Excitement in Lakeland

I remember 1984 like it was just the other day. The Tigers spring training wasn't very good; I think the team's record was 9–17. They had signed a big name free agent for the first time in the team's history in Darrell Evans and made a huge trade for an ace reliever in Willie Hernandez. Things were looking up as the season arrived. After the incredible 35–5 start to the season, the Tigers never looked back. They led from day one until the day the World Series ended. That has only happened a couple times.

The same expectations have arrived in Lakeland, circa 2008. It's cool to know that the Tigers are expected to do well. Let's not forget it's been nearly 25 years since that magical '84 season. The various newspapers are covering the Tigers and some online photo services are displaying the players, as well.

What's cool about this crew is that they seem excited about the expectations. The regular, everyday players are not due to arrive until the middle of this week; however, several players are already on site and apparently raring to start the season.

March 31 can't get here soon enough!!!