UPDATE: The Detroit Tigers are gearing up for a crucial Wild Card Series against the Cleveland Guardians, starting Tuesday, October 3, 2023, at Progressive Field in Cleveland. This best-of-three series follows Cleveland’s dramatic last-day victory to clinch the AL Central title, marking a thrilling end to the regular season.
The Tigers, who finished with a record of 87-75, faced a tough loss to the Boston Red Sox on Sunday, falling 4-3 and missing out on the division crown. “We’re going to Cleveland, which is where we just came from, and we’ll get to work,” said Tigers manager A.J. Hinch. His focus is now squarely on preparing for a familiar opponent.
Cleveland, finishing the regular season at 88-74, claimed the season series against Detroit 8-5, winning five of the last six matchups. This remarkable turnaround saw the Guardians overcome a 15.5-game deficit to capture the division, making this Wild Card matchup even more significant.
Tigers catcher Dillon Dingler emphasized the importance of starting fresh. “It’s a clean slate now. We’re not going to worry about anything that’s happened. We’re going to move forward and we’re going to have a lot of fun,” he stated, highlighting the psychological reset necessary for postseason play.
In preparation for the playoffs, Hinch made strategic decisions, opting to rest key players, including ace Tarik Skubal, who was slated to start the regular-season finale. “I went back and forth on whether to go all-out for the division crown,” Hinch explained, underscoring the importance of player health as they enter the postseason.
Skubal, who has shown strong performance with only two earned runs allowed over 12 innings in his last two starts against the Guardians, is ready for the challenge. “It’s the postseason. This is what you prepare for,” he asserted, reflecting the urgency and excitement surrounding the team’s playoff aspirations.
As the series approaches, both teams are acutely aware of the stakes involved. The Tigers must harness their past encounters with the Guardians while remaining focused and adaptable. “We’re going to have to turn over every rock and make sure we’re prepared,” Hinch added, emphasizing the need for thorough preparation against a team they know well.
Fans can expect a gripping showdown as the Tigers and Guardians face off in this highly anticipated Wild Card Series. With both teams’ playoff hopes on the line, every pitch and play will be magnified.
Stay tuned for updates as the action unfolds, and prepare for a thrilling postseason ahead!
