Detroit Tigers vs. Cleveland Guardians: Betting Preview and Analysis
Picks: Under 6.5 and Detroit Moneyline +105
Why We’re Backing the Under
The trends in this series point to another low-scoring affair. In the last four matchups between Detroit and Cleveland, the losing team hasn’t scored a single run, resulting in four consecutive shutouts. Both teams have consistently hit the under in recent games, with Cleveland staying under the total in their last eight and Detroit staying under in five straight and eight of their last nine. The pattern of dominant pitching and weak offensive performances should continue in this matchup.
Pitching Trends and Recent Form
Cleveland has relied on Tanner Bibee during their three-game winning streak, and he delivered a stellar performance in Game 1 with a 7-0 shutout. Bibee has been a crucial part of the Guardians’ rotation and has given them a chance to win every time he’s taken the mound. Detroit, on the other hand, has effectively utilized their bullpen strategy, working with openers and carefully managing matchups. AJ Hinch has mastered this approach, keeping opponents off-balance, and the Tigers’ pitching has been able to stifle Cleveland’s offense, which is currently in a slump.
Why We’re Backing Detroit
Cleveland’s offense has completely stalled, having been blanked twice in a row and struggling mightily to generate runs. The Guardians are in one of their infamous scoring droughts, and it’s hard to see them breaking out of it against a disciplined Detroit pitching staff. With Stephen Vogt struggling to find any offensive spark for Cleveland, Detroit is in a great position to capitalize and close out the series.
Betting Analysis: Tigers Moneyline and Run Line
With the series shifting back to Detroit, we see value in the Tigers on the moneyline (+105), especially considering their recent success and Cleveland’s struggles at the plate. Additionally, taking Detroit +1.5 on the run line offers a solid backup play for those looking for some cushion, as Detroit has been competitive in every game this series.
Final Verdict: Play the Under and Back Detroit
With both teams averaging just 4.33 runs per game in this series and consistently underperforming offensively, the Under 6.5 is our top play. Detroit’s pitching has been effective, and Cleveland’s inability to score should keep this one tight. We also like the Tigers to win outright, given Cleveland’s offensive funk and Detroit’s mastery of the bullpen game.
Predicted Score: Detroit 3, Cleveland 2
Picks: Under 6.5 and Detroit Moneyline +105 as we expect another tight, low-scoring game with the Tigers pulling off the victory.