The Tigers aren’t what they once were, but this still feels like a big early-season series for the Tribe.
Having already swept the Tigers in Detroit last month, the Indians could make a statement by winning another series against the second-place Tigers.
Justin Verlander takes the mound for the Tigers, which is actually welcomed sight for the Tribe hitters. Over the past two seasons, the Tigers are 0-4 in Verlander’s starts against the Indians.
Carlos Santana returns to the leadoff spot, after being dropped in the lineup during the interleague series in Philly.