Tigers Prone To The Long Ball Early

One Detroit weakness is clear -- giving up three-run home runs.

"That's been our nemesis so far, obviously," Manager Jim Leyland said after Baltimore used a three-run shot to improve to 4-0 and drop Detroit to 1-3. "A home run with a couple of guys on, that's hurt us in all of our games really up to this point."

The Tigers led the world in spring training earned run average -- guess that confirms what spring statistics mean -- but in three games against the Yankees and one so far against the Orioles scoring early and in bunches has been the norm off Detroit pitching.

The Tigers have allowed 10 home runs in 33 innings thus far this season.

Brian Roberts hit the three-run home run Detroit allowed in Baltimore's home opener. It was a fly ball, but a fly ball that just kept carrying until it went out in right center.

"We didn't have many chances," Leyland said. "They had runners on base and got a home run. We didn't."

The Orioles hit just one home run; the Yankees had nine in three games.

Rick Porcello gave up the three-run home run to Roberts.

Justin Verlander, who gave up a three-run blow to Mark Teixeira in the season-opener, pitches Thursday in Detroit's next game.

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