In their Grapefruit League opener, the Detroit Tigers rallied from a 6-0 deficit to secure a 7-6 walk-off victory against the Philadelphia Phillies. The comeback was highlighted by minor league hitters, with Justice Bigbie delivering the decisive walk-off single.
Starting pitcher Kenta Maeda showcased impressive form, pitching two scoreless innings with four strikeouts and no hits or walks. Notably, his four-seam fastball averaged 92.4 mph, peaking just below 94 mph, a significant increase from his sub-90 mph average last season. Maeda expressed excitement about his performance, noting the unique nerves he felt during the game.
Despite early struggles from other pitchers, the Tigers’ bullpen stabilized, allowing the offense to mount a comeback. Contributions from Ryan Kreidler, Brian Serven, Jahmai Jones, and Ben Malgeri, who hit key doubles, were instrumental in the rally. Defensive adjustments and solid relief pitching from Chase Lee, Wilkel Hernandez, and Brendan White kept the game within reach, setting the stage for Bigbie’s game-winning hit in the ninth inning.
This victory not only marks a strong start to the Tigers’ spring training but also highlights Maeda’s potential impact in the upcoming sea Detroit Tigers’ Kenta Maeda throws 93 mph in walk-off win vs Phillies in spring opener..
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