Detroit Tigers vs Cleveland Guardians Picks and Predictions May 22nd 2025

Division Rivals Clash: Tigers and Guardians Begin Crucial Four-Game Series in Detroit

There’s no shortage of motivation in the Motor City this week. The Detroit Tigers, one of baseball’s early-season surprise stories, are set to host the Cleveland Guardians for the first time this season — a four-game set that comes packed with postseason flashbacks and divisional weight.

The last time these two clubs squared off was in the American League Division Series, where Cleveland halted Detroit’s Cinderella run in five games. The Guardians tagged Tigers ace Tarik Skubal with the series-ending loss, and he’s already locked in to pitch the series finale on Sunday.

But before that, Detroit’s attention is on Thursday’s opener, where right-hander Jack Flaherty will look to build on a strong bounce-back performance and help set the tone for the pivotal homestand.

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Jack Flaherty Finds Rhythm, Aims to Build Momentum

After five consecutive losing starts, Jack Flaherty flipped the narrative in his most recent outing — a gritty 5 2/3-inning effort in which he held a red-hot Blue Jays offense to just two runs. The win not only halted Flaherty’s slide but also reminded fans why he was a major offseason acquisition for Detroit.

“It was good to go out and execute,” Flaherty said after the win. “As the game went on, I really started getting in sync. The ball came out better, the command was sharp — that’s the kind of rhythm I’ve been looking for.”

In his career against Cleveland, Flaherty has been especially effective: a 2-2 record with a 1.96 ERA over seven starts. If that trend holds, it could give Detroit a huge lift as they chase their 13th series win of the season.

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Guardians Turn to Tanner Bibee After Rain Disrupts Rotation

The Guardians had their pitching schedule shuffled due to weather delays in Minnesota, and as a result, Tanner Bibee gets the ball for Thursday’s opener. Bibee enters with a 3-4 record and a 4.06 ERA, but his recent performances have shown flashes of dominance — followed by inconsistency.

He gave up five runs (four earned) over six innings in a loss to the Reds last Friday, but settled down after a rough start to finish strong.

“Didn’t have his sharpest stuff early, but he gave us some big innings late,” manager Stephen Vogt said. “That’s who Tanner is.”

Bibee himself expressed frustration at the outing but took pride in finishing the sixth.

“I didn’t love the start,” he said. “But getting to six innings, that made it more manageable.”

However, his career numbers against Detroit are cause for concern: 1-3 with a 5.28 ERA in six starts. He’ll need to find his command early if Cleveland hopes to contain Detroit’s resurgent bats.

Looking to build a betting angle off pitcher vs. team matchups? Review data on the MLB Expert Betting Guide.

Tigers Trending Up, Fueled by Resilience

The Tigers have been one of baseball’s feel-good stories in 2024. They’ve already won 12 of their first 16 series — a feat they haven’t achieved since 1984, the same year they last hoisted a World Series trophy.

They enter this four-game series riding the high of a series win against St. Louis. After a blowout loss in the opener, Detroit regrouped with 5-4 and 5-1 wins to close out the Cardinals.

Manager A.J. Hinch praised the team’s ability to reset.

“Every day is a new test,” Hinch said. “After that first game, the most important game of the year was the next day. We got that one and came back again the next day and won the series. That’s the mentality we’re building here.”

This Tigers team isn’t stacked with household names, but they’ve found ways to win. Whether it’s timely hitting, solid bullpen work, or strong starts from guys like Flaherty and Skubal, Detroit is proving they belong in the AL Central conversation.

For the latest betting picks and projections for Detroit, head to the MLB Pick Page.

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Guardians Split in Minnesota, Seek Offensive Rhythm

Cleveland enters the series after a strange day in Minnesota, where they dropped the conclusion of a suspended game before bouncing back to win the scheduled game 5-1. It was an emotional day, but one that could spark momentum heading into this rivalry set.

The Guardians have been anchored by consistent pitching and a gritty offense, but they’ve lacked explosion at times. Run production has been streaky, and they’ll need more from the middle of their order to stay competitive over four games in Detroit.

Their bullpen has also seen heavy use lately, so a strong outing from Bibee would be a welcomed sight for a team aiming to reclaim control in the division.

Skubal vs. Cleveland: Sunday’s Must-Watch Matchup

Though Thursday is the start of this series, there’s already anticipation building for Sunday when Tarik Skubal gets the ball against the team that ended his 2023 postseason run. Skubal has been dominant this season and will be carrying a chip on his shoulder into the series finale.

His ERA has been among the league’s best, and his ability to miss bats has made him one of the most feared lefties in the game. If Detroit can take two games early in the series, a win behind Skubal could cement their standing as legit contenders in the AL Central.

Stay tuned to rotation previews and pitching matchups via the MLB Expert Betting Guide.

FAQs

Why is this series important for the Tigers?
The Tigers are trying to solidify their place as contenders in the AL Central. A strong showing against the Guardians would help prove that their early-season success isn’t a fluke.

How has Jack Flaherty performed lately?
Flaherty ended a five-game losing streak with a strong start against Toronto. He has a career 1.96 ERA in seven starts vs. Cleveland.

What’s the Tigers’ record in series this season?
Detroit has won 12 of its first 16 series — their best start since 1984.

Who is Tanner Bibee and how has he pitched?
Bibee is a right-hander with a 3-4 record. He’s been inconsistent but has shown flashes of top-tier stuff. He has struggled historically against Detroit.

When do the Tigers face the Guardians again?
This is the first of several division meetings this season, with more series scheduled throughout the summer. These early games could set the tone.

Where can I get MLB picks and game predictions?
Visit the MLB Pick Page for expert analysis, betting insights, and updated odds for every matchup.