The Tigers' World Series window always came with an expiration date, but there still may be hope for one more run as a number of key players are starting to get healthy.When the Tigers lost the World
Wilson Ramos Jersey Series in 2012, the general a sumption was that they would be back, and it wouldn't take long for them to do so. Detroit fans have waited not always patiently for that day to come after the franchise went all-in for the "now", while abandoning the "future" in the proce s.Some risky roster gambles did not pay off. The Tigers certainly could find room for the likes of Devon Travis, Hernan Perez and Avisail Garcia young players the team traded and have gone on to become solid contributors.Instead, the Tigers are razor thin at key positions in their minor leagues, which has fans hoping this season can be a special one.That hope has been stalled so far this season due to a number of injuries, a young rotation still finding its way, and an embarra singly bad bullpen, at least at times.Outfielder J.D. Martinez began the season on the disabled list due to a sprained ankle. Hehas been serving as a designated hitter lately at extended spring training and is ready to take on his first rehab a signment withHigh-A LakelandFriday. He could be back with the Tigers late next week.The Tigers also got Miguel Cabrera back earlier this week after he served a stint on the disabled list with a groin injury. It was just his second DL stint during his illustrious career.Guys like Cabrera and Martinez are e sential to Detroit's fading title hopes, because they are smart hitters that force pitchers deep into counts, and usually make them pay.Any time a team has one shutter shut on their chances to reach the World Series, they need all their man power in tact to get over the hump.They also need pitching. From top to bottom, Detroit has a solid rotation. Justin Verlander was arguably robbed of the AL Cy Young award last year after receiving the
Rays Cool Base Custom White Jersey most first-place votes, and Michael Fulmer developed into one of the best young arms in MLB.Daniel Norris, who was acquired by the Tigers in the David Price trade, has shown flashes of electric stuff. He
Tampa Bay Rays Team Columbia Jersey just needs to become more consistent with his off-speed pitches. The Tigers also have young Matthew Boyd, who may be the third-best pitcher on the team right now.The X-Factor is Jordan Zimmermann. The high-priced signing from last offseason has been disastrous in a Tigers uniform, which has made it tough to trust their supposed No. 3 starter.Through the first month of the season, Detroit finds itself just one game behind the Indians and the surprising White Sox. The Twins are also a half-game ahead of the Tigers, so the AL Central looks set for a season-long battle. The Tigers may be aging, and their needle may be pointing downwardslightly, but this team still has the pieces to contend for the postseason and more.Late owner Mike Ilitch gave everything he had to see his beloved Tigers win another World Series, and with a little luck and some summer moves they could honor him with a special season.