Los Angeles @ Detroit preview

Last Meeting ( Apr 21, 2013 ) Detroit 3, LA Angels 4

For all their problems this season, the Los Angeles Angels still have the Detroit Tigers’ number. The disappointing Angels have won six in a row against the Tigers and are 62-36 against Detroit since 2002. The Angels outscored the Tigers 22-4 in a three-game sweep at Angel Stadium in April, but they’re heading into Tuesday’s series opener at Detroit having lost four of their last six games.

The Tigers have won three of their last four to maintain their lead in the American League Central, and their bullpen appears to be heading in the right direction. Closer Jose Valverde was designated for assignment on Friday, clearing the way for replacement Joaquin Benoit. Left-hander Drew Smyly, who has given up a lead in just one of his 25 appearances, has been moved into a late-inning role.

TV: 7:08 p.m. ET, Fox Sports West (Los Angeles), Fox Sports Detroit

PITCHING MATCHUP: Angels LH C.J. Wilson (6-5, 3.61 ERA) vs. Tigers RH Rick Porcello (4-4, 4.74)

Wilson turned in his second straight quality start last Wednesday, holding the Mariners to two hits over seven shutout innings. Jhonny Peralta is 1-for-19 against the 32-year-old lefty, who owns a 1-2 record with one save and a 4.94 ERA in 10 career games (four starts) against the Tigers. He received a no-decision against the Tigers on April 21, when he gave up three runs in six innings.

After going 4-1 with a 2.84 ERA in his previous nine starts, Porcello allowed six runs in six innings against the Orioles last Wednesday. It was Porcello’s worst outing since giving up nine earned runs in two-thirds of an inning against the Angels on April 20. Josh Hamilton is 3-for-10 with two homers against Porcello, who is 3-3 with a 7.68 ERA in eight career starts against the Angels.

WALK-OFFS

1. Angels CF Peter Bourjos left Sunday’s game with a left thumb injury and is listed as day-to-day.

2. Tigers 3B Miguel Cabrera leads the majors in hitting (.370) and RBIs (75).

3. Los Angeles 3B Alberto Callaspo has committed seven of his eight errors this month.

PREDICTION: Angels 6, Tigers 4