The American League Division Series took a brief pause after Game 1, allowing teams to recalibrate their pitching staff without the hassle of travel. This downtime could significantly impact the strategies of the managers as they deploy their bullpens moving forward. Given the pitching changes during the first game, every team likely appreciates this opportunity to regroup.
Tigers at Guardians (CLE leads 1-0)
Game Time: 4:08 p.m. ET, TBS
Starting Pitchers: Tarik Skubal (Tigers) vs. Matthew Boyd (Guardians)
Tigers: Can Skubal be their ace?
Manager A.J. Hinch has made it clear: the Tigers’ postseason strategy revolves around two types of games—“pitching chaos” or the dependable starts from Tarik Skubal. The aim is to win both of Skubal’s starts, leveraging his potential dominance to secure a spot in the next round. Skubal recently clinched the AL pitching Triple Crown and has been nearly untouchable, giving up just five runs in his last six outings. If the Tigers hope to progress, Skubal must deliver another stellar performance.
Guardians: Boyd faces his former mentee
In a unique twist, Matthew Boyd will face off against his former teammate and mentee, Tarik Skubal. Boyd, who has a rich history with the Tigers, makes his first postseason start against his old team. After a successful rehab from Tommy John surgery, Boyd joined the Guardians in August, and now he finds himself in a crucial moment. This matchup adds a layer of intrigue, as both pitchers know each other well.
Royals at Yankees (NYY leads 1-0)
Game Time: 7:38 p.m. ET, TBS
Starting Pitchers: Cole Ragans (Royals) vs. Carlos Rodón (Yankees)
Royals: Can they sustain their offense?
The Royals have faced challenges in scoring runs recently. Despite this, they managed to put up four runs against Gerrit Cole in Game 1 but ultimately fell short in a 6-5 loss due to a struggling pitching performance that included eight walks. For the Royals to compete, they need their bats to stay hot, especially with players like Salvador Perez, who has a solid track record against Rodón.
Yankees: Supporting cast needs to shine
The Yankees boast two superstars, Aaron Judge and Juan Soto, but the success of their postseason run will depend on the contributions of the rest of the lineup. In Game 1, while Judge and Soto didn’t deliver their best performances, other players stepped up, including Gleyber Torres, who hit a two-run homer. If the Yankees can maintain this offensive balance, they’ll be a formidable contender for the World Series.
Conclusion
As the ALDS continues, all eyes will be on the matchups and individual performances that could shape the outcome of the series. With Game 2 approaching, both the Tigers and Guardians, as well as the Royals and Yankees, have much at stake.