White Sox-Tigers Preview 7-21-12

(AP) -- Many expected the Detroit Tigers to run away with the AL Central this year, but it's been nearly three months since they were in first place.

The Tigers have a chance to reclaim the division lead Saturday, but they'll have to go through Chris Sale, who takes the mound for the Chicago White Sox at Comerica Park trying to win his ninth straight decision.

After winning the Central last season, Detroit (50-44) was the favorite to repeat behind Justin Verlander - the defending AL MVP and Cy Young Award winner - and newly acquired first baseman Prince Fielder.

Things haven't gone as expected for the Tigers, who haven't been in first place since they were tied with the White Sox (50-43) on April 23. They pulled within a half-game of Chicago on Friday, however, winning the series opener 4-2 thanks to eight strong innings from Verlander.

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