Detroit Tigers vs Boston Red Sox Picks and Predictions May 13th 2025

Brayan Bello, Red Sox Look to Regain Control After Tigers’ 14-Run Outburst

The Detroit Tigers didn’t just win the opener of their series against the Boston Red Sox—they exploded for 14 runs, including a nine-run third inning that left little doubt by the fourth. After getting silenced by the Texas Rangers over the weekend, Detroit’s bats erupted at home to grab early control of this three-game set.

As we head into Tuesday’s matchup, the Red Sox hand the ball to Brayan Bello in hopes of halting the momentum, while the Tigers turn to a bullpen opener with Tyler Holton leading into young arm Keider Montero.

For bettors, fantasy players, and fans alike, this game sets up as a tone-setter—and there’s value to be found on both sides. For real-time odds and stats, check out the MLB Scores & Odds page.

Tigers’ Offensive Resurgence

Monday’s win wasn’t just impressive—it was dominant. The 14-2 rout included power, small ball, and hustle plays—like Riley Greene’s “Little League” home run, a two-run single turned full circuit around the bases after a fielding error in right.

That nine-run third inning was the Tigers’ biggest of the season, and it came against Tanner Houck, one of Boston’s more consistent starters.

Greene’s bat, paired with a lineup that totaled 15 hits, made a loud statement that Detroit’s weekend offensive slump was more of a pause than a trend.

Tigers Pitching: Opener Strategy with Montero Waiting

With Casey Mize sidelined due to a minor left hamstring strain, the Tigers will start Tyler Holton (2-2, 3.12 ERA) as an opener before transitioning to Keider Montero, recalled from Triple-A.

Holton at a Glance:

• First start of 2024
• 15 relief appearances this season
• 1.50 ERA vs Boston in 5 career appearances (relief)

Holton has been a stable piece of A.J. Hinch’s bullpen and profiles well against Boston’s lefty-heavy lineup.

Montero Steps In:

• 1-1, 4.15 ERA in the majors this season
• Last outing: 8 IP, 1 ER vs Rockies
• First career appearance vs Red Sox

Montero’s role has been fluid, jumping between Triple-A Toledo and Detroit. But he’s responded well under pressure—his recent outing in a doubleheader sweep proved he can handle big moments.

Red Sox Look for a Bounce Back Behind Bello

Boston will counter with Brayan Bello (2-0, 2.01 ERA), who’s been sharp in limiting runs but erratic with control. In his last outing vs Texas, Bello issued five walks in just 4.2 innings, though he still escaped without allowing a run.

Bello has allowed just 18 hits in 22.1 innings, but the 12 walks are concerning, especially against a surging lineup like Detroit’s.

Bello’s History vs Tigers:

• 0-1, 6.55 ERA in 2 career starts
• Needs to avoid falling behind in counts—walks have plagued his rhythm early

If he can get ahead in counts and trust his sinker early, he could neutralize Detroit’s fast-starting lineup.

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Key Players to Watch

Riley Greene (Tigers)

Fresh off a 3-RBI night, Greene is seeing the ball well. With his speed and power from the left side, he could challenge Bello early.

Brayan Bello (Red Sox)

The talent is there, but command will decide the outcome. If he limits walks, Boston has a fighting chance to even the series.

Keider Montero (Tigers)

This could be a breakout moment. If Montero builds off his last outing, Detroit’s bullpen gets a much-needed rest heading into Game 3.

Team Comparison

Betting Preview & Best Picks

Prediction:

Tigers 5, Red Sox 4

Bello pitches better, but Detroit’s hot offense does just enough against Boston’s bullpen. Montero settles in by the third and keeps the Tigers in front.

Best Bets:

• Tigers ML (-115)
• Under 9 total runs
• Riley Greene to record 2+ total bases
• Bello over 2.5 walks allowed

Explore more betting props on the Expert MLB Betting Guide.

FAQs

Why is Casey Mize not pitching?
He’s been placed on the 15-day IL with a minor hamstring strain.

Who’s starting for Detroit now?
Tyler Holton will open, followed by Keider Montero from Triple-A.

What’s wrong with Brayan Bello?
He’s healthy but struggling with command. He’s walked at least 3 batters in 3 of 4 starts.

Where can I track live game odds?
Visit our MLB Scores & Odds for real-time lines.

Final Take: Bello’s Bounce-Back or Montero’s Moment?

Tuesday’s matchup isn’t just about recovering from a blowout—it’s about measuring depth. Boston needs Bello to be sharp, while Detroit tests its pitching development pipeline again with Montero.

If the Tigers’ bats stay hot, they’ll head into Wednesday looking for the sweep.

Track live updates, odds, and matchups on ScoresAndStats.com.