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Tigers look to regain momentum, host Devil Rays

Aug 6, 2007 - 1:03 PM Tampa Bay (42-68) at Detroit (61-49) 7:05 pm EDT

DETROIT (Ticker) -- The Detroit Tigers hope to put an end to their worst stretch of the season when they open a four-game series with the Tampa Bay Devil Rays on Monday.

The Tigers have lost a season-high five consecutive games, their worst run since dropping the final five game of the 2006 regular season. Detroit has not lost six consecutive games since enduring an eight-game skid from September 16-23, 2005.

Despite the recent slump, the Tigers remain in good standing in the American League Central, beginning the day just one-half game behind the Cleveland Indians.

Detroit starter Justin Verlander (11-4, 3.49 ERA) will be looking for his first win in three starts. In four starts since the All-Star break, the 6-5 righthander is 1-1 with a 5.04 ERA.

Edwin Jackson (2-11, 6.56) takes the mound for the Devil Rays, who have lost 11 of their last 15 games. After starting the year 0-8, the 23-year-old is 2-3 in his last eight starts.

On his 26th birthday, Tampa Bay's Carl Crawford had three hits, including a home run, in Sunday's loss to the Baltimore Orioles. He is batting .443 in his last 16 games.

Detroit designated hitter Sean Casey was removed from Sunday's loss against the Chicago White Sox after being hit in the left elbow by a pitch. He said he was sore but did not expect to miss any time.