Tigers End May with Disappointing Series Loss to White Sox

Keider Montero's impressive start was once again overshadowed by the Detroit Tigers' offensive struggles, concluding the month on a frustrating note. Detroit managed to score merely five runs over three games in Chicago, extending their dismal record to just 6-22 for May, a mere 21% win rate. This places them tantalizingly close to matching the 1996 Tigers, who hold the worst May record in 30 years at 4-23.

The Tigers have now suffered through a staggering nine consecutive road series without a victory, at 0-8-1, since their season-opening series win against San Diego. The team’s bullpen faltered in a tense situation, failing to preserve a 1-0 lead, while the players appeared to be playing under significant pressure. With Dillon Dingler resting, the weight of securing a win fell heavily on rookie Keider Montero.

Montero delivered a stellar performance, pitching six innings with only two hits allowed and four strikeouts, showing excellent control with his slider. However, he was lifted after just 65 pitches. Manager A.J. Hinch explained the decision, stating, “Drew (Anderson) has been pretty good against lefties, but they put together four straight hits. It’s a tough call because it’s a 1-0 game. You’re trying to win a 1-0 game if we couldn’t put anything together. I thought that was the best way to get there.”

When Montero was asked if he was surprised by the decision, he simply replied, “Yes, I felt really good. It’s his decision.” This decision raises eyebrows given that aside from Tarik Skubal, Montero is the only Tigers pitcher to have thrown a complete game in the last two seasons, indicating he had more to give.

On the offensive side, the Tigers scored in the first inning thanks to a double from Spencer Torkelson that brought in Kevin McGonigle. Torkelson recorded two of the team's four hits, while Kerry Carpenter made his return with a single. Unfortunately, Detroit struggled with runners in scoring position, going 0-for-4 and leaving six players on base. Their best opportunity came in the sixth inning when two players reached base but failed to capitalize. Ultimately, Montero’s six scoreless innings were not enough, as the Tigers fell to the White Sox once again.

Looking ahead, the Tigers will head to Tampa for a three-game series against the Rays. They are expected to call up Ty Madden from Toledo to start tomorrow, which will necessitate sending down another pitcher such as Ricky Vanasco. The matchups for the upcoming games include Jack Flaherty against lefty Steven Matz and Troy Melton facing Nick Martinez.