The Detroit Tigers took Game 1 of the 2012 ALDS, beating the Oakland Athletics 3-1. Though the team is down one game in a five-game series, there’s no reason for worry—yet.
The game opened up with excitement as leadoff batter Coco Crisp hit a home run against Tigers ace Justin Verlander.
However, Verlander regained composure as the game progressed, striking out 11 A’s batters along the way. Jose Valverde came into for the save.
It was a pitching duel—one decided by defense.
Though the A’s didn’t hit particularly well, there was still plenty of positive takeaways from the Oct. 6 ALDS opener.
Here are nine reasons A’s fans should remain calm.