There is a sense of cautious optimism in the Guardians‘ clubhouse following their 7-0 win over the Tigers in Game 1 of the American League Division Series. The team’s confidence has been strong all season, and this victory only boosted it further. Despite Detroit’s “pitching chaos” approach, the Guardians’ hitters performed exceptionally well when it mattered most, and their bullpen exceeded expectations. However, they are aware that they can’t get ahead of themselves with Tigers ace Tarik Skubal set to start Game 2.
The Guardians understand the importance of staying vigilant. They know that even with momentum on their side, one game can change everything if Skubal performs at his best. If the Tigers manage to steal a win at Progressive Field before heading back to Comerica Park for their first playoff game there since 2014, it could completely alter the outcome of this series.
On the other hand, despite suffering their first loss of the postseason in Game 1 after two consecutive wins against Houston in the AL Wild Card Series, the Tigers remain focused on fighting until the end. Left-hander Tyler Holton expressed confidence that they will bounce back from this defeat.
Game 2 is scheduled for Monday at 4:08 p.m. ET and will be broadcasted on TBS, truTV, and Max. Viewers can also watch all games on MLB.TV with authentication from a participating Pay TV provider.
In terms of starting pitchers for Game 2, Tarik Skubal will take the mound for Detroit while Matthew Boyd will make his first career postseason start for Cleveland against his former team.
Both teams have solid bullpens ready to support their starters after they leave the game. The Tigers had heavy bullpen usage in Game 1 but should have everyone available for Game 2 after an off-day on Sunday. Cleveland’s plan is to replicate what worked well in Game 1 by relying on a strong bullpen performance once again.
As far as injuries go, Javier Báez is out for the season due to right hip surgery for Detroit while Cleveland has a fully healthy roster now that Alex Cobb has been cleared to join them.
In terms of players who are performing well recently, Parker Meadows has hit safely in all three postseason games so far for Detroit while Lane Thomas made an impact with a three-run homer in his playoff debut for Cleveland.
Lastly, it’s worth noting that both teams are among MLB’s youngest squads this season according to Elias statistics.