Mike

Maroth

Maroth will be in pitcher-friendly Pac Bell. We still think that his 1.18 WHIP, if he can maintain it, will help him improve gradually on his 1-10 record and 5.56 ERA.

Despite the lack of success, Maroth is the favorite to start on Opening Day for the Tigers. He’ll pitch in a minor league game next time out.

Maroth has struggled mightily lately, but Trammell doesn’t seem to think there’s anything physically wrong with him.

The Tigers are happy with Maroth, but could part with him for the right package. Texas may be hesitant to pay the asking price, as Maroth is a much more effective pitcher at home in spacious Comerica Park.

If all goes well, Maroth is then scheduled to begin a minor league rehab assignment Wednesday at Triple-A. Maroth is hoping to return after no more than three rehab outings.

He’ll be on a 55-pitch count and will likely make at least two more rehab appearances before coming back off the disabled list.

Maroth allowed a couple of homers. He’s due to make at least two more rehab starts before rejoining the Tigers.

“I really believe I’ll be back pitching before the end of the year,” Maroth said. The initial timetable has Maroth out for 2-3 months, which would give him time for some late-season innings.

Maroth is expected to miss two to three months following surgery last week to remove bone chips from his elbow.

How things have changed for the Tigers the last few days. Bone chips are a lot better than ligament damage, but Maroth still might miss two to three months. The Tigers aren’t currently providing any timetable for his return. Roman Colon is filling in for him in the rotation.