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As the Detroit Tigers look to rebound from a tough loss, they are counting on their ace, Tarik Skubal, to guide them in Game 2 of the American League Division Series against the Cleveland Guardians. The Tigers trail 0-1 in the five-game series after falling 7-0 in Game 1. Skubal, who has already secured a win this postseason, will face off against former Tiger and current Guardians pitcher Matthew Boyd.

In the first game, the Guardians quickly took control with a 5-0 lead before the Tigers even recorded an out. Cleveland's Tanner Bibee shut down Detroit's offense, which struggled to get anything going. The Tigers' bullpen strategy failed them in the opener, but expectations are different with Skubal set to take the mound for Game 2. Skubal has a strong track record, especially following losses, boasting a 9-4 record in 13 such starts this season.

Game 2, scheduled for 4:08 p.m. at Cleveland's Progressive Field, will air on TBS and truTV, with streaming available on Sling. The Tigers enter the game as -125 moneyline favorites, according to BetMGM. Skubal showed his readiness by retiring Cleveland's top hitters efficiently, striking out Steven Kwan with a 98 mph fastball and getting José Ramírez to chase a changeup.

Detroit's offense, shut out for several innings, finally saw a spark when Parker Meadows recorded a two-out infield single. However, the Tigers failed to capitalize. Manager A.J. Hinch has adjusted his lineup to counter Boyd's pitching, opting for predominantly right-handed hitters. Notably, rookie Justyn-Henry Malloy, known for his effectiveness against left-handed pitchers, leads off the lineup.

The Tigers need more from their lineup after a lackluster Game 1. In contrast, Cleveland will rely on Boyd, who has a 2-2 record and a 2.72 ERA since returning from injury. Boyd, a former mentor to Skubal, now seeks to push the Guardians one step closer to the series win.

A victory in Game 2 is crucial for the Tigers to stay competitive and take the series back to Comerica Park. With the right adjustments and Skubal's capabilities, Detroit is poised to even the series, keeping their postseason hopes alive.