4 years agoDetroit Tigers left-handed pitcher Tyler Alexander made history during Game 1 of Sunday's doubleheader versus the Reds when he struck out nine consecutive batters, tying the American League record. Alexander’s appearance was out of relief and may have forced the hand of manager Ron Gardenhire, who said that after watching the southpaw that he “might be pushing his way” into the rotation moving forward. Detroit has had early season difficulties finding arms to man starts and Alexander, who made eight starts for the club last year, seems as dynamic a candidate as any. While owners will want to temper expectations if he does join the starting staff, things began to click for him at Triple-A last season where he set a new career high with 9.9 K/9.--Jesse Borek
Source: Jason Beck