Detroit Tigers at Cleveland Guardians Picks and Predictions for Thursday, October 2, 2025

By: David Anicetti Published 10/02/2025, 12:05 AM ET

The Detroit Tigers and Cleveland Guardians play a winner-take-all Game 3 in the AL Wild Card at Progressive Field on Thursday. The series is tied 1–1 after Cleveland won 6–1 on Wednesday in Game 2. The first pitch is scheduled for TBD ET on ESPN. Check out our free MLB picks.

Detroit Tigers Preview

Detroit could not build on its Game 1 win, managing only one run in Game 2. The Tigers had seven hits but went 1-for-8 with runners in scoring position and struck out nine times. Riley Greene and Javier Báez each had two hits, but the middle of the order did not produce. Strikeouts have been an issue across the first two games, with 22 combined in the series.

Jack Flaherty gets the nod on the mound in Game 3. The right-hander brings postseason experience and will be counted on to pitch deep after Detroit used several relievers on Wednesday. The Tigers’ bullpen has been strong in this series, allowing just one run in four innings, but a solid start from Flaherty is important. Detroit also needs better contact at the plate to avoid wasting scoring chances.

Cleveland Guardians Preview

Cleveland’s offense came alive in Game 2 with nine hits and six runs. José Ramírez set the tone with two hits, while Gabriel Arias and Kyle Manzardo drove in runs. The Guardians struck out only five times and looked more patient at the plate. That shift at the plate could carry over into the deciding game.

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Slade Cecconi will start for Cleveland. The young right-hander will aim to follow Wednesday’s plan: get ahead in counts and hand the game to a bullpen that has been flawless in this series. Guardians relievers have combined for six scoreless innings across the two games. Playing at home and with momentum, Cleveland has the advantage if Cecconi delivers a solid start.

Detroit Tigers vs. Cleveland Guardians Prediction

This game comes down to starting pitching. Flaherty has the track record, but Cleveland has the better lineup form and home-field advantage. Expect another close, low-scoring matchup where one big hit decides it. Final Score Prediction: Cleveland Guardians win 4–3.