Tigers Confirm Skubal Postseason Start, Rotation Decisions Expected

The Detroit Tigers are heading into the 2025 postseason with Tarik Skubal as their undisputed ace and likely Game 1 starter, while the number-two starter role behind him is expected to be filled by Jack Flaherty, despite some inconsistency in his performance this season. Manager A.J. Hinch has several options for the rest of the rotation, including Casey Mize and Charlie Morton, and may adjust the rotation and bullpen roles based on matchups during the playoffs, potentially moving one starter to a bulk reliever role for the Division Series. The Tigers' bullpen, bolstered by recent trade deadline acquisitions like Kyle Finnegan and Rafael Montero, finished August with a strong 2.89 ERA, second-best in MLB, but concerns remain about their low strikeout rates and Fielding Independent Pitching, which could pose risks in October. Hinch's approach to pitching in the postseason is expected to be flexible, combining a more stable rotation than last year with strategic matchup-based decisions to maximize effectiveness. Overall, the Tigers' depth in both starting pitching and bullpen arms gives them a versatile and competitive edge as they aim to leverage their strong regular season into a successful playoff run.