CLIO -- Ernie Harwell is 91 years old, but that's actually misleading.  He's more like 91 years YOUNG...and he's hoping this year's Tigers will help erase a 2008 season which made all Tiger fans feel a little older.

"I think after the debacle of last year, you know, where expectations were so high, and the execution didn't live up to expectations," said Harwell, before adding "I think we're in for an interesting season."

The trade for Dontrelle Willis and Miguel Cabrera had everyone in the Motor City talking about a return to the World Series, and that, said Mr. Harwell, was the problem.

"Everybody was ordering World Series tickets in March, and telling these guys that they were gonna make it," he explained.  "And they began to believe it, probably. You just have to get out and do one game at a time, and play hard, and I think they do that."

Mr. Harwell has seen his share of legendary Tiger hitters throughout the years, and he has little doubt that Miguel Cabrera could one day reach that plateau.

"I say if he can stay away from injury, and keep hitting the way he does because he hits to all fields, he's hard to pitch to," said Harwell. "I think he's gonna rack up some great numbers as a hitter."

His admiration of Cabrera's hitting talents are similar to the respect he shows for the Tigers' skipper.  Mr. Harwell's relationship with Jim Leyland is one which spans decades.

"I'm very fond of Jim Leyland," said Harwell.  "I think he's got the right idea managing. He's a good, steady manager, and he handles himself well and handles his players well. And I hope the very best for him."

So where will the Tigers finish in 2009?  Not even the iconic broadcaster is completely sure... but he does see bright days on the horizon.

"Some of these young pitchers have shown a lot," he began.  "You know, Galarraga, Jackson's looked good so far, and some of the other guys who have come through. So, I'm pretty optimistic. I think the race is gonna be super-close."