Detroit Tigers Christin Stewart opening day hero

Embed from Getty Images Prospects can be tricky. The right ones can propel a team forward or set them back. Yesterday, in the Opening Day of the 2019 MLB season. The rebuilding Detroit Tigers and rookie Christin Stewart took the stage in Toronto to face the Blue Jays.

“Early on I just kind of let my adrenaline and emotions get the best of me,” Christin Stewart said. “I just needed to calm down in the box. I knew that. Later in the game my at-bats started getting better, I started to do what I wanted to do in the box.

For rookies playing in their first Opening Day, that is easier said than done. Most rookies want to show they belong. So many rookies try to do too much and fall flat. Some regain their composure, while some are sent to the minors to make adjustments. Teams really do not know until they see regular season games.

Stewart was already 0-3 when he arrived at the plate in the 10th inning. “They were kind of messing with him,” manager Ron Gardenhire said. “He’s a kid. But you make a mistake like that one, that one got too much of the plate, and he killed it. We know that’s what he can do.”

 

Toronto Blue Jays right-handed pitcher Daniel Hudson quickly got ahead in the count 0-2, Christin knowing he had to make contact chocked up on his bat.  The relief pitcher then made a fatal mistake, he left the ball out over the plate on a change-up and Stewart connected. Miguel Cabrera, staring his way and mouthing, “Wow.”

 

For the rebuilding Detroit Tigers are in line to lose 90-plus games once again, the Tigers will be a thorn in many teams side this season. It is good news that a player like Stewart who will not hit close to .300 started with a home run. He does project as a 30-35 home run, 80-90 R.B.I. player. Something the Tigers will taken

Michigan State Spartans football believes Cody White could be a go-to player

Embed from Getty Images In 2018’s season to forget. Michigan State’s football team saw their wide receivers  two-deep on the depth chart go down with injuries one after another. There was a small silver lining for the Spartans.

The Spartans young receivers have bounced back from the injury problems that plagued them a season ago. Felton Davis II was the teams go-to guy last season. That is until the injury bug hit him as well. Injuries was the theme for the 2018 Spartans football team. It is hard to think of a college football team that  has seen so many injuries hit one positional group so hard in one season.

This spring the Michigan State football team has seen Cody White step up. “I think he can easily be our No. 1 guy,” quarterback Brian Lewerke speaking about Cody White. So far during spring practice White is not shying away from becoming the dependable go-to guy for his teammates.

It is no secret the Michigan State Spartans are  looking to turn the page after a disastrous 2018 season on the offensive side of the ball. New offensive coordinator Brad Salem, change breathing in some new life to the offense. As well as some new wrinkles in the offensive playbook.

As for the wide receivers, the Spartans need the group to be healthy and regain the production that will help the team advance the ball and give their defense a longer breather. If the Spartans can stay healthy at the wide out position and end the revolving door, it will go a long way in bringing the football team back into the Big Ten title conversation.

To this point in spring practice the Spartans are looking forward to the season, and leaving last seasons injuries and disappointment  in the rear view mirror.

Michigan Wolverines football defensive coordinator is looking for redemption

Embed from Getty Images The last two football games of the 2018 season were ugly. Michigan Wolverines defense gave up 103 points and 1,035 total yards in blowout losses to Ohio State and Florida. Wolverines defensive coordinator Don Brown called it, “The most disappointing experience I’ve ever been through in my entire life.”

Jim Harbaugh’s fourth year  defensive coordinator, Brown said he does not believe it was schematic issues that lead to the meltdown. Don Brown said “It’s not the concept, I’ve gotta do a bit of a better job.” That is the starting point.

Entering the 2019 season that will be a little more tricky. Replacements are needed for several defensive players from last year’s group. Linebacker Devin Bush, defensive lineman Rashan Gary and cornerback David Long all entered the NFL draft as juniors , while defensive lineman Chase Winovich and safety Tyree Kinnel, have graduated. Leaving a big void that needs filled.

Michigan lost 47%  of the teams total tackles from last season, also 41%  of the teams sacks. Lost in these gaudy numbers is the fact above the numbers the Michigan defense lost the ever important  intangible leadership. From Devin Bush and Chase Winovich. That is a lot to replace.

“It’s always next man up no matter what happens,” said junior safety Josh Metellus. Now Michigan and Don Brown have had all winter to get  ready. Ready for what comes next. New players need to pick up the system quickly this spring. Players need to focus on growing into their roles.

As for Don Brown he fired this off “We’re going to  do some things a little differently.” What exactly that is, is unknown and is likely to remain that way until August 8, when the Wolverines kickoff the 2019 season.

That is Don Brown and the players focus of spring practice. To get players acclimated and up to speed of the defensive system. Michigan can not afford to have another season ending meltdown in 2019.

 

Could Detroit Pistons Svi Mykhailiuk move to point guard

Embed from Getty Images Pistons coach Dwane Casey is toying with the ideal of developing Svi Mykhailiuk into a point guard to maximize his big 6′ 8″ frame. Which would give the player and team an advantage over the rest of the NBA’s point guards.

Casey stated “It gives you length on defense and you can see defenses better.” The prototypical NBA point guard is 6-6, 6-7. The Detroit Pistons pan is to have Mykhailiuk  join the teams offseason developmental program.  Casey is in favor of putting players in position to succeed.

Pistons fans an local Detroit media are asking “If he’s so talented, why isn’t Mykhailiuk in the Pistons rotation, already.” Fair enough. The fair answer is  Svi Mykhailiuk  was not fully acclimated with the Los Angels Lakers, is not prepared to make the switch while the Pistons are in the middle of  trying to get into the playoffs.

It is said that while watching Mykhailiuk go through pregame drills, an Eastern Conference scout told reporters Svi projects to be a dead-eye shooter and a playmaker. That is good news for Detroit.

Pistons front office will get their first prolonged look at Mykhailiuk at point guard during Las Vegas Summer League action in July. One thing is for sure is Mykhailiuk brings toughness.  He does not back down from other players or situations.

“This summer’s going to be a big one for my development,” Mykhailiuk said. “It’s started right now, even if I don’t play. I’m getting in a lot of extra work before games and even on days off. I just got to work on my all-around game.”

The good news for the Detroit Pistons and their fans is Svi Mykhailiuk sounds as though he is embracing the switch to point guard. This could be a good thing for the organization. It could also be a good thing for the player. As he evolves his game some more. He will see more playing time.

 

2019 Detroit Tigers draft options

Embed from Getty Images Thanks in large part to a 98 loss season in 2018 the Detroit tigers will have the fifth overall pick in the first round of this Junes MLB amateur draft. There are three names to keep in mind for fans to know.

One thing to keep in mind is this years Major League Baseball draft is it boasts of a very weak pitching crop. I found only one who would be worth a first round pick. Not in the top ten.

For the rebuilding Tigers who have a surplus of pitching prospects, I believe 2019 is the right time for general manager Al Avila to select a position player with a plus bat.

Riley Greene, Hagerty High School, Oviedo, Florida, Greene has all the tools that are making scouts drool. Left-handed power hitter, at 6′ 2″ with a thick frame Riley projects as a corner outfielder. Greene is disciplined and composed at the plate. The bat explodes through the zone allowing Greene to hit any pitch out of the park. He could be moved to first base at some point.

CJ Abrams, Blessed Trinity High School, Georgia, Abrams may be the second best short stop in this years draft. A plus runner, plus speed, plus glove give him some great starting tools. Scouts believe Abrams will get even better and be a cornerstone short stop for whichever team drafts him for years to come.

Last I do have the lone pitcher who should go in the first round. Graeme Stinson University of Duke, The draw back is Stinson is said to be soft-bodied. He projects close to Detroit Tigers prospect Alex Faedo. In my opinion if the Tigers draft Stinson they will miss a big opportunity to get and impact bat for the middle of the lineup to go with Christian Stewart and Isaac Paredes.

Detroit Lions, Matt Patricia details what he looks for in draft prospects

Embed from Getty Images With the NFL draft three weeks away, Detroit Lions head coach Matt Patrica is not going into detail about what needs his team are looking to fill. Instead, Patrica gave insight as to what he looks for in draft prospects.

Each NFL team places different values for their organization. The Detroit Lions do not go against the grain. Yet, the Detroit Lions head coach was willing to give good information as to what he looks for.

“It may sound cliche, but it’s really not, because we’re going to teach them the other stuff,” Patricia said in a meeting with Detroit area beat writers Tuesday. “We’re gonna teach them scheme, we’re gonna teach them fundamentals, we’re gonna teach them some of those things, so you start basically with, alright, what does his speed look like on film? What does his pad level look like? Can he come downhill or can he get open? Is the fundamental skill set that he needs — quickness in and out of breaks, whether it’s football instincts and how smart he is as a player, does he makes checks and adjustments? Is he a guy that sees the whole field?”

Patricia also stated that toughness and passion in prospects is an absolute must. “I think you always want to find toughness, that’s fundamental, and you want to find that ‘never quit’ attitude,” Patricia said. “The guys that are always going to go compete. But first and foremost, you want to feel the love, you want to feel the passion.”

Needless to say every coach would like athletes with elite physical talents, the Lions coach puts a premium on intelligence, toughness and coach-ability. Giving a good look at what the New England Patriots look for as well.

To review, in a nut shell Matt Patrica likes players who are tough, passionate, intelligent and who have a coach-ability to them. In other words players who are versital.

Jim Harbaugh says 2019 is the best offensive line he has had at Michigan

Embed from Getty Images When Jim Harbaugh took over the Michigan Wolverines coaching job, the offensive line was in shambles. Now entering his fifth season what was once a sore spot is now a  position of strength for the Wolverines.

Michigan ran a running game, ball control offense that saw the team increase its win total to ten last season. This spring there’s a lot to still like about the offensive line,such as players who have been known quantities, as well as those who are emerging from the depth  chart as they improved their game , It seems the unit on the whole has taken their game to the next level.

“Offensive line has been really good,” coach Harbaugh said. “Mike Onwenu is really standing out as is Cesar Ruiz and Ben Bredeson. That’s the real strength for our football team. Both left and right  tackles  Jon Runyan are having real good springs so far and then Andrew Stueber and Jalen Mayfield who are currently battling it out for starting right tackle.

The lines are getting blurry as far as starters, backups and third string. That is very good news for the Wolverines. The means that depth has become a strength. If a player is injured or needs a breather, it truly is next man in. Unlike the past Michigan should not miss a beat offensively.

Michigan and Jim Harbaugh are a long ways from the group he inherited four years ago. Now there is a building buzz and excitement  about the depth that has been built.  “I think this offensive line starting group has got a chance to be the best that we’ve had since we’ve been here,” Harbaugh said.

Harbaugh’s excitement about the offensive line, seems somewhat understated, given, not only the ability of the four returning starters. It goes without saying this is the most  athletic group Michigan has had up front in some time.

Taro Hirose has been excellent for the Detroit Red Wings

Embed from Getty Images After completing the Big Ten schedule at Michigan State, the Detroit Red Wings signed Taro Hirose. Hirose is the first Spartan to sign with the Red Wings since Justin  Abdelkader. Fresh out of college Taro has recorded an assist in each of his first two games.

Taro Hirose has proven the NHL game is not to big or fast for him. Something many prospects need time to adjust to. Hirose’s poise with the puck has stood out during his Detroit showing.

Taro Hirose’s scouting report said he was an above average playmaker. Taro’s playmaking has stood out as well. He does not shoot the puck as much. But as he gets more comfortable the Wings will ask him to shoot more often.

Taro,  led the NCAA in points this past season with 50, 15 Goals, 35 assists Hirose also edged out Wolverines defender Quinn Hughes winning the Big Ten player of the year award.

The 22-year-old has made a seamless transition from Michigan State to the NHL. So seamless in fact that Detroit is using  him on the power play. Hirose has put his display a superb amount of speed on display.

It is rare that a player just out of college is not afraid to make plays. “I try to study the game and create offense and before you get the puck, just to know where guys like to be,” Hirose said. “Talk with my linemates and figure out the areas of the ice they like to go. It’s sort of like second nature when you get the puck, you know where they’ll be, and you can make those no-look, nice passes.”

“He looks like he wants to make a play every time he has the puck,” coach Jeff Blashill said. The Detroit Red Wings seem to have signed a player who is ready to step in full time next season. He is exactly the kind of playmaker Detroit needs going forward.

The Detroit Red Wings need Anthony Mantha to be more consistent

Embed from Getty Images Anthony Mantha had hoped this would be the season he would break the 30 goal marker. A bad start to the season coupled with a injured  hand due to a fight Dec. 2 – which kept Mantha out of 15 games just as he was turning his season around has left the Detroit Red Wings forward seeking consistency.

While Mantha does have 19 goals on the season and a real shot at 20, Anthony Mantha was asked if 20 goals is a satisfying, “No, it’s not,” Mantha said after Saturday night’s game. “I’ve had ups and down this year, but I had to focus a little more on the downs and try to build off of that for next year,  and try to be an even better player next year.”

This has been the feeling for the Detroit Red Wings and Mantha. For three seasons now this was supposed to be his break-out season. Once again it was not. That is the bad. Not to just key in on that, there is good as well.

For instance, Anthony Mantha, has played much better defense and on the power play. He has proven himself to be a key player for the Wings. Mantha needs to take the next step.

Mantha broke his hand defending teammate Dylan Larkin, in turn making himself a better one. “There’s inherent risk in getting into a fight. He was sticking up for Larkin in that case, who got his head rung against the boards.” Detroit Red Wings coach Jeff Blashill said.

Mantha said he would and will do it again with hesitation. It did appear that when he came back after hand surgery, Mantha was not as aggressive. He looked tentative. Which is somewhat expected. Mantha did not bounce back into form for three weeks post surgery.

For Anthony Mantha and the Detroit Red Wings, he needs to take the next step and become the consistent scoring threat he has flashed so many times in the past. Mantha needs to show he is ready to take his game and the team to the next level. Something he is capable of doing.

Healthy once again Miguel Cabrera is ready to lead the Detroit Tigers

Embed from Getty Images “I feel good. And I want to feel that in the season.” Miguel Cabrera is ready for the 2019 Detroit Tigers season to start. Having missed three and a half months of last season due to a ruptured biceps, Cabrera hit his fourth home run of the spring.

Miguel Cabrera, once one the most feared hitters in major league baseball, is looking like he has turned the clock back this spring. Hitting the ball with extreme force. He is pulling the ball with power. “Not long ago people were saying, “What happened to his power?” Tigers general manager Al Avila said. “He still has it.”

Miguel said he feels good going into this season. Better than the past two injured filled seasons. Cabrera, looks like he has a fresh spring in his step this spring. He is healthy and stated that is his goal. To stay healthy all season.

Scouts, general managers as well as opposing players have noted Miguel Cabrera looks good this spring. Very good. One manager said “You knew he would not end his career on a down note. Proud athletes never do. He is going to be a handful at the plate again this season.”

It is not the four home runs that has people talking it is the fact he is hitting over .300 and leading the Detroit Tigers in doubles and R.B.I.’s not too mention Cabrera is hitting the ball all over the field again.

Miguel Cabrera is 35 home runs away from 500 for his career. If he does indeed stay healthy that is doable this season. One thing to remember, when Cabrera has been locked in, in the past teams walk him. This season that may not be ideal as he will have Nicholas Castellanos and Christian Stewart hitting in front and behind him.

A healthy Miguel Cabrera does not add more wins to the Detroit Tigers outlook in 2019. Nor does it change the fact Detroit is still mid-rebuild. It does give fans something to watch and cheer for. As they wait for pipeline players to make their way to Comerica Park.

If Miguel Cabrera does stay healthy, he would be a good bet for American League Comeback Player Of the Year.