There is no question that Detroit has one of the most underrated, yet one of the most talented rotations in the major leagues. With last season's AL MVP and Cy Young winner Justin Verlander leading the way, it's safe to say that teams will have their hands tied once they have to face the Tigers any giving night. That being said, with spring training coming up, we will see how Jim Leyland and his staff will set up the rotation to become a successful ball club. Here are my predictions for this year's starting rotation for the Tigers.
1. Justin Verlander
It will be hard for Justin to match his marvelous 2011 season, but that's doesn't mean he won't be as dominant this year. The number one spot is a sure lock for Verlander.
2. Doug Fister
In my opinion, the most underrated pitcher in the MLB would have to be Fister. Going 8-1 with the Tigers and 4-12 with the Seattle Mariners last season, this shows how successful pitchers can be with talent surrounding them. Don't be surprised hearing talks of Fister in the Cy Young Award race this year.
3. Max Scherzer, Rick Porcello
Both of these young pitchers have the opportunity to lock in the 3rd spot in the rotation. Both have excellent talent when they step up onto the pitchers mound. it's hard to choose between each one. But if I had to pick, it would have to Scherzer, because of the more experience he has had so far in the majors.
5. Jacob Turner
One of the most highly anticipated prospects in the MLB. There have been numerous talks of potentially trading him for a veteran pitcher, which would be mind blowing to me. In 1987, the Tigers traded prospect John Smoltz for veteran Doyle Alexander. Just think how great the Tigers would have been if they held on to Smoltz.
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