Tigers Surprising Playoff Run Against Guardians

The Chicago Cubs face challenges in improving their roster for the 2025 season, particularly with player contracts and no-trade clauses complicating potential trades. Dansby Swanson's performance has been inconsistent, with a season batting average of .242, 16 home runs, and 66 RBIs, raising questions about his value relative to his $27 million salary. Meanwhile, the Cubs' rookie relief pitcher Porter Hodge has emerged as a promising talent, finishing his season with a 1.88 ERA and nine saves, making him a potential closer for 2025. On the other hand, the Detroit Tigers have surprised many by advancing in the playoffs, driven by their young core, including rookie Colt Keith, who had a solid regular season despite postseason struggles. The Tigers' acquisition of shortstop Trey Sweeney, a key defensive player, showcases their strong rebuilding efforts, although his offensive performance will be critical moving forward. Lastly, rookie pitcher Spencer Arrighetti of the Astros had notable contributions despite a challenging season, ranking among the top rookies due to his strikeout ability during a crucial stretch.