After several years of utter domination, the Tigers have become a surprisingly tough opponent for the Guardians this season. They’ll have a chance to end that narrative decisively, though, with seven games against their division rival over the next nine days.
The Guards did finally show signs of life against the Tigers in their last matchup, sweeping Detroit and outscoring them 20-5 in the three wins. Prior to that series, they were 2-7 against the Tigers.
Other teams have no trouble slapping the Tigers around this season, partially because of a massive list of injuries, and partially because the rebuild they thought was over looks like it might be restarting.