March 9, 2015
The Detroit Tigers enter the 2015 season knowing that their window to win a World Series title may be closing. After losing Max Scherzer to the Washington Nationals, Detroit’s starting rotation is not as formidable as it had been in prior seasons. Questions surrounding Justin Verlander’s velocity have begun as David Price and Anibal Sanchez will be tasked with leading the pitching staff. Verlander’s strikeout total plummeted from 217 to 159 last season while his ERA increased from 3.46 to 4.54. One of the biggest qualms about Detroit’s roster was its average age. Management opted to address that concern by trading for outfielder Yoenis Cespedes and letting Torii Hunter leave via free agency. Detroit also added outfielder Anthony Gose, who should provide speed and defense to right field. Fans are also wondering what designated hitter Victor Martinez can do for an encore. Martinez posted career highs in hits and home runs last season and buoyed this production into a new four-year, $68 million contract. Miguel Cabrera’s health is also worth watching as the burly first baseman is having issues with his foot.
On TicketIQ, the average price on the secondary market for Tigers Opening Day tickets is $208.59 while the get-in price is $106. Detroit’s most expensive ticket price features a matchup against the Chicago White Sox on June 28. The average price on the secondary market is $227.98 while the get-in price is $17. Detroit’s secondary market season average ticket price is $95.13. That is a 60% increase over the season average for home games in 2014.
The Kansas City Royals are the reigning American League champions. Detroit is the reigning American League Central champions. Kansas City and Detroit developed as fierce rivalry during September as the two teams jockeyed for position throughout the season.
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