Detroit is going through some challenging times right now. Five percent of the city’s properties are for sale at a $500 auction, its debt now stands at more than $12 billion and counting, and unemployment has soared to above 20 percent. The U.S. unemployment rate was 7.8 percent in September.
Those are some of the reasons why I’m rooting for Detroit to win. The city’s passionate citizens need this win more than anyone. Financial challenges has plunged Detroit into a dark era where foreclosed homes dot the suburbs and police chiefs are regularly ensnared in sex scandals. Sure, it’s only sports, but a World Series championship could boost the spirits of a city down in the dumps.
Remember when the New Orleans Saints won the Super Bowl and how everyone said it was a necessary salve to heal the city’s wounds in the wake of Katrina?
Also on my mind is how the Giants won the World Series in 2010 and the Tigers last won the big show in 1984. It’s boring for baseball when the same team is on top almost every year. The Tigers are due. They have excellent starting pitchers, impressive offensive firepower and top-notch defense. Look at how columnists are calling well-rested ace Justin Verlander “the best pitcher on the planet,” thanks to winning his last seven starts with a 0.69 ERA. Look at the dynamic 1-2 punch of Miguel Cabrera and Prince Fielder. The Tigers have the pieces to win the World Series, and boy does Michigan need it!
No matter the final score, though, I expect an exciting and tight World Series, giving America’s pastime a worth send-off for the 2012 season. I just hope it’s the city of Detroit enjoying that “baseball bump” of happiness instead of the prosperous San Francisco.
