The Tigers will commence the American League Division Series against the Guardians with left-handed pitcher Tyler Holton as their opener.

CLEVELAND --The Detroit Tigers are adopting a strategy of repetition, opting to start left-handed pitcher Tyler Holton in Game 1 of their American League Division Series against the Cleveland Guardians on Saturday. Holton, 28, previously took the mound in the decisive Game 2 against the Houston Astros during the wild-card round on Wednesday, where the Tigers secured a 5-2 victory. He pitched for one inning in that game and is expected to have a similar role on Saturday. According to ESPN Research, Holton will become the fourth pitcher in the last decade of postseason play to start consecutive playoff games. Tigers manager A.J. Hinch commented on the decision, stating, "As usual, we're going to explore various options. We will utilize our relievers as necessary, and the additional day off between games is likely beneficial for all pitchers involved in this series, including our own."

Game 2 is scheduled for Monday, followed by another day off as the series transitions to Detroit. During the regular season, Holton participated in 66 games, making nine starts and totaling 94.1 innings pitched. He has recorded 18.2 scoreless innings against the Guardians over the last two seasons. Hinch noted, "His calm demeanor allows me to use him at any moment. I believe he has pitched in every inning, including the 10th." When asked about the experience of starting a playoff game, Holton remarked, "Mentally, my preparation was unchanged, but it felt very special." He will face right-handed pitcher Tanner Bibee, who is set to make his postseason debut after finishing as the runner-up for the AL Rookie of the Year award last season. Bibee expressed his excitement, stating, "It didn't fully register until I realized who we were up against, and once Detroit won that series, it became real. I've had butterflies ever since, and it's incredibly thrilling. ... I'm eager to experience the energy." This season, Bibee recorded a 12-8 record with a 3.47 ERA over 31 starts, including four matchups against the Tigers, where he went 1-1 with a 4.50 ERA. "This is a very different team compared to earlier in the season," he added.