UPDATE: The stage is set for an electrifying Game 1 of the American League Division Series as the Seattle Mariners announce George Kirby as their starting pitcher, while the Detroit Tigers will counter with rookie sensation Troy Melton. This pivotal matchup kicks off on October 7, 2023, at T-Mobile Park in Seattle.
The Mariners, coming off a bye, are poised to leverage their robust pitching lineup, with Luis Castillo scheduled to take the mound in Game 2 against Tigers ace Tarik Skubal. The Tigers face a critical challenge, having exhausted their pitching options in the wild-card series against the Cleveland Guardians earlier this week.
Game 1 is crucial for both teams, especially for the Tigers, who are slim on options. Skubal, Casey Mize, and Jack Flaherty all featured heavily in their previous series, leaving Melton with the spotlight as he steps into the postseason. Mariners manager Dan Wilson confirmed that Logan Gilbert could be the starter for Game 3, depending on the health of All-Star Bryan Woo, who is currently dealing with a pectoral injury.
“We’re going to continue to see how he feels today when he gets here for the workout,” Wilson stated. “We’ll make those decisions later today regarding his health and the roster.”
Both Kirby and Castillo have demonstrated exceptional performance, allowing just six runs across their last three regular-season starts. Their playoff experience from 2022, where they allowed a mere three runs over 22.3 innings, adds to the Mariners’ confidence as they prepare for this critical matchup.
The emotional stakes are high for the Mariners, who aim to capitalize on their home-field advantage. T-Mobile Park has been a fortress for them, known for its run-suppressing properties, making this a daunting venue for the Tigers. If Woo is cleared to participate, the Mariners may carry an unprecedented five starting pitchers in this best-of-five series.
The Tigers are also evaluating key players, including outfielder Matt Vierling, sidelined since August 9 due to an oblique strain, and infielder Colt Keith, who has been on the injured list with rib cage inflammation. Both players participated in live batting practice on Friday, raising hopes for their availability.
Melton, who transitioned from Double-A to Triple-A earlier this season, brings a 2.76 ERA in 45.2 innings pitched. However, he has not thrown more than 50 pitches in a game since mid-August, raising questions about his endurance for this high-stakes matchup.
“We’re excited to get him normal prep, normal routine,” said Tigers manager A.J. Hinch. “It’s going to be somewhat abbreviated, just given how we’ve used him over the last couple of months.”
The urgency is palpable as both teams gear up for this critical playoff opener, and fans are eagerly anticipating what could become an unforgettable postseason showdown. Stay tuned as we provide live updates on this developing story.
