Detroit Tigers vs Cleveland Guardians Picks and Predictions May 25th 2025

Guardians Eye Division Statement with Sweep Opportunity in Detroit

The Cleveland Guardians have been quietly building momentum, and Sunday presents a chance to make a serious statement. After taking the first three games of their four-game set in Detroit, Cleveland now goes for the sweep against the division-leading Tigers—with Logan Allen squaring off against Tarik Skubal in a must-watch pitching duel.

For a Guardians team chasing AL Central supremacy, a series sweep would do more than just boost morale—it would cut deeper into Detroit’s lead and build confidence for the stretch ahead.

Logan Allen Gets the Ball After Rain-Shortened Start

Logan Allen has had a mixed bag of outings recently. His last start against Minnesota on Monday was cut short after just three innings due to rain. He gave up two runs on 53 pitches before the skies opened up and ended his night early.

Before that, Allen was lights out. On May 13, he tossed six scoreless innings against Milwaukee, flashing his best stuff and helping save the bullpen.

“We’re a team of five out there, picking each other up,” Allen said. “Going deep in games is the goal.”

That said, Allen’s history against Detroit isn’t sparkling. In two career starts versus the Tigers, he’s surrendered nine earned runs over 8 1/3 innings, including a brutal outing last May when Andy Ibanez tagged him for two homers.

Tarik Skubal Anchors Tigers’ Pitching Hope

The Tigers will counter with Tarik Skubal (4-2, 2.87 ERA), their ace and one of the most efficient strikeout artists in the league right now. Detroit has won each of his last five starts, although he’s only been credited with two of those victories.

In his most recent outing, Skubal gave up three runs across 5 2/3 innings in a solid, albeit unspectacular, performance against St. Louis.

Still, Skubal isn’t worried about the scoreboard.

“You guys chase results. I chase process,” he told reporters. “I’ve stacked a lot of good days together, and I like where I’m at.”

Over his last five starts, Skubal has been downright filthy: 50 strikeouts, just 2 walks. Armed with two distinct fastballs—a four-seamer and a sinker—plus a devastating changeup and slider combo, Skubal keeps hitters guessing from pitch one.

For pitching trends and matchup odds, check out the MLB Odds Page.

Guardians Offense Comes Alive in Clutch Moments

Saturday’s game felt like one Detroit had in the bag. The Tigers jumped out to a 3-0 lead in the first inning, but Cleveland clawed back, ultimately forcing extra innings and then erupting for four runs in the 10th to take a 7-5 win.

That comeback moved Cleveland to within three games of the Tigers in the AL Central standings, setting up a pivotal series finale.

Jose Ramirez kept his hot streak alive with two hits, extending his hitting streak to 17 games. His bat has been essential in driving the Guardians’ recent resurgence.

Want real-time player stats? Visit the Guardians Team Page.

Future Odds Shifting?

See Updated MLB Futures

Get Free Trial

Tigers Welcome Back Vierling, Search for Stability

Detroit did get a bit of good news despite Saturday’s defeat. Matt Vierling, back from a shoulder injury, was activated Friday and made his first start of the season on Saturday, driving in two runs and looking sharp at the plate.

With Riley Greene and Spencer Torkelson still inconsistent, Detroit needs production from every corner of the lineup—and Vierling’s return is a welcome development.

But if the Tigers hope to avoid the sweep, they’ll need more from their bullpen, which let Saturday’s game slip through their fingers late.

Explore the Tigers Team Page for deeper roster updates.

What to Watch in the Series Finale

This game isn’t just another tick in the schedule—it could shift the power balance in the AL Central.

Can Allen find his rhythm against Detroit?
He’s had trouble in past outings against the Tigers. Sunday could be a redemption arc—or more frustration.

Will Skubal dominate again?
His strikeout numbers are jaw-dropping, and he’s been in control even when the results aren’t perfect.

Can Cleveland’s offense stay hot late in games?
The Guardians are getting better at rallying late. Extra-inning resilience could come into play again.

Will Vierling’s return spark more from Detroit’s bats?
If the Tigers get early runs but can’t hold leads, it may be time to revisit bullpen strategies.

FAQs

What time is the series finale between the Guardians and Tigers?
The game is scheduled for Sunday afternoon in Detroit.

Who is starting for Cleveland?
Left-hander Logan Allen, who has a 3.86 ERA this season.

Who is Detroit’s starting pitcher?
Ace Tarik Skubal, with a 2.87 ERA and 50 strikeouts in his last five starts.

How has Jose Ramirez been performing lately?
Ramirez has a 17-game hitting streak and is anchoring the Guardians’ offense.

How did Cleveland win on Saturday?
They overcame a 3-0 deficit, forced extra innings, and scored four in the 10th for a 7-5 victory.

Where can I get betting tips for Guardians vs. Tigers?
Head over to the Expert Betting Guide for analysis and prop picks.