Detroit Tigers vs Cleveland Guardians Picks and Predictions May 24th 2025

Tigers’ Casey Mize Expected to Return from IL to Face Guardians

Casey Mize is set to make his return to the mound on Saturday night as the Detroit Tigers aim to snap their losing streak against the Cleveland Guardians. After being sidelined due to a mild hamstring strain, Mize is ready to start the third game in the four-game series at Comerica Park. His return is a welcome development for a Tigers team looking to regain some momentum.

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Mize’s Recent Form and Injury Update

Before his brief stint on the injured list, Mize had been delivering standout performances that reflected the potential seen when he was the top pick in the 2018 MLB Draft. With a 6-1 record and a 2.53 ERA, Mize had given up one or no runs in five of his seven starts this season. His last appearance came on May 8 against the Colorado Rockies, where he pitched a solid game but later reported hamstring discomfort.

Rather than go through a minor league rehab assignment, Mize threw a five-inning simulated game on Monday, a decision rooted in caution given his injury history. Last season, a similar strain kept him out for two months, and the Tigers are taking no chances with their key starter.

Impact on the Tigers’ Rotation

The return of Mize provides a much-needed boost to Detroit’s starting rotation, which has been hampered by the absence of right-hander Reese Olson, currently sidelined with a finger injury. Mize’s presence brings stability, and the Tigers hope it can shift the tide in a series where they’ve dropped the first two games.

In his career, Mize has only faced the Guardians once and struggled, giving up five runs (three earned) in 3 2/3 innings for a 7.36 ERA. He’ll look to reverse that trend in this critical matchup.

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Guardians’ Pitching and Recent Momentum

Opposing Mize will be right-hander Luis Ortiz, who enters the game with a 2-5 record and a 4.66 ERA. Despite those numbers, Ortiz has pitched well in his last two starts, allowing only three runs over 11 innings while racking up 16 strikeouts. Unfortunately, Cleveland’s offense has provided minimal run support, scoring just one run combined in those outings.

Ortiz’s most recent start came last Sunday against the Cincinnati Reds, where he allowed two runs over five innings in a 3-1 loss. His career record against Detroit stands at 0-1 with a 4.76 ERA across two appearances.

Lineup Reinforcements on Both Sides

The Tigers welcomed back Matt Vierling on Friday, activating him from the injured list following a rotator cuff injury sustained during spring training. Vierling’s return gives manager A.J. Hinch added flexibility, as he can play both third base and outfield positions.

On the other side, the Guardians also received a lineup boost with Lane Thomas returning from a month-long absence due to a wrist injury. Although he wasn’t in Friday’s lineup, Thomas is expected to start on Saturday. His presence will be significant, especially as Cleveland looks to extend its dominance over Detroit.

Jose Ramirez continues to lead the Guardians’ offense, extending his hitting streak to 16 games with an RBI triple in Friday’s 3-1 win. The Guardians’ pitching staff has been dominant in the series, allowing just one run through the first two games.

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What to Expect in the Series Matchup

The third game of the series presents a critical opportunity for the Tigers to bounce back with their ace returning. Mize’s ability to manage his hamstring and pitch effectively will be key. Meanwhile, the Guardians aim to capitalize on their recent form and secure the series with a third straight win.

Both teams are slowly returning to full strength, and the matchup between two talented right-handers sets the stage for an exciting Saturday night in Detroit.

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