What's Happening?
As the 2025 MLB regular season nears its end, the Detroit Tigers are preparing for a deep playoff run. Despite recent successes, concerns have been raised about the team's starting rotation. Tarik Skubal, the team's leading southpaw, remains a strong asset, but the rotation lacks depth beyond him. MLB writer Zachary Rymer highlighted this issue, noting the Tigers' rotation ranks 19th in the league with a 4.53 ERA since the All-Star break. While Skubal continues to perform well, other pitchers like Jack Flaherty, Casey Mize, and Chris Paddack have shown inconsistent performances, raising questions about who will be the Game 2 starter in the playoffs.
Why It's Important?
The Tigers' rotation issues could significantly impact their playoff performance. A strong rotation is crucial in a seven-game series, and the lack of depth could be exploited by opponents. While Skubal can carry the rotation, the performance of other pitchers will be critical in prolonging series and securing victories. The Tigers' ability to address these concerns will determine their success in the postseason, affecting their chances of advancing and potentially winning the championship.
What's Next?
The Tigers must strategize to strengthen their rotation before the playoffs. Decisions regarding the Game 2 starter and adjustments to pitching strategies will be crucial. The team may consider leveraging Skubal's strengths by having him pitch multiple times in a series. Additionally, the performance of Flaherty, Mize, and Paddack will be closely monitored, and adjustments may be made based on their upcoming games.
