As Evan Petzold returns from paternity leave, the Detroit Tigers hold the best record in the American League (22-13) and lead MLB with a plus-63 run differential through 35 games in the 2025 season. They've also launched a league-leading 20 home runs since April 28, doing so in the first seven games of their 10-game road trip. What has stood out most over the first 35 games? And what should we expect from Javier Báez moving forward?

Tigers radio analyst Bobby Scales joins the Days of Roar podcast to break down Detroit's early success, hitting coach Michael Brdar's game planning, and how opposing pitchers are adjusting to Spencer Torkelson, plus he shares his take on Báez's resurgence.To close the show, Evan and Mark Gorosh analyze the Tigers' decision to cut struggling pitcher Kenta Maeda, share injury updates and debate a key question: Which former No. 1 overall pick inspires more confidence — Spencer Torkelson or Casey Mize?

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After a series loss to the Milwaukee Brewers last week, the Tigers went on to clinch series wins against the Kansas City Royals, San Diego Padres, and sweep the Baltimore Orioles. With Evan still away handling baby Petzold duties, Mark brings back Freep high school sports reporter and current pinch Tigers beat reporter Jared Ramsey to help discuss what factors are leading to the Tigers’ strong start to the 2025 season. Beyond valuable pitching from both starters and the bullpen, the guys hone in on the noteworthy month Zach McKinstry is having, as well as the impact Dylan Dingler is making with his bat and behind the plate. Mark and Jared also discuss the continued positive contributions of Javier Báez and Spencer Torkelson. The guys also offer updates on the rehab timelines for Matt Vierling, Parker Meadows, and check in on the minor leaguers including Bryce Rainer.

With Evan still out on the PL (paternity leave), Mark brings in Detroit Free Press high school sports reporter Jared Ramsey, who’s been covering the Tigers for the past week. The guys talk the team’s series loss to the Milwaukee Brewers and series win over the Kansas City Royals. Jared and Mark cover the strong starts from Casey Mike, Jackson Jobe and how Spencer Torkelson is continuing to hit this season. While the vibes overall for the team remain good, not all is well for the Tigers as Riley Greene’s slump continues to linger. The guys take a deep dive into what’s looking different so far for the star outfielder. Later in the show, Mark and Jared preview the upcoming matchups against the San Diego Padres and Baltimore Orioles. The guys also offer updates on player injuries at both the major and minor leagues, plus Mark proposes a dark horse free agent candidate the team could pursue for bullpen help that fans should recognize.