How an espresso machine may have fueled the Tigers’ big win vs. Houston

How an espresso machine may have fueled the Tigers’ big win vs. Houston originally appeared on The Sporting News

It’s the age-old question—correlation or causation?

After he was acquired at the Trade Deadline, Charlie Morton added an espresso machine to the Detroit Tigers’ clubhouse, as Jason Beck of MLB.comreports. He did the same during stints with previous teams but said his new Tigers’ teammates seemed to appreciate it more. 

Was it a coincidence then when Morton took the mound on Wednesday, and the Tigers looked like they were buzzing with caffeine after plating six runs in the first inning? Probably, but it’s always fun to speculate.  

Detroit’s energetic first inning

Beck also entertains the idea—though he certainly writes tongue-in-cheek—that “a jolt of caffeine might have translated” into Detroit’s 7-2 victory over the Houston Astros. 

The Tigers fell a home run shy of the cycle in the opening frame, during which they batted once around the order. That marked the fifth time this season Detroit has batted around in the first inning, per Beck. 

What’s more, Astros starter Framber Valdez didn’t record his first out until his 29th pitch. Those offensive fireworks helped Morton earn a quality start (6.0 IP, 2 ER) against his former team. 

Maybe his espresso machine did help after all?

“We’ve had it in there for a couple days, and I think the guys are interested and excited,” he said.

If that’s true, perhaps his Tiger teammates would like a demonstration. Manager A.J. Hinch joked Morton would give “a 30-minute dissertation on espresso making.”

But whatever fueled Detroit’s dominant win on Wednesday hopefully won’t run out anytime soon. The Tigers begin a three-game series against their AL Central rivals, the Kansas City Royals, on Friday at Comerica Park.