Framber Valdez (1-2, 3.42) was slated for his turn in the rotation. The Astros haven’t fared well in his starts, losing his last four after his season opening gem against the Angels. In spite of a better-than-league WHIP of 1.215 and an opposing batting average of .194, Valdez struggles with the free pass, walking 4.8 per nine innings, worst amongst Astros starters.
Valdez faces lefty Eduardo Rodriguez (0-2, 5.33), who doesn’t walk as many, but allows more hits for a 1.303 WHIP. For more on the Tigers, check out our Q&A with Bless You Boys.