The high point of an otherwise up-and-down first week for the Defending American League Champion Detroit Tigers was undeniably Pudge Rodriguez's 9th-inning, three-run, game-winning home run yesterday. I caught the game on radio, and I'm still reveling in the glory.

(We'll ignore, please, today's uninspiring loss to the Orioles. That means you, Martino.)

For me, this week has been a chance to enjoy the contributions of Gary Sheffield, the Tigers' highest-profile off-season addition. I think it's fair to say that Sheff came to Detroit with a negative reputation: surly demeanor, steroids allegations, former Yankee-dom.

But in three small ways, Sheffield has won me over.

1. That home run last week.

Always nice. :)

2. His "Small Ball".

During the 8-run inning last week against, Sheff strung together a couple of tiny plays that added up in a big way.

First, he was batting when Placido Polanco stole second. Obviously, the batter can't take too much credit for a steal, but we've all seen them screw it up from time to time.

Second, during the same at-bat, he drew a walk. Last year, the Tigers drew the third fewest bases on balls in the majors. Improving this statistic is basically the only way they can improve their offense. It's nice to see Sheff bringing patience to the Detroit lineup.

Finally, that same inning, he scored from second on a hit to centerfield. The play didn't look like much until the announcers replayed it a few times. Turns out that seconds before the pitch, Sheffield glanced around the diamond to see where the defense was positioned. He was able to break for third at the crack of the bat BECAUSE HE KNEW THE DEFENSE COULDN'T CATCH THE FLAIRED SINGLE.

Three tiny details, all in the middle of a huge inning. I don't think that's coincidence.

3. His sense of history and responsibility.

Last week, the Tigers announced Sheffield would wear number 42 this weekend in honor of the 60th anniversary of Jackie Robinson breaking baseball's color barrier.

At the time, he was to be the only Tiger paying this special tribute. MLB has since allowed any player who wants to participate, but it's still neat to know Sheffield wanted it more than any other Tigers.

Additionally, the article outlines some of his many off-field accomplishments, including winning the Thurman Munson Award for community service in 2004. Always good to have someone like that on the team.

Welcome to Detroit, Mr. Sheffield. It's an honor to have you with us. If you have a chance, go check out Hart Plaza. You'll be spending a lot of time there come late October.