Tigers vs. Guardians Prediction: AL Wild Card Game 2 Betting Preview

The Detroit Tigers and Cleveland Guardians are set for a decisive showdown in Game 2 of the 2025 American League Wild Card round. After Detroit edged Cleveland 2-1 in a tense opener, the Guardians now face an elimination scenario in front of their home fans at Progressive Field. With a ticket to the ALDS on the line, all eyes will be on the pitching duel between Tanner Bibee and Casey Mize.

A Tight Division Rivalry

The Guardians narrowly won the AL Central during the regular season with an 88-74 record, finishing just one game ahead of the Tigers (87-75). That slim margin has defined their rivalry all season long. Cleveland took the regular-season series 8-5 and also eliminated Detroit in last year’s ALDS, adding extra stakes to Wednesday’s matchup.

Game 2 is a chance for Detroit to flip the script, while Cleveland is fighting to prove that its divisional crown was no fluke.

Pitching Matchup: Bibee vs. Mize

Cleveland is putting its hopes in right-hander Tanner Bibee (12-11, 4.24 ERA). Bibee has been especially strong at home, posting a 3.22 ERA at Progressive Field compared to a 5.17 mark on the road. Against Detroit, he’s been nearly untouchable — a perfect 3-0 record with a 0.95 ERA in three starts this season. In last year’s postseason, he also dominated the Tigers, further cementing his confidence entering this elimination game.

Detroit counters with Casey Mize (14-6, 3.87 ERA), who has quietly been one of the most consistent arms in the American League this year. The former No. 1 overall pick has excelled against Cleveland in particular, recording a 2.08 ERA across three starts while averaging more than a strikeout per inning. Mize’s ability to neutralize the Guardians’ top hitters will be crucial if Detroit hopes to advance.

Why the Tigers Can Win

The Tigers’ biggest strength is their balanced and powerful offense. Detroit finished among the top five in the AL in runs per game and home runs. A deep lineup featuring Riley Greene (36 HR, 111 RBI), Spencer Torkelson (31 HR), and Kerry Carpenter (26 HR) gives manager A.J. Hinch multiple weapons who can change the game with one swing.

Greene, in particular, had a breakout campaign, becoming an All-Star and finishing top five in both home runs and RBIs in the AL. With Mize’s proven track record against Cleveland, Detroit has a legitimate chance to close out the series.

Another hidden advantage is momentum. Detroit stole Game 1 on the road behind clutch pitching and timely hitting. If they carry that energy into Game 2, Cleveland may struggle to slow them down.

Why the Guardians Can Win

Cleveland’s path to victory starts with Bibee’s dominance at home and against Detroit. If he can carry that form into Wednesday, the Guardians have an excellent shot at forcing a Game 3. Once Bibee exits, Cleveland’s bullpen — which posted a 3.44 ERA, second-best in the AL — can shut the door.

Offensively, the Guardians lean heavily on José Ramírez, who once again put together a remarkable season with 30 homers, 44 stolen bases, and 31 doubles. He became just the third player in MLB history to post at least three seasons of 30+ HR, 30+ SB, and 30+ doubles, proving his rare mix of power and speed.

With Ramírez in the middle of the lineup, Cleveland can manufacture runs in multiple ways, whether through power, small ball, or aggressive base running. Playing in front of their home fans also provides a needed psychological boost in a win-or-go-home situation.

Betting Odds and Analysis

As of Wednesday morning, sportsbooks have Cleveland as the slight favorite at -133 on the money line, while Detroit is listed at +112. The over/under sits at 7 runs, reflecting expectations for a low-scoring contest given the pitching matchup.

The Tigers enter with momentum, but oddsmakers are backing Cleveland due to Bibee’s past success against Detroit. Still, Mize has the numbers to counterbalance that narrative. Bettors seeking value may look at Detroit as an underdog, while those anticipating a close game could consider the under at 7 runs.

Key Factors to Watch

1. Pitching Duel: Which starter blinks first — Bibee or Mize?
2. Clutch Hitting: Both lineups have power bats, but timely hits will likely decide this game.
3. Bullpen Battle: Cleveland has the edge in relief pitching, but Detroit’s staff has been reliable in high-pressure spots.
4. Momentum vs. History: The Tigers have the hot hand, but Cleveland has recent postseason success against them.

Outlook

With so much on the line, Game 2 promises to be another tight, nerve-wracking matchup between two bitter AL Central rivals. If Bibee continues his mastery of Detroit, Cleveland could extend the series. But if Mize holds his own and Detroit’s bats deliver, the Tigers could celebrate another ALDS berth in back-to-back seasons.

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