CLEVELAND — The Detroit Tigers faced a challenging day at the plate during Game 2 of their AL Wild Card Series against the Cleveland Guardians, suffering a 6-1 defeat that leveled the best-of-three matchup. Despite numerous opportunities, the Tigers struggled mightily with runners in scoring position, going a dismal 1 for 15 and leaving a franchise postseason-record 15 runners stranded.
The lone hit with runners in scoring position came from Javier Baez in the fourth inning, allowing All-Star outfielder Riley Greene to score. “We were one swing away, one mistake from blowing that thing open,” said Greene, emphasizing the thin line that often defines success in baseball.
As the game wore on, the Guardians capitalized on their opportunities, scoring five runs in the eighth inning against relievers Troy Melton and Brant Hurter. This offensive surge marked a turning point, allowing Cleveland to pull away and secure the victory.
Detroit’s struggles with leaving runners on base were historically poor, making them the first team since the 2009 Los Angeles Angels to strand 15 runners in a postseason game. The Tigers’ previous high for stranding runners in the playoffs was 14, recorded during Game 3 of the 1984 World Series against San Diego.
Detroit’s chances against the Guardians have continually eluded them. In their last three games against Cleveland, including this series, the team has hit a mere .079 with runners in scoring position. Manager A.J. Hinch acknowledged the missed opportunities, noting, “Obviously, they made the most of their opportunities, and we left 15 guys on. It was a hard-fought game, and the score doesn’t really indicate how close the game was.”
Despite the disappointing outcome, the Tigers’ pitching staff performed well initially, with Casey Mize, Tyler Holton, and Kyle Finnegan effectively holding Cleveland scoreless through the first seven innings. The tide turned when Cleveland capitalized on their chances in the eighth, including a crucial solo homer from Brayan Rocchio and a decisive three-run shot by Bo Naylor.
In a moment that could have altered the game’s trajectory, Baez was initially credited with a two-run single, but a video review overturned the play, keeping the game tied until the eighth. The close nature of the call showcased the fine margins of postseason baseball, as Hinch noted, “I don’t mind that at all. It’s just McKinstry is faster than Dingler in going two bases.”
Although Greene dealt with disappointment after being pinch-hit for in the seventh inning, he expressed trust in Hinch’s decisions and praised his teammates, underscoring the resilience needed as they look to rebound in the next game. “We all thought he was safe. We’ve been going from first to third all year, and we’re not going to change now,” he affirmed.
As the series continues, the Tigers will need to elevate their performance with runners in scoring position and harness the defensive efforts that characterized their early-game success. With every game providing an opportunity to learn and adjust, Detroit remains determined to rise to the occasion.