Tigers Battle Guardians in AL Wild Card Series Opener

CLEVELAND, OH — The Detroit Tigers and Cleveland Guardians kick off the AL Wild Card Series on Tuesday at 1:08 p.m. ET at Progressive Field. The Tigers will send Tarik Skubal to the mound, while Gavin Williams is expected to start for the Guardians.

The matchup is crucial for both teams as they vie for a spot in the playoffs. Skubal comes into the game with a record of 13-6 and a 2.21 ERA. Williams, on the other hand, holds a 12-5 record with a 3.06 ERA.

In their last five games, the Tigers have struggled, currently sitting at 87-74, while the Guardians are slightly ahead at 88-74. Both teams are looking to build momentum as they head into the postseason.

The Tigers’ injury list includes Colt Keith (rib cage, 10-day IL) and Matt Vierling (oblique, 10-day IL), among others, which could impact their performance. The Guardians also face injuries, including Ben Lively (forearm, 60-day IL) and David Fry (nose, 10-day IL).

After winning 5-1 against the Tigers on September 24, the Guardians have won 17 of their last 19 games. This includes victories in their previous five matchups against Detroit, emphasizing their current strong form.

“Every game counts right now,” said Guardians manager Terry Francona. “Our focus is to take it one game at a time and do whatever it takes to win.”

Fans can catch all the action live on ESPN. The anticipation builds as both teams prepare for a high-stakes battle to secure their spot in the next round of the playoffs.