Detroit Tigers, Game 9: One thing I loved, one thing I didn't
The News' Tony Paul gives his quick takes on the Tigers' game against the Cardinals on Sunday.
Detroit ā The News' Tony Paul gives his quick takes on the Tigers' 5-3 loss to the Cardinals on Sunday: One thing I loved This one goes to the fans. I wasn't sure how many no-shows there would be for this, given Justin Verlander's long-awaited return to Comerica Park as a Tiger was scrapped by a stint on the injured list (left hip). Plus, game-time temperature for the game on "Sunday Night Baseball" was 42 degrees, to go along with a stiff breeze.
But it wasn't a bad crowd at all, with a lower bowl nearly full, and plenty of seats filled in upstars, too. That's a good sign for the Tigers that the buzz for this team is real, after back-to-back playoff appearances, and a winter shopping spree that boosted the payroll to nearly $240 million, tops in franchise history. For the series against the Cardinals ā the first three home games of 2026 ā the Tigers drew 102,539 fans (that's paid attendance), including their largest crowd on Opening Day (45,008) since 2017 .
It's a good start in the team's quest to get back to the 3-million mark for a reason for the first time since 2013. More Kerry Bonds bombs like this certainly will help the cause ... HAPPY EASTER FROM KERRY CARPENTER pic.
twitter. com/DuGTdXnYn1 ā Detroit Tigers (@tigers) April 6, 2026 One thing I didn't I absolutely ABS. I'm guessing that the umpires ā despite their desire to get calls right ā are slower to come around.