### Detroit Tigers Host First MLB Playoff Game in a Decade

For the first time in 10 years, postseason baseball has returned to Detroit. The Detroit Tigers, riding a miraculous two-month surge, are now hosting the Cleveland Guardians today for Game 3 of the American League Division Series (ALDS) at Comerica Park. The game, which starts at 3:08 p.m. on TBS, marks a significant moment as it is the first playoff encounter at Comerica since the Tigers faced off against the Baltimore Orioles in 2014.

The Tigers’ impressive comeback has been the talk of the town, having clawed their way from 10 games outside the playoff picture in early August to clinch the final American League Wild Card spot. Fans are eagerly filling the stadium, with over 41,000 supporters expected to create an electric atmosphere as the Tigers seek to capitalize on their home-field advantage after tying the series 1-1 earlier this week.

In anticipation of the game, the Tigers organized a free pregame block party on Witherell Street outside Comerica Park, inviting fans to join in the festivities from noon. The streets echoed with the sounds of bats cracking and baseballs hitting mitts as the Schoolcraft College Ocelots baseball team practiced at Corner Ballpark, a poignant reminder of Detroit's rich baseball history.

Detroit’s fan base has shown unwavering support. Sandy Halinski drove from Haslett to be part of the experience, emphasizing the revitalizing impact on the city. Blake Ortbring of Detroit expressed that the city's spirits are notably higher when sports teams thrive. Longtime fan Keith Woolfolk, who has been loyal to the Tigers since 1969, praised the enduring dedication of Detroit’s supporters.

Others, like Jerry Kelly from Warren and Chad Gould from Allendale, shared their enthusiasm too. Kelly observed the positive vibe and great weather, hoping for a Tigers victory, while Gould had his face painted with a Tiger to show his love for Detroit, calling the atmosphere "electric."

Committed fans like Eric Rychlinski, who witnessed an epic game-winning home run by Carpenter in Cleveland, brought their passion and hope to Comerica Park with aspirations of catching a memorable homer. Meanwhile, the Sowle family from Grand Rapids found their investment in tickets worth every penny for the lasting memories and the chance to see their beloved Tigers in action.

Margaret and Charles Stanhouse of Romulus epitomized the city's resilience by sharing their philosophy of never leaving a game early, a sentiment that embodies the Tigers’ fighting spirit this season. Kevin Allen Lamb and his cousin Nolan Ryan celebrated this sentiment while reminiscing about the family connections fostered through baseball.

As fans poured into Comerica Park and the surrounding areas, the atmosphere was rife with hope, joy, and the unexpected. It's more than a game; it’s a testament to perseverance, community, and the extraordinary moments that sports bring into people’s lives. With the city's eyes firmly set on a victorious outcome, the Tigers' playoff journey continues to inspire and unite Detroit fans of all ages.