Tiger Pride

The 2006 edition of the World Series ended Friday evening, as the St. Louis Cardinals emerged victorious over the Detroit Tigers, four games to one, with a 4-2 victory in the fifth and final game. The Tigers were plagued by too many errors, as well as bats that were silent far too many times. I have to give the Cardinals their proper respect. When it was necessary, they got it done. They executed, and the Tigers didn't. So, the Cards are the World Series champions, and they deserve it. But... enough about them.

I'd be lying if I said that I wasn't disappointed in the outcome of the World Series. But overall, the Detroit Tigers gave us one helluva thrill ride in 2006. In 2005, the Tigers were 71-91, and finished 28 games out of first place. But 2006 began the era of manager Jim Leyland. I know many had hopes that he could turn the team around, but no one really knew how quickly it would happen. The Tigers took sole possession of first place in the American League Central division in mid-May, and stayed there until the last week of the season, just barely missing the divisional crown, and making the playoffs in the wild-card slot.

And even then, they weren't supposed to get past the New York Yankees. Remember, the Yankees were all but anointed with the World Series title before a single playoff game was played? But that's why they play the games, instead of just comparing stats. Not only did they beat the Yankees, but swept the Oakland A's as well.

If the core of the team remains intact, as it probably will, the Tigers should continue to contend for a playoff berth for many years to come. The Detroit Tigers, your 2006 American League champions. I am damn proud of them.