Detroit Tigers vs Cleveland Guardians Picks and Predictions October 9th 2024

Guardians, Tigers on the defensive ahead of pivotal Game 3

Comerica Park’s vast outfield has taken center stage as the Cleveland Guardians and Detroit Tigers gear up for Game 3 of their tightly contested American League Division Series (ALDS). With the series tied 1-1, both teams are emphasizing defense and strategic pitching to gain an edge in this pivotal matchup.

Game 1 and 2 Recap: Contrasting Victories

The Guardians opened the series with a dominant 7-0 win in Game 1, flexing their offensive firepower. However, the Tigers responded in Game 2 with a dramatic 3-0 victory, fueled by Kerry Carpenter’s game-changing three-run home run in the ninth inning. The swing came off Cleveland’s All-Star closer Emmanuel Clase, evening the series and sending momentum Detroit’s way.

While the Tigers celebrated Carpenter’s clutch hit, it was the defensive highlight from Cleveland rookie Jhonkensy Noel that stood out earlier in Game 2. Noel cut down fellow rookie Justyn-Henry Malloy’s attempt to stretch a single into a double, a play that kept the game close and emphasized the importance of defense in these high-stakes matchups.

“Defense also wins you games,” Noel noted after the game. “If you miss a play on defense, that can cost you a game.”

Defensive Preparations Key to Success

Both teams are clearly aware of how crucial defense will be in the spacious Comerica Park outfield. During practice on Tuesday, the Guardians focused on outfield drills aimed at cutting down angles and preventing extra-base hits.

Steven Kwan, Cleveland’s two-time Gold Glove winner, highlighted the importance of finding the right balance between aggression and caution in the outfield. “You want to make sure you’re cutting down those angles while at the same time not being too aggressive and letting the ball get by you.”

Given the stakes of Game 3, the defensive focus is no surprise. In a series that has seen both offensive outbursts and pitching duels, a single defensive lapse could determine the outcome.

Pitching Matchup: Cobb Returns, Tigers’ Starter Uncertain

Cleveland will send veteran right-hander Alex Cobb (2-1, 2.76 ERA) to the mound for Game 3, marking his first appearance since September 1. Cobb has been recovering from a blister on his middle finger, but his history against the Tigers is solid, with a 2.91 ERA in eight career starts. The Guardians are hoping Cobb’s experience and effectiveness will help stymie Detroit’s offense.

On the Tigers’ side, manager A.J. Hinch has yet to name a starter for Game 3, opting for a flexible approach. “We’ve got a lot of options,” Hinch said. “Ten of the 12 pitchers we have are going to be available, and we’re going to use them.”

Detroit could turn to one of its reliable left-handers—Tyler Holton, Sean Guenther, or Brant Hurter—especially considering Cleveland’s lefty-heavy lineup. Holton, who struggled in Game 1, might be looking for redemption, while Guenther and Hurter have both been steady contributors. However, Hinch is playing his cards close to the chest, planning to inform Cleveland’s manager, Stephen Vogt, later on Tuesday.

Hinch’s strategy of keeping the Guardians guessing until the last minute could prove advantageous. By withholding their starter’s identity, Detroit forces Cleveland to prepare for multiple scenarios, making lineup decisions more complex.

MLB EXPERT PICKS, PREDICTION & BETTING TIPS

Offensive Adjustments: Guardians Seek More Production

After being held to just three hits in Game 2, the Guardians need to find their offensive rhythm if they hope to take control of the series. One bright spot for Cleveland has been rookie Brayan Rocchio, who became the first player in franchise history to record a double in each of his first two postseason games.

While Rocchio’s performance has been encouraging, the Guardians will need more contributions across the lineup. Their explosive showing in Game 1 feels like a distant memory, and the Tigers’ pitching in Game 2 highlighted the challenges Cleveland’s offense faces going forward.

Tigers’ Offense Rolling: Malloy, Meadows, and Vierling Shine

In contrast, the Tigers’ offense has been more consistent, with several players stepping up at key moments. Justyn-Henry Malloy has been especially hot, going 4-for-6 in the postseason, including two hits in Game 2. Parker Meadows continues to be a reliable presence, hitting safely in all four of Detroit’s playoff games.

Matt Vierling’s four times reaching base in Game 2 further underscores the depth of Detroit’s lineup. This kind of production throughout the order will be crucial if the Tigers hope to keep pace with Cleveland and put pressure on Cobb in Game 3.

Strategic Considerations: Managers Look to Outmaneuver Each Other

Both teams are keenly aware that the margin for error is slim in a tied series. A.J. Hinch’s decision to delay naming a Game 3 starter suggests a tactical approach designed to keep Cleveland off-balance. The flexibility of the Tigers’ bullpen could prove crucial, allowing them to mix and match pitchers based on how the game unfolds.

For Cleveland, Stephen Vogt faces the challenge of reinvigorating his offense while maintaining the defensive excellence that has kept them competitive. Cobb’s return adds stability to their rotation, but the Guardians will need to make offensive adjustments quickly if they want to avoid another shutout.

What to Expect in Game 3

With both teams tied at 1-1, Game 3 is set up to be a pivotal contest. Comerica Park’s spacious outfield and the emphasis on defensive play will likely come into play, especially as both clubs understand the importance of avoiding mistakes.

Cleveland’s ability to bounce back offensively will be a major factor, while Detroit’s bullpen flexibility gives them options. The game may well be decided by which team executes better defensively and capitalizes on timely hitting.

In a series where every pitch matters, the winner of Game 3 will gain a crucial advantage heading into the remainder of the ALDS.