World Series note
BOSTON — Armed with the most dominant starting rotation in the majors and the consensus choice as the game’s best hitter, the Detroit Tigers seemed poised to make good on their preseason vow to avenge last year’s World Series sweep.
But even after winning a division title and reaching the American League Championship Series for the third year in a row, the Tigers head into the off-season licking their wounds and wondering how long their window of opportunity will stay open.
“I’m very proud of what we’ve done, but ever since I’ve been here, the goal is to win a World Series,” said catcher Alex Avila in a somber Tigers clubhouse after a Saturday’s ALCSclinching 5-2 loss to the Boston Red Sox. “Any time that’s not the case at the end of the season, if we don’t win our last game, it’s disappointing.”
Perhaps the most disappointing thing about the season was the way it ended — with a base-running blunder short-circuiting a big inning and an error by their best defender contributing to a game-winning rally.
“You can always look back and second-guess. We probably should have won at least one of these games,” said right fielder Torii Hunter, who has played 2,091regular season games and another 44 in the postseason over his 17-year career. Hunter, 38, is signed through 2014.
“It’s tough, it’s tough for me. The door is closing.”
The Tigers were a battered team, both mentally and physically, after falling to Boston in six grueling games.
Third baseman Miguel Cabrera, last year’s AL MVP and the front-runner for the award again this year, was perhaps the most worn down. Noticeably slowed by leg and abdominal injuries that reduced his mobility and limited his power, he hit .262 with two extra-base hits in the postseason.
Cardinals cleanup hitter Allen Craig says he’s recovered from a foot injury and ready to be put on St. Louis’ World Series roster.
“I’m happy with where I’m at,” Craig said Sunday. “No complaints. I’m happy to be on the roster and give it a shot, so I’m really excited.”
Craig hasn’t played since Sept. 4 because a left mid-foot sprain. He anticipates being the designated hitter in Wednesday night’s Series opener in Boston.
“I think all indications are pointing that way,” Craig said. “I haven’t been told, ‘Hey, you’re on the roster,’ but given my progress, I think I’m in a good spot.”