Kenley Jansen blows save on walk-off HR in Game 1; Tigers lose 8th straight The Detroit Tigers extended their losing streak to eight games after a dramatic collapse in the ninth inning of Game 1 against the Baltimore Orioles on Sunday, May 24, at Oriole Park at Camden Yards. The Tigers fell to a 5-3 decision as right-handed reliever Kenley Jansen failed to protect a 2-1 lead, surrendering a walk-off three-run home run to Colton Cowser. The loss marked the team’s 16th defeat in 18 games, deepening their struggles in a challenging season. The game began with the Tigers holding a 2-1 advantage entering the final three innings, thanks to a strong performance from left-hander Framber Valdez. The 32-year-old, signed to a three-year, $115 million free-agent contract, pitched six innings, allowing one run on two hits and two walks while striking out five. Valdez, known for his ground-ball tendencies, navigated several flyouts to the warning track but managed to keep the Orioles in check. His effort was highlighted by a solo home run from Gunnar Henderson, who hit a hanging curveball for a sixth-inning solo shot. Despite the Orioles’ 92 mph exit velocity on 15 balls in play, Valdez’s control and command kept the Tigers in the game. The Tigers’ offensive push began in the fourth inning, when they capitalized on a defensive error by Baltimore first baseman Pete Alonso. After Brandon Young retired the first eight batters, Zack Short led off the third with a double, setting the stage for a rally. Kevin McGonigle reached on a leadoff single, and Dillon Dingler’s flare toward Alonso created a pivotal moment. Alonso, attempting to force out McGonigle, let the ball drop near first base, allowing runners to reach second and third.#detroit_tigers #baltimore_orioles #framber_valdez #kenley_jansen #colton_cowser
Mike Burrows: Rising Star in Houston's Rotation The 2025 season marks a pivotal moment for Mike Burrows, a pitcher whose journey from a standout high school prospect to a potential key contributor for the Houston Astros has been marked by both challenges and flashes of brilliance. Drafted in the 11th round by the Pittsburgh Pirates in 2018 for a $500,000 signing bonus, Burrows has navigated a winding path through the minor leagues, overcoming setbacks and refining his skills to position himself as a promising addition to Houston’s rotation. Burrows’ early career was defined by inconsistency. In his first full season with the Pirates in 2019, he posted a 4.33 ERA and 1.466 WHIP, struggling with control and allowing over a hit per inning. However, a breakout 2021 season—where he slashed his ERA to 2.76 and improved his strikeout rate to 12.1 K/9—hinted at his potential. The following year, a mix of success and struggle saw him post a 4.01 ERA across the minors, though his 10.6 K/9 rate and 3.0 BB/9 rate showcased his ability to dominate hitters when on track. A major setback came in 2023, when Burrows underwent Tommy John surgery after just two starts. His return in 2024 was uneven, with a 5.26 ERA and 1.539 WHIP across three levels of the minors, suggesting he was still finding his rhythm. Yet, his 2025 season with the Pirates turned things around. Starting the year in the minors, Burrows posted a 2.51 ERA and 1.052 WHIP, striking out 11.4 K/9 while walking just 3.1 BB/9. His performance earned him a call-up to the majors in late May, where he continued to impress with a 3.94 ERA and 1.240 WHIP over 23 games (19 starts). The Pirates’ decision to trade Burrows to Houston in a three-team deal with the Rays in the offseason underscores his value.#pittsburgh_pirates #tommy_john_surgery #houston_astros #mike_burrows #framber_valdez
