Sep 25, 2025, Posted by: Ava Bialy
Game preview and stakes
On Wednesday, September 24, the Detroit Tigers head to Progressive Field to face the Cleveland Guardians in what may be the final swing of the AL Central. Both clubs sit at 85‑72, but the Guardians entered the day holding the season‑series tiebreaker after a dramatic 5‑2 win the night before. For Detroit, that means a win isn’t enough – they must finish at least one game ahead in the standings to clinch the division.
The Guardians have staged a near‑miraculous comeback this month. Ten and a half games behind the Tigers at the start of September, they have gone 17‑5 over their last 22 outings, reclaiming first place for the first time since April 22. Their recent surge includes a six‑run sixth inning against Detroit that flipped a 2‑0 deficit into a 5‑2 victory.
By contrast, the Tigers are wrestling with a severe slump. After a promising stretch earlier in the season, they have gone 1‑10 in their last eleven games, including a winless six‑game road trip. Still, Detroit’s home record remains respectable at 46‑35, suggesting they could still leverage the familiar surroundings to halt the slide.
Key factors: pitching, offense, and numbers
The pitching duel pits two seasoned starters against each other. Jack Flaherty (8‑14, 4.60 ERA) will take the mound for Detroit. Although his overall numbers this year are underwhelming, Flaherty boasts a career 2.21 ERA against Cleveland, hinting at a possible edge in a high‑pressure environment.
Cleveland counters with Tanner Bibee, who has been a steady presence for the Guardians this season. Bibee’s ability to mix fastballs with off‑speed pitches has helped keep the Tigers’ lineup off balance in recent matchups. If he can maintain his composure, the Guardians’ staff—currently sitting at a 3.69 ERA and 1.27 WHIP—will have the advantage.
Offensively, the Tigers rely heavily on Riley Greene, who has already collected 153 hits and driven in 110 runs. The middle of Detroit’s order—Gleyber Torres and Spencer Torkelson—adds depth with a combined 265 hits and 152 RBIs. However, the team’s overall batting average of .226 indicates they may struggle to generate consistent run support.
The Guardians, despite a negative run differential for the season, have managed to stay 13 games over .500. Their 621 runs scored and .226 team batting average mirror Detroit’s output, but Cleveland’s pitching depth gives them a slight edge. Their ability to win close games—exemplified by the Tuesday comeback—could prove decisive.
Betting markets reflect Cleveland’s slight advantage, listing the Guardians as -126 favorites with a 7.5‑run over/under. The 6:40 PM EDT start time ensures prime‑time visibility, and the winner will likely take a commanding step toward the AL Central crown as the regular season heads into its final stretch.
Author
Ava Bialy
I'm a passionate artist and art enthusiast. I enjoy exploring different visual art forms, from painting to sculpting, and I love learning about the history of art and its impact on society. I'm always looking for new ways to express myself and to share my creativity with the world.