Detroit is back home for 7 games starting tonight against the Indians after the Tigers had the day off yesterday following their 3-and-6 road trip that saw them avoid a sweep at Boston with a Wednesday night win over the Red Sox. The Tigers need to take care of business against a slumping Cleveland team before the American League leading Yankees arrive for a 4-game series beginning Monday. The Indians are on a six game slide including their extra-inning loss last night at Kansas City.

Detroit sends recently acquired right-hander Anibal Sanchez to the mound tonight for his first start as a Tiger at home. Sanchez was shelled for 3 homers in his Detroit debut in a losing effort at Toronto. The second place Tigers remain 2-and-a-half games behind the Central Division leading White Sox, who were idle on Thursday. The White Sox host the Angels this weekend. The Cubs, who also had the day off yesterday, are out West to face the Dodgers tonight.