Detroit Tigers Reach AL Wild Card After Historic Late-Season Collapse

The Detroit Tigers have clinched the sixth and final American League playoff spot with an 87-75 record despite a historic late-season collapse, losing 13 of their last 16 games and relinquishing a 14-game division lead to the Cleveland Guardians. The Tigers face the Guardians in a best-of-three Wild Card Series starting in Cleveland, where ace pitcher Tarik Skubal will start against Cleveland's Gavin Williams. This matchup is charged with rivalry, as Cleveland not only won the AL Central division but also dominated the Tigers in recent head-to-head games. Detroit's postseason hopes hinge on overcoming their regular season struggles and key contributions from players like Riley Greene, Kerry Carpenter, and Spencer Torkelson. The winner will advance to face the Seattle Mariners in the AL Division Series. Despite the Tigers' challenges, including a poor September record, the team and fans remain hopeful for playoff success against their familiar foes.