Go back to the MLB trade deadline, and things weren’t looking good for the Tigers. They were in 4th in the AL Central, which was basically last since they’re in the same division as the historically bad White Sox. They were 52-57, 14 games behind the Guardians for first. Things weren’t much better for their chances at the Wild Card, as they were eight games back of the finale spot. They were dead in the water and only had a one percent chance to make the playoffs.
However fast forward to today, and the Tigers are seemingly back from the dead. Over the past few months, the Tigers have been one of the hottest teams in baseball. They have gone 31-17, improving their record to 83-74. Catapulting themselves in the standings, and are currently in the second Wild Card spot. Drastically improving their playoff chances to 69.9%. However, what is the reason for this sudden turnaround?
Tarik Skubal and the Bullpen
When this team was struggling, one of the names that was floating to be moved was Tarik Skubal. Skubal is having a career season plus with one year of control left, he could’ve brought in a huge return. However, the Tigers decided to hold on to him, and it paid off. Since the deadline, he’s pitched to a 3.23 ERA over 55 innings with 67 strikeouts. The Tigers are also 6-4 in the games where Skubal takes the mound. He’s pitched like the ace the Tigers needed him to, and this performance, when the games matter most, will help him in his Cy Young candidacy.
Skubal isn’t the only pitcher that has helped the Tigers get back on track. The bullpen has been elite for the Tigers all season. Specifically, Tyler Holton and Will Vest, have been the most reliable arms out of the pen, as both of them have ERA under three. Both of them have played a huge role in getting the ball to closer Jason Foley. These three have taken the pressure off the rest of the staff. All the starters need to do is get to the 7th, then you can have these three take over. Not to mention the bullpen is going to be getting a big addition with the Tigers calling up Jackson Jobe. The second-best prospect in the Tigers system is known for his fastball and slider combination that could be deadly coming out of the pen.
The Tigers Young Offensive Core
Since the rebuild began, the Tigers have been taking plays out of the Cubs and Astros playbook. Building a core of young position players in hopes of a dynasty. They even went out and got the Astros’ old manager AJ Hinch. Now after years of building, the farm system is finally produced. The face of offense is without question, Riley Greene. He’s slashing .262/.351/.485 good for a .835 OPS with 24 home runs and 72 RBIs. Greene’s offensive production has been a godsend for the Tigers. However, he is not the only impact bat in that lineup. They also have Kerry Carpenter whose been one of their prolific power hitters. So far this season he’s slugging a team-leading .601.
However, the best part about having young players is there isn’t pressure on this team. There aren’t huge expectations for this team. They weren’t even expected to be in this spot. The fact that they’re even in this spot is a major accomplishment. So anything they do from here is just gravy. Without the outside pressure, this team can play like they have been. The style that has brought them from being dead in the water to a potential playoff spot.
Thanks for reading! Credit for my feature image to Scott Taetsch. You can find more MLB content at Belly Up Sports and follow me on Twitter/X.
