DETROIT – If you want a big inning these days, your best bet is hitting the ball in Robinson Cano’s direction.
It was Cano’s error yesterday that helped the Tigers make a surge, with six runs in the fourth inning of their eventual 13-9 loss to the Yankees.
On Saturday, Cano made a throwing error in the seventh inning that opened the door for the Blue Jays to eventually overtake the Yankees for a victory.
The Tigers had already gotten two runs in the fourth yesterday and had runners first and second with nobody out when Placido Polanco hit a grounder under Cano’s glove. A run scored, pulling the Tigers within 11-5.
“I didn’t put my glove down,” Cano said. “I thought there was going to be a hop.”
Manager Joe Girardi refused to address the error with reporters, saying he only wanted to focus on yesterday’s positives.
While Ivan Rodriguez was making a homecoming to Comerica Park – he received a rousing ovation – the Yankees had a chance to renew acquaintances with Kyle Farnsworth for the first time since the Rodriguez-Farnsworth deal at the trade deadline.
Farnsworth has struggled with the Tigers, posting a 4.76 ERA in 11 appearances since the trade. Not that Rodriguez has helped the Yankees – he’s hitting only .219 since arriving.
Farnsworth said he’s surprised how far the Yankees have fallen over the last month.
“The talent is over there,” Farnsworth said. “There is no reason for them to be where they are right now. You can’t put your finger on one certain thing. That’s just the way it is.”
*Dan Giese will be activated from the disabled list before tonight’s game. With Joba Chamberlain also set to return, the Yankees will have 10 relievers.
GM Brian Cashman is traveling with the team, something he seldom does, but said there is no added significance to his presence on this road trip. Cashman said he expects to meet with team ownership over the next three days in the Tampa Bay area.
“If they’ll see me,” Cashman quipped.