Pitching could play an important role in Tigers success, Alex Avila – MLB News
In an interview with Television channel, Alex Avila stated that pitching can play a crucial role in deciding the outcome of Tigers MLB campaign in 2012. The Tigers made the most of available opportunities to win the American League Central title last season. However, Mike Ilitch's side was unable to live up to the expectations in the postseason as they failed to make it to the World Series.
Last season, Justin Verlander was the star of the Tigers' pitching pack. Showing his great throwing abilities, he helped the Tigers win the American League Central title. For his consistent performances, he was also awarded the Triple Crown of pitching. Although he continued his impressive form in the playoffs as well, Verlander did not get much support by other pitchers in the line-up that eventually led to Tigers downfall.
However, with some fresh faces in Tigers pitching line-up, catcher Alex Avila is convinced that the team will be more consistent in the post season in 2012. Avila further added that the team will do everything to shut their critics up. The Tigers will be looking to do well in all aspects of the game to win more consistently.
"Throughout the course of the season, you're not going to do all three of those consistently all the time," Avila told host Karl Ravech. "Each aspect has to pick each other up, and being able to get consistent pitching is at the top of the list. Then everything else will follow, and you kind of gain confidence as the season goes on when you're able to play consistent baseball in all aspects of the game."
“They're motivated to finish what they started last season,” he further added.
The biggest challenge for the Tigers this season will be to play like a single unit. There are quite a few big names in their squad and therefore, Manager Jim Leyland will have a lot to think about before the start of Spring Training. Tigers, on the other hand, will be hoping to execute their plans to perfection to cheer up some of their disappointed fans. Prince Fielder, Miguel Cabrera and Justin Verlander will be having great amount of responsibility on their shoulders.
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