The team from the northern Ohio area (88-74) and the squad from the Motor City (87-75) encountered each other six times in the concluding couple weeks of the regular season, and they are poised to clash once more in the initial round of the playoffs. The Cleveland-based team orchestrated an impressive rally to secure their division title in major league baseball history, overcoming a significant deficit of 15 ½ games to claim the division crown. The Detroit-based team managed to secure a playoff berth via a wild card spot, presenting them with an opportunity to rectify their previous struggles.
The Cleveland team prevailed in the regular season series, securing eight victories compared to the Detroit team’s five, and they emerged victorious in five of the six contests between the two teams during the month of September.
Below is the schedule for the initial playoff round featuring the Detroit team versus the Cleveland team:
|
Game 1 |
Tues., Sept. 30 |
1:08 p.m. ET |
ESPN |
|
Game 2 |
Weds., Oct. 1 |
1:08 p.m. ET |
ESPN |
|
Game 3 |
Thurs., Oct. 2 |
TBD |
Where to view Game 1
Date: Tuesday, Sept. 1 | Time: 1:08 p.m. ET
Location: Progressive Field (Cleveland)
TV channel: ESPN | Live stream: Fubo (try for free)
Probable pitchers: TBA
Odds: DET -150 | CLE +123 (via DraftKings)
Here’s essential information regarding the Detroit team and the Cleveland team as they head into the initial playoff round.
Initial Playoff Round storylines
Tigers: The central theme revolves around overcoming their prior setbacks. The Detroit team maintained a double-digit advantage in their division as late as the third day of September. Witnessing that advantage diminish gradually might have negatively impacted their mental fortitude, potentially triggering a downward spiral. As they move into the playoffs, they have a fresh opportunity. Every team begins with a level playing field. It is advantageous that the Detroit team possesses a strong candidate for the league’s best pitcher award, expected to start in Game 1. However, the Cleveland team managed to win two games in September when that pitcher started.
Guardians: Despite the Detroit team possessing that aforementioned pitcher, the Cleveland team arguably presents a more formidable pitching rotation in this series. The expected Game 1 starter for the Cleveland team boasts an impressive earned run average of 2.18 across his most recent 12 starts. Another Cleveland pitcher has an earned run average of 1.30 in his last four starts, and a rookie pitcher has showcased remarkable performance in his initial seven starts. The Cleveland team statistically represents the weakest offensive unit among the playoff contenders, prompting them to prioritize low-scoring games and strategic run creation.
