Skubal Aims for Redemption in AL Wild Card Clash Against Guardians
The stage is set for a pivotal showdown as the Tigers turn to left-hander Tarik Skubal for Game 1 of the American League Wild Card Series against the Guardians on Tuesday afternoon. For Detroit, this move has typically heralded success. Skubal has just wrapped up an impressive season, boasting a league-leading 2.21 ERA and looking poised to capture his second consecutive Cy Young Award later this fall. In fact, the Tigers thrived during his 31 starts, posting a commendable 21-10 record.
Confronting Past Struggles
However, the two-time All-Star faces a critical challenge as he steps onto the mound against a Cleveland team that has recently had the upper hand. In an unusual twist, this marks Skubal’s third consecutive start against the Guardians, following two prior defeats. Adding to the pressure, he was on the mound during last year’s ALDS, where he surrendered a game-winning grand slam to Lane Thomas in a decisive Game 5 that saw Cleveland advance.
The question looms: Can Skubal rise to the occasion and deliver a performance worthy of his accolades? Or will Cleveland’s relentless “Guards Ball” approach continue to stymie him?
Viewing Information for Game 1
For fans eager to catch the action, Game 1 of the Guardians vs. Tigers will be broadcast nationally on ESPN. The coverage will feature Sean McDonough as play-by-play announcer, with Todd Frazier providing analysis and Taylor McGregor reporting from the field. Viewers can also stream the game live on the ESPN app or via Fubo, which offers a free trial for new users.
Game Day Details
Date: Tuesday, September 30
Time: 1:08 p.m. ET
Location: Progressive Field, Cleveland, Ohio
As the Guardians clinched the AL Central title, they secured the No. 3 seed, making this matchup all the more significant. This game kicks off a best-of-three series, heightening the stakes from the outset.
Radio Broadcast
For those preferring to listen, Game 1 will also be available on SiriusXM. New subscribers can enjoy four months of free access, which includes live coverage of NFL, MLB, NBA, NHL games, and extensive sports analysis.
MLB Wild Card Series Schedule
Tuesday, September 30
Game 1: Guardians vs. Tigers at 1:08 p.m. ET on ESPN, ESPN app, Fubo
Game 1: Cubs vs. Padres at 3:08 p.m. ET on ABC, ESPN app, Fubo
Game 1: Yankees vs. Red Sox at 6:08 p.m. ET on ESPN, ESPN app, Fubo
Game 1: Dodgers vs. Reds at 9:08 p.m. ET on ESPN, ESPN app, Fubo
Wednesday, October 1
Game 2: Guardians vs. Tigers at 1:08 p.m. ET on ESPN, ESPN app, Fubo
Game 2: Cubs vs. Padres at 3:08 p.m. ET on ABC, ESPN app, Fubo
Game 2: Yankees vs. Red Sox at 6:08 p.m. ET on ESPN, ESPN app, Fubo
Game 2: Dodgers vs. Reds at 9:08 p.m. ET on ESPN, ESPN app, Fubo
Thursday, October 2
Game 3: Guardians vs. Tigers* at 1:08 p.m. ET on ESPN, ESPN app, Fubo
Game 3: Cubs vs. Padres* at 3:08 p.m. ET on ABC, ESPN app, Fubo
Game 3: Yankees vs. Red Sox* at 6:08 p.m. ET on ESPN, ESPN app, Fubo
Game 3: Dodgers vs. Reds* at 9:08 p.m. ET on ESPN, ESPN app, Fubo
If necessary
As the Tigers gear up for this critical matchup, all eyes will be on Skubal as he seeks redemption and aims to help his team advance in the postseason.
