Throwback Thursday: Lakeland, Florida 2011

Another stop 10 years ago this spring was Joker Marchant Field in Lakeland. The Tigers' longtime Grapefruit League home would be renovated a few years later and rebranded with Publix Supermarkets.
A trademark Florida sky with plenty of palm trees to seduce visitors coming down from up north.
Preparing for the season ahead, Chalie Manuel, manager of the four-time defending NL East champs, with his stars Ryan Howard and Jimmy Rollins.
Detroit's most potent bat belonged to Miguel Cabrera. who'd go on to lead the American League in batting average, on base percentage and doubles.
Jimmy Rollins takes a lefthanded swing...
...against Rick Porcello. The New Jersey native would go 14-9 in the regular season.
Now, it's Ryan Howard's turn...
Detroit's Brennan Boesch gets ready while watching teammate Victor Martinez. 
Heading back to the parking lot, with a nod to two Tiger legends from their 1968 World champions.




 

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