It's cloudy, chilly, and there's a chance of snow. Must be the Tigers' opening day in Detroit.
The Tigers play their home opener at Comerica Park this Friday afternoon against the New York Yankees.
Manager Brad Ausmus' club is coming off a disappointing 2015 season, missing the playoffs and finishing last in the American League Central Division. It was out of character for a team that made the playoffs four years in a row previously, and reached the World Series in 2012.
But fans have high hopes this year. Stars like pitcher Justin Verlander and first baseman Miguel Cabrera are healthy. Competition for their division will be tough against the defending World Series champion Kansas City Royals.
Local media have varied expectations for the team.
Mitch Albom writes for the Detroit Free Press:
I’m tempted to say anyone can win the World Series these days, but then I remember the Phillies. Sure, it’s possible, but the pitching staff would have to way overperform.
The team is also off to a good start so far, winning their first two games against the Miami Marlins.
Fans have a special guest to look forward to this season: 89-year-old Holocaust survivor Hermina Hirsch is scheduled to sing the national anthem in May, the AP reported. Hirsch has lived near Detroit for over 60 years, and has long dreamed of singing the national anthem.
The Tigers learned of Hirsch after she posted a video of herself singing the anthem online, according to the AP. You can watch her sing here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vmBnqrj0K5g
First pitch at Comerica is at 1:10 p.m.
