The Detroit Tigers had one job Thursday afternoon in Cleveland: win or go home. And they got it done.
It wasn’t exactly smooth sailing, but thanks to a massive seventh inning, the Tigers pulled away and held on for a 6-3 victory over the Guardians at Progressive Field. The win not only clinched the series but also punched Detroit’s ticket to the American League Divisional Series, where they’ll face the Seattle Mariners.
Hinch’s Postgame Message
Inside the Tigers clubhouse, before the champagne corks started popping, manager A.J. Hinch gathered his team for a quick but powerful message.
“Congratulations, this should feel really good,” Hinch told the players. “Not only because of what we’ve done, but where we’re doing it. They test us, and test us, and test us, and we keep answering. It’s taking 89 wins to get to this point. I know what 11 more will bring.”
Then, with a grin, Hinch reminded his team of how the season began:
“Our first win of the year was where? Let’s go back to Seattle!!!”
Seconds later, champagne started spraying, and the celebration was officially on.
let’s go back to Seattle #BuiltForOctober pic.twitter.com/u60Cc579J2
— Detroit Tigers (@tigers) October 2, 2025
What’s Next
The Tigers now turn their focus to the Seattle Mariners in a best-of-five ALDS matchup. Game 1 is set in Seattle, a fitting return for Hinch’s rallying cry.
Detroit proved in Cleveland that they can answer the bell under pressure. Now, the test gets even tougher, and the Tigers are ready for it.
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