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Rockies’ Tanner Gordon Faces Tough Tigers in High-Stakes Doubleheader: What to Expect
The Colorado Rockies are set for a challenging Thursday as they host the American League-leading Detroit Tigers in a traditional doubleheader, following a rain-soaked start to the series. Amidst their struggles, the Rockies will turn to Tanner Gordon, who is making his season debut in Game 2—an outing that may determine his immediate future with the team.
Doubleheader Schedule: Weather Forces Format Change
Originally planned as a three-game series, inclement weather in Denver on Tuesday condensed the Rockies-Tigers set into two days. After the Tigers snagged an 8-6 win in 10 innings on Wednesday, both teams will now face off in a Thursday doubleheader beginning at 1:10 p.m. local time.
Game 1 features Rockies veteran Kyle Freeland versus Tigers right-hander Casey Mize, while Game 2 will see the return of Tanner Gordon, called up from Triple-A Albuquerque. The Tigers have yet to name their second-game starter. Don’t Miss our Picks from MLB Expert Handicappers
Spotlight: Tanner Gordon’s Return to the Majors
Tanner Gordon, still searching for his first MLB win, will be under scrutiny. His last major league outing was a tough one—he gave up seven runs on 10 hits in just 3 1/3 innings in Detroit on September 11, 2024.
Gordon by the Numbers:
| Season | Team | Record | ERA | Starts |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 (MLB) | Rockies | 0-6 | 8.65 | 8 |
| 2025 (AAA) | Albuquerque | 1-1 | 4.82 | 6 |
Despite his minor league improvement, Gordon faces one of the toughest lineups in baseball right now. If he can deliver a quality start, it could boost both his confidence and the morale of a floundering Rockies squad.
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Veteran Presence: Kyle Freeland Sets Franchise Record
Game 1 starter Kyle Freeland continues to cement his legacy with the Rockies. His May 1 start against the Giants marked his 207th career start, the most in franchise history. The Denver native takes pride in his longevity and connection to the team:
“I wear that with honor… being able to be a part of this organization for so long… I couldn’t do it without my teammates and family,” Freeland said after his milestone start.
Freeland has a 0-4 record with a 5.70 ERA this season but will aim to flip the script with a strong performance against Detroit—a team he’s never faced before.
Tigers Riding High: Mize, Skubal, and Momentum
On the flip side, the Detroit Tigers are in peak form. With four wins in their last five games, they sit atop the American League standings with a 22-13 record. Right-hander Casey Mize (5-1, 2.70 ERA) continues to shine in his comeback season following Tommy John surgery.
Mize Highlights:
- ERA under 3.00 all season
- 3 consecutive wins
- 7-inning outings in 2 starts
Mize’s previous game against the Rockies last season saw him allow four runs in 4 2/3 innings, but he struck out seven without issuing a walk.
The Tigers initially planned to start reigning AL Cy Young winner Tarik Skubal in this series, but he’s been moved to Friday’s series opener vs. the Texas Rangers, likely a strategy to manage his workload and maximize impact against another top-tier team.
Team Trends and Implications
| Team | Record | Last 5 Games | Key Strength |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tigers | 22-13 | 4-1 | Deep rotation, hot offense |
| Rockies | 6-28 | 0-3 | Youth movement, struggling starters |
The Rockies, now on a 3-game skid, have the worst record in Major League Baseball. This doubleheader offers a chance at redemption, though it won’t be easy against a surging Detroit team.
What’s at Stake for Gordon and the Rockies?
This is more than just a spot start for Tanner Gordon. It’s a potential turning point in his young career. A strong performance could help stabilize a rocky rotation and keep him in the majors longer. For the Rockies, it’s about salvaging morale and avoiding a sweep at home.
Conclusion
As the Rockies prepare to face the Tigers in a crucial Thursday doubleheader, all eyes will be on Tanner Gordon. It’s more than just a game—it’s a chance for redemption, development, and perhaps a new chapter in the Rockies’ challenging 2025 season. The Tigers, meanwhile, are looking to reinforce their dominance and test their depth heading into a tougher series against Texas.
