To Claim Victory in the AL Central: Actions for Tigers to Outshine Guardians
Detroit Tigers and Cleveland Guardians Battle for Playoff Spot
In the heart of the American League (AL), two teams are making waves - the Detroit Tigers and the Cleveland Guardians. As of August 24, 2025, the Tigers hold a record of 70-52, putting them among the favourites to represent the AL in the World Series this year [1]. The Guardians, on the other hand, are fighting hard to secure a postseason berth, with a .500 record of 64-64, placing them third in the AL Central division, trailing the division leader by 12.5 games [4][1].
The Tigers' roster is brimming with talent, led by the promising Tarik Skubal, who is well on his way to back-to-back AL Cy Young Awards [1]. Skubal's fellow pitcher, Jack Flaherty, has also been a productive No. 2 starter for the Tigers this season [1]. However, both Skubal and Flaherty have surpassed 120 innings pitched this season, raising concerns about their workload and potential for injury [1]. Tigers' manager, AJ Hinch, should consider limiting the outings of Skubal and Flaherty to certain pitch counts to preserve them for the postseason [1].
Gleyber Torres, another star on the Tigers' roster, has emerged as a key contributor to the team's offensive attack [1]. Torres' production at the plate was a significant factor in the New York Yankees' World Series appearance in 2024 [1]. Manager Hinch should consider batting Torres at the leadoff position down the stretch to take advantage of his offensive abilities [1]. Torres was one of four Tigers who started in the All-Star Game this summer [1].
Meanwhile, the Tigers are facing a decision about who will be their center fielder, with Javy Baez and Parker Meadows in contention for the position [1]. Colt Keith and Zack McKinstry have excelled and deserve time as starters for Detroit [1].
On the other side of the field, the Cleveland Guardians are relying on key players such as José Ramírez, a significant offensive contributor [3]. Emmanuel Clase, the team's closer, has recently been placed on disciplinary paid leave amid an MLB investigation, impacting his role [5]. Other notable contributors include Gabriel Arias, Kyle Manzardo, Brayan Rocchio, and Carlos Santana [3].
The Guardians' pitching staff has an ERA around 3.83, ranking mid-tier in MLB [4]. The team has experienced mixed results recently, including streaks of losing and winning games, reflecting a somewhat inconsistent season [5].
As the race for the AL playoffs heats up, both the Tigers and the Guardians are showing their mettle. An injury to either Skubal or Flaherty could significantly impact the Tigers' World Series chances [1]. Meanwhile, Cleveland's star, Jose Ramirez, is in contention for another finish on the AL MVP ballot [1]. The Cleveland Guardians have been making the conversation in the American League Central [1].
References:
- ESPN
- MLB Standings
- Cleveland Guardians Roster
- Baseball-Reference
- Cleveland.com
The Tigers' pitchers, Tarik Skubal and Jack Flaherty, have been instrumental in the team's playoff push but their high innings count might lead to injuries, posing a threat to Detroit's World Series aspirations. Amidst the rumors surrounding Emmanuel Clase's disciplinary leave, José Ramírez continues to be a key offensive player for the Cleveland Guardians, making them a formidable contender in the AL playoff race.
