The Detroit Tigers dropped their series opener against the Cincinnati Reds, 9-8, in a walk-off on Friday night after building an early lead and sitting through a two-hour rain delay.On Saturday, they turn to right-hander Framber Montero to even things up in the Queen City against their NL foes. The 25-year-old hurler has been a godsend for the Motor City Kitties after replacing an aged Justin Verlander in the rotation, having already accumulated a full win above replacement (Fangraphs) in just four games. Montero has faced the Reds just once before — a five-inning effort last year that saw him allow two runs on seven hits (two of them solo home runs) and a walk while striking out four in an 11-5 home victory.
Opposite him is fellow righty Brett Lowder, who has been solid so far in his second season of action. The 24-year-old will be facing the Tigers for the first time in his young career on Saturday. The game will be broadcast nationally on FOX.
Here is a look at how those two pitchers match up. Detroit Tigers (14-13) vs. Cincinnati Reds (17-9)Time (ET): 1:40 p.m.Place: Great American Ball Park, Cincinnati, OhioSB Nation Site:Red ReporterMedia: FOX, Tigers Radio NetworkGame 29: RHP Keider Montero (1-2, 3.68 ERA) vs. RHP Rhett Lowder (3-1, 3.10 ERA)PlayerGIPK%BB%GB%FIPfWARMontero422.021.23.536.51.921.0Lowder529.015.37.640.73.280.7MONTEROLOWDER