Spencer Turnbull is a striking figure on the pitchers mound. His red beard immediately recognizable, creating an easy visual for fans who might not have otherwise been able to pick the rookie pitcher out of a lineup. Turnbull — who impressed everyone in spring training with his domination pitching performances — was a surprise selection to head to the bump on Comerica’s Opening Day, but he didn’t disappoint.
Turnbull struck out 10 Kansas City Royals batters in his six innings to work, the best Opening Day strikeout record, tying the team’s previous all-time record. It was also the most strikeouts by a Tigers rookie since Michael Fulmer’s 2016 season, and that one went pretty well.