Tigers Lead AL Central by One Game Ahead Guardians Series

The Detroit Tigers currently lead the American League Central division by one game but have been struggling recently, losing six straight and nine of their last ten games, while the Cleveland Guardians have surged with a 10-game winning streak and 15 wins in their last 17 games. Despite the Tigers' recent decline, manager A.J. Hinch remains confident, emphasizing that the team controls its own destiny and is not conceding defeat. Hinch has highlighted young outfielder Riley Greene as a potential catalyst to reverse the team's fortunes, noting his promising underlying metrics and recent improved performance despite Greene's historical struggles against the Guardians. The Tigers face a crucial three-game series against Cleveland starting Tuesday, with ace pitcher Tarik Skubal expected to start Game 1, followed by Jack Flaherty in Game 2. Hinch's optimistic message frames the series as an opportunity to reclaim their position and secure a playoff spot, reminding fans and players that the team remains first place and must capitalize on this critical juncture. The coming series against the hot Guardians will be pivotal in deciding the AL Central title and the Tigers' postseason fate.