Detroit Tigers vs. Cleveland Guardians Picks & Predictions for Wednesday, October 1, 2025

By: David Anicetti Published 10/01/2025, 12:00 AM ET

The Detroit Tigers and Cleveland Guardians continue their best-of-three AL Wild Card series at Progressive Field on Wednesday at 1:00 PM ET on ESPN. Detroit leads the series 1–0 after Tuesday’s 2–1 win behind Tarik Skubal’s dominant outing. Hit a homer and win with our free MLB Picks.

Detroit Tigers Preview

Detroit got just enough at the plate in Game 1, producing five hits and two runs. Spencer Torkelson and Zach McKinstry drove in the only runs, while Riley Greene doubled and scored. Despite striking out 13 times and going just 1-for-8 with runners in scoring position, the Tigers capitalized on key chances early and late.

On the mound, Skubal was the difference. The left-hander struck out 14 over 7.2 innings, allowing just three hits and one run. Will Vest closed the door for the save with 1.1 scoreless innings. With the bullpen well rested for anything that might happen in Game 2, Detroit turns to Casey Mize, as they look to clinch the series.

Cleveland Guardians Preview

Cleveland’s bats were held in check, managing just four hits and one run. Gabriel Arias drove in the lone run with an infield single in the fourth inning, but the Guardians went 1-for-7 with runners in scoring position. Steven Kwan and Jose Ramírez each collected a hit, while the rest of the lineup combined for 12 strikeouts.

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Pitching wasn’t the problem. Gavin Williams gave Cleveland six strong innings with eight strikeouts and no earned runs. Hunter Gaddis, Eli Sabrowski, and Cade Smith combined for three scoreless innings in relief. Now the Guardians hand the ball to Tanner Bibee in a must-win Game 2.

Detroit Tigers vs Cleveland Guardians Prediction

Both offenses were quiet in Game 1, and the shift to Mize vs. Bibee means much of the same, timely hitting, few runs, and a game determined by who scores late. Detroit’s bullpen is rested, but Cleveland has the urgency to win as its incentive. Expect another tight, low-scoring game where one big hit decides it late. Final Score Prediction: Cleveland Guardians win 3-2.