Tigers Take 1-0 Lead in AL Wild Card Series After Skubal's 14-Strikeout Masterclass

Skubal's dominant performance sets the stage for Detroit's victory. The Tigers look to build momentum in Game 2, while the Guardians aim to even the series.

, and ASMedia

2025 September 30 . 10:55 PM

1 min read

In this image I can see a group of people are playing the baseball, they wore white color helmets... — In this image I can see a group of people are playing the baseball, they wore white color helmets and dresses. On the left side few people are sitting and observing this game. At the back side there are trees, at the top it is the sky.

Tigers Take 1-0 Lead in AL Wild Card Series After Skubal's 14-Strikeout Masterclass

The Detroit Tigers have taken a 1-0 lead in the AL Wild Card Series against the Cleveland Guardians, thanks to a dominant performance by Tarik Skubal. The Tigers can now advance to the AL Division Series with a win in Game 2.

Skubal tied Detroit's postseason record for strikeouts in a single game, fanning 14 batters in Game 1. This was a career high for the pitcher, who was dominant throughout the contest. The Tigers' victory was not easy, as the Guardians tied the game in the fourth inning on a controversial play at the plate.

Detroit scored the go-ahead run in the seventh inning on a safety squeeze by Zach McKinstry. The Tigers held on to win 2-1, with Will Vest securing the final four outs, including a crucial out at home plate in the ninth inning. Jose Ramírez was left stranded between third base and home plate, ending Cleveland's threat.

Tarik Skubal's impressive performance set the stage for Detroit's victory. The Tigers will look to build on this momentum as they aim to secure a win in Game 2 and advance to the AL Division Series. Despite the loss, the Guardians remain in contention and will look to even the series in the next game.