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The Detroit Tigers kicked off the 2025 postseason with a crucial 2-1 victory over the Cleveland Guardians in Game 1 of the AL Wild Card series. Behind an electric performance from ace Tarik Skubal, Detroit set the tone in Cleveland as they now look to clinch the series.
Skubal Ties Franchise Strikeout Record
If there was any doubt about who Detroit would ride into October, Skubal erased it. The left-hander struck out 14 batters, tying Joe Coleman’s 1972 mark for the most strikeouts in a Tigers postseason game.
Skubal attacked Cleveland’s lineup with precision, mixing in a sharp slider and a high-octane fastball that silenced a crowd itching to see their club seize control. For a Tigers team that stumbled through September, his start was the perfect reset button.
Tigers’ Offense Delivers Just Enough
Detroit’s offense didn’t put up big numbers, but they delivered when it mattered. Spencer Torkelson and Zach McKinstry each drove in a run, all the cushion Skubal and the bullpen needed.
The Guardians had their chances late, but Detroit’s relievers held firm to protect the one-run lead. In a series where every run feels magnified, the Tigers made the most of their limited opportunities.
What’s Next
Attention now shifts to Wednesday’s Game 2. Detroit hands the ball to Casey Mize (14-6, 3.87 ERA), looking to build on Skubal’s momentum and keep the Tigers in position to advance. Cleveland counters with Tanner Bibbee (12-11, 4.24 ERA), who has been streaky but capable of shutting down lineups when locked in.
If Detroit can string together more offense behind Mize, they’ll be in position to finish the job and punch their ticket to the ALDS.
Further Reading:
Detroit Tigers vs Guardians Game 2: Wild Card Must-Win 10/01/2025 – Detroit Sports Nation
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Richard Knight
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