Tigers vs Guardians Preview: Mize Returns to Face Cleveland

Casey Mize is back! The Tigers' first-overall pick from 2018 gets his shot Sunday after missing time with a right adductor injury. He's an All-Star now—remember that. Mize pitched five strong innings in his rehab game, striking out five batters and giving up just one run. He might not go super deep today since he hasn't pitched much lately. Cleveland's Gavin Williams takes the ball for the Guardians. Williams has struggled this season with a 5.4 ERA, giving up plenty of hits. This matchup matters because both teams need wins in a tight AL Central battle.

Detroit came so close these last two games. They lost 3-2 Friday when a throwing error helped Cleveland score. Saturday was brutal—3-1 loss. The Tigers scored runs but couldn't string together enough hits when it mattered. You've got power hitters like Spencer Torkelson (he crushed a 416-foot homer Saturday) and James Outman who can change games instantly. But Cleveland's bullpen has been tough. The Guardians are 38-33 overall, sitting strong at home. Detroit is 29-41 and needs this win badly to turn their season around.

These two teams already played each other this weekend. Cleveland won both games. Now they're back at Progressive Field where the Guardians feel comfortable. Detroit's pitching staff is supposed to be their strength—two-time Cy Young winner Tariq Skubal leads them, plus they brought back legend Justin Verlander. But Mize stepping up today matters huge. Cleveland's Chase DeLauter might not play (rib cage contusion), weakening their lineup. Angel Martinez also banged up his foot. If Detroit's bats stay hot like Torkelson showed, they can win this one and spark a comeback.

Sunday's game matters more than you might think. Detroit needs to win this series-clincher to build confidence going forward. Mize returning healthy gives the Tigers a legitimate ace on the mound. His All-Star season last year proved he belongs with the best. Cleveland's injuries to DeLauter and Martinez could level the playing field. If Mize pitches lights-out like he did in rehab and Torkelson keeps crushing balls, Detroit can flip this series around. Watch Mize's fastball and control—that's your answer to whether the Tigers stay alive in this race.