Mariners, Tigers open ALDS at T-Mobile Park Saturday evening

The 2025 MLB playoffs feature a key ALDS matchup between the Seattle Mariners and the Detroit Tigers, with the Mariners hosting the first two games at T-Mobile Park starting Saturday. The Tigers advanced by defeating the Cleveland Guardians in a decisive wild-card series game, with Jack Flaherty expected to start for Detroit in that elimination game. The Tigers face pitching challenges for Game 1 of the ALDS, as several starters are unlikely to pitch on short rest, leaving options like Troy Melton or a bullpen game on the table. Scheduling efforts have been made to avoid conflicts with other local sports events, including Sounders and Seahawks games, given the proximity of the venues. The winner of the Mariners-Tigers series will advance to the AL Championship Series to face the winner of the Blue Jays-Yankees matchup. Additionally, baseball history was made on a recent Thursday with three winner-takes-all playoff games occurring on the same day.