Báez leads Tigers’ comeback: Skubal to the mound for G5

The Detroit Tigers, after weeks on the brink, achieved a crucial offensive explosion on Wednesday, placing themselves in the desired position to advance in the series. The team tied the American League Division Series (ALDS) at 2-2 against the Seattle Mariners, thanks to an outstanding performance by their key players.

Báez leads the Tigers’ offense

Javier Báez led the attack with a home run, a stolen base, and four RBIs, fueling a crucial comeback. Riley Greene also hit a home run, breaking the tie and sparking a four-run rally in the sixth inning, capped by Báez’s second homer. Gleyber Torres also contributed with a home run, demonstrating the Tigers’ ability to come alive at the opportune moment.

I am proud of our guys because today’s game is symbolic of how we play, you know?

A.J. Hinch, Manager of the Tigers

After Seattle took an early 3-0 lead, the Tigers responded with three runs in the fifth inning to tie the score. Báez sealed the comeback with a 104 mph single, demonstrating his experience and determination in critical moments.

We knew we had a lot of baseball left, a lot of innings to play. We believe and we’re never out until the last out is made.

Javier Báez

Báez, with a .346 postseason average and nine hits, recalled his days with the Chicago Cubs, where he was key to winning the World Series in 2016. His teammates highlight his ability to perform under pressure.

World Series champion years ago. He knows how to play in those situations. I’m not surprised, but I’m very happy. Everything he does for the team is really special.

Gleyber Torres

In the fourth inning, the Mariners threatened with bases loaded and no outs, but reliever Kyle Finnegan managed to limit the damage to one run, keeping the game in favor of the Tigers. The three-run comeback tied the largest in Tigers playoff history. The team, which had struggled offensively during the playoffs, with a batting average of .191 and only 17% of its run production coming from home runs, showed a notable improvement.

The Detroit Tigers celebrate their series-tying victory and force a decisive fifth game in Seattle.

I think hitting is contagious and not hitting is contagious too.

Spencer Torkelson, Tigers First Baseman

The fifth and decisive game will be played in Seattle, and the Tigers will feature the current American League Cy Young Award winner, Tarik Skubal, who has demonstrated his dominance in the postseason.

This is what competition is all about. This is why you play, for Game 5s. I think that’ll bring out the best in everyone involved. That’s why this game is so beautiful.

Tarik Skubal

Despite the challenges, the Tigers are one win away from the American League Championship Series.

We trust. We know who will throw that last game for us. But we can’t put all the effort into it.

Gleyber Torres