue Jays, and the Lugnuts are currently sitting on top of the Eastern Division.
    Lansing  opens a four game series on the road tonight against the West Michigan White Caps.  The Lugnuts will return home on Monday when they will host South Bend for three games.  The Lugnuts began the season by winning three straight home games against the Great Lakes Loons.  During the preseason, the Lugnuts defeated the Michigan State Spartans 7-0 in the "Crosstown Showdown".
    The Lansing Lugnuts play at beautiful Cooley Law School Stadium, and the franchise offers many fun promotions throughout the season such as ladies nights, (every Wednesday home game) post game concerts, (every Thursday home game) and post game firework shows starting in May.  Click on the link below for more information about the Lansing Lugnuts!








For more info on the Lansing Lugnuts click on  http://www.lansinglugnuts.com/



For more info about Minor League Baseball click on  www.milb.com



Leave a comment!  Email the Mitten State Sports Report at mittenstatesportsreport@rocketmail.com




Wednesday, April 11, 2012

Whalers First Round Photo Album





Whalers Matt Mistele left Tyler Bertuzzi (nephew of Todd Bertuzzi) battered and bruised!
  



      
Up close at Compuware Arena!




                                            
The Whalers on the penalty kill!
 

                                               

                                          
Dylan MacDonald gets ready to recieve the pass!
  



                             
Whalers putting the pressure on the Storm!
                                      




A race to the puck!
    



                                                          
Playoff Hockey!
                                                            



Click on the links below for more information about this stuff!










For more information about the Plymouth Whalers click on  plymouthwhalers.com



For more information about Compuware Arena click on  http://www.compuwarearena.com



For information about the Ontario Hockey League click on  http://www.ontariohockeyleague.com



Leave a comment!  Email the Mitten State Sports Report at mittenstatesportsreport@rocketmail.com