Detroit Tigers Seek Colt Keith Return for ALDS Amid Wild Card Series Against Cleveland Guardians

The Detroit Tigers and Cleveland Guardians are facing off in a pivotal AL Wild Card Game 3, with both teams adjusting their lineups and strategies for this do-or-die game. The Guardians kept the same lineup that helped them secure a 6-1 victory in Game 2, highlighting rookie Chase DeLauter's move up the batting order and the team's recent surge in home runs, a key factor given their usual low power numbers. The Tigers, meanwhile, are anchored by Javier Baez's strong postseason performance and have been strategically limiting the Guardians' key hitters. A significant development for the Tigers is the hopeful return of third baseman Colt Keith from right rib cage inflammation; although he missed the Wild Card series, recent progress in his recovery suggests he could be available for the ALDS should the Tigers advance. Keith's potential return would bolster the Tigers' lineup, where Zach McKinstry has been filling in at third base during Keith's absence. Both teams recognize the importance of timely home runs, as key players on both sides have yet to homer in the series, which could be decisive in determining who moves on to face the Seattle Mariners in the ALDS.