Tigers Make Unfortunate History in Game 2 Loss to Guardians

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Gavin Groe | Last updated Oct 1, 2025 4:43 PM ET

The Detroit Tigers had a chance to escape Progressive Field on Wednesday and eliminate the division rival Cleveland Guardians after blowing a double-digit-game lead in the AL Central. However, that was not the case, as the Tigers’ bullpen collapsed in the eighth inning, leading to a 6–1 Game 2 loss and forcing a decisive Game 3 on Thursday.

While Detroit’s pitching allowed the game to get away late, the team’s offense has consistently failed. While manager A.J. Hinch has done his best to generate offense, Cleveland’s staff has done an incredible job limiting the damage and allowing just three total runs in the opening two games of the wild-card series.

As the Tigers look to rebound on Thursday and keep the season alive, changes must be made. The club will have to provide more offense to move on. The offense as a collective made unfortunate history during Wednesday’s loss, leaving 15 runners on base, marking a franchise playoff record.

“A resounding, series-saving statement from Cleveland. The Guardians hit three home runs and cobbled together 4.1 scoreless innings from five relievers. Detroit left 15 men on base, a playoff franchise record. Tomorrow is a win-or-go-home Game 3,” wrote ESPN’s Jeff Passan.

FINAL: Guardians 6, Tigers 1

A resounding, series-saving statement from Cleveland. The Guardians hit three home runs and cobbled together 4.1 scoreless innings from five relievers. Detroit left 15 men on base, a playoff franchise record. Tomorrow is a win-or-go-home Game 3.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) October 1, 2025

Although Detroit won 2-1 in Game 1, the theme of leaving runners on base has continued to be an issue. The team has also failed to provide any timely hitting, as the Tigers have gone just 2-for-23 (.086 batting average) with runners in scoring position over the first two games.

Detroit has also collected 25 strikeouts through both games and has yet to score against any Cleveland relievers. The Guardians bullpen has thrown 7 1/3 innings without allowing a run so far. Detroit will look to turn it around with its season on the line at 1:08 p.m. Thursday on ESPN.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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