The stage is set for a thrilling conclusion to the AL Division Series as the 2025 Tigers and Guardians face off in a winner-take-all Game 3 on Thursday at Progressive Field, following a gripping September saga that saw Cleveland complete a historic comeback against Detroit for the AL Central crown.
Both teams are poised for elimination in what promises to be a tension-filled finale, with a spot in Seattle on the line to compete against the Mariners in the AL Division Series beginning Saturday at T-Mobile Park.
Cleveland’s resurgence is noteworthy, as the Guardians are only the fourth team in history to force a Game 3 in a best-of-three Wild Card Series after losing the opening game, following in the footsteps of the 2020 Athletics and Padres, while the 2022 Mets and 2024 Brewers fell short in similar circumstances.
Historically, teams have fared close to even in winner-take-all games at home, with a record of 64-66. The matchup presents added intrigue as the Tigers’ Jack Flaherty, who has past postseason experience, faces off against the Guardians’ rookie pitcher, Slade Cecconi, in what is sure to be a tightly contested game.
Flaherty, who finished the regular season with an 8-15 record and a 4.64 ERA, will be making his postseason debut with the Tigers after contributing to the Dodgers’ World Series run last year. He expressed a deep desire for success with his current team, emphasizing the motivation that comes with playing in the playoffs.
Cecconi, on the other hand, enters his first playoff start with a steady performance record this season, boasting a 4.30 ERA. Acquired from Arizona in December, Cecconi has demonstrated resilience and focus, treating every outing with play-off intensity, which is crucial in such high-stress situations.
What adds to the excitement of Game 3 is the lineup adjustments made by both teams in response to the pressure of the moment. Tigers’ manager A.J. Hinch made notable changes, placing Gleyber Torres at the leadoff spot for the decisive game, moving Parker Meadows down the order, while Wenceel Pérez will occupy the third position.
For the Guardians, they are maintaining a relatively stable lineup, making only a minor adjustment by moving rookie Chase DeLauter into the fifth spot after he contributed during pivotal moments in the series, while Bo Naylor will slot into the seventh position.
Both bullpens are expected to play a critical role, especially if the starting pitchers are not able to go deep into the game. Hinch had to go to his bullpen early in Game 2, which adds an element of unpredictability heading into Game 3, especially considering the importance of each pitching change in a win-or-go-home situation.
On the Guardians’ side, they too leaned heavily on their relievers in Game 2, and the effectiveness of their bullpen could prove decisive in their effort to secure a series win. Key pitchers like Erik Sabrowski and Hunter Gaddis are expected to make appearances, with the possibility of Joey Cantillo being utilized to provide length if necessary.
In terms of player health, the Tigers are in a positive position with Spencer Torkelson cleared to play despite concerns about a foot injury after taking a foul ball in Game 2. His presence in the lineup is crucial as Detroit aims to capitalize on every scoring opportunity.
The series has already produced significant drama, with Cleveland’s offense previously showing its capability of explosive innings against Detroit, scoring five runs in a postseason inning for the third time since 2013, all against the Tigers.
As fans gear up for the critical match on Thursday at 1 p.m. ET, they can tune in via ESPN to witness what promises to be an exhilarating contest, filled with nerves and determination as the Tigers and Guardians fight for survival in this season’s playoffs.
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