Detroit Tigers Fall to Guardians,3-1,Continuing Late-Season Struggles
DETROIT – the Detroit Tigers suffered a 3-1 loss to the Cleveland Guardians on Thursday at Comerica Park,extending a recent downturn as they navigate the final weeks of the 2025 season. The defeat marks the latest in a string of games where offensive opportunities have slipped away,hindering the Tigers’ pursuit of a stronger finish.
The Tigers, aiming to build momentum in September, find themselves facing increasing difficulty securing wins. This loss underscores the team’s ongoing challenges with situational hitting and capitalizing on runners in scoring position, issues that have plagued them throughout the latter half of the season. The Guardians’ victory solidifies their position as a contender while further complicating the Tigers’ playoff aspirations.
Detroit took an early 1-0 lead in the second inning, stringing together three consecutive hits from Spencer Torkelson (double), Wenceel Pérez (single), and Colt Keith (RBI double). Though, the Tigers failed to capitalize on having two runners in scoring position with no outs, as Dillon Dingler grounded into a fielder’s choice at home, followed by strikeouts from Zach McKinstry and Parker Meadows.
Cleveland responded and ultimately took the lead, with pitcher Tanner Bibee settling in after the second inning. Bibee allowed only two baserunners in his final four innings – a single by Gleyber Torres in the third and a walk by Meadows in the fifth. Meadows attempted to steal second during Torres’ strikeout, but Kerry carpenter then struck out to end the inning.
Colt keith exited the game in the middle of the contest due to low back tightness.
The Tigers continue their series against the Guardians on Friday.
Junfu Han, Detroit free Press. Cleveland Guardians pitcher Tanner Bibee (28) throws against Detroit Tigers during the first inning at Comerica Park in Detroit on thursday, Sept. 18,2025.