I’d go with Hamels, although admittedly it’s much riskier. Verlander will take another big step forward this year and has a ridiculous offense supporting him. But Hamels’ changeup is a top-5 pitch in the game, and his WHIP/Ks upside are real enticing. He does give up too many homers, however. And the injury risk is a major deal.

That said, it likewise seems self-evident that “Comerica” (christ I hate these corporate names, every time I have to type something as dumb as “comerica” it makes me want to put on a Stooges album and start shooting heroin) is a better pitchers park than “Citizens” or whatever the hell it is called. That’s one thing. The other thing is the health. Verlander has been pretty strong throughout his young career, despite some big innings, while Hamels’ history is obviously checkered.

Looking at Hamels, I just get the feeling his arm is tenuous. It’d be a damn shame for him to join Bedard and Liriano in the Talented Lefty Zipper Club, but if I had to guess, I’d say it happens. I think he eventually breaks down and goes under the knife. Maybe not this year, but within the next 30 months at most. I hope to god I’m wrong, but I have a terrible feeling about him for some reason.