- Torkelson ties for team HR lead with 8th blast
- Casey Mize improves to 4-1 with 5.1 strong innings
- Tigers successfully challenge two crucial umpire calls
- Detroit maintains MLB's 3rd-best home record (11-3)
- Orioles strand 7 runners in scoring position
The Detroit Tigers continued their home dominance Saturday behind Spencer Torkelson's late-game heroics and Javier Báez's unexpected offensive surge from the ninth spot. Torkelson's seventh-inning moonshot off reliever Cionel Pérez proved decisive, sailing 412 feet into Comerica Park's left-field bleachers. The 24-year-old first baseman now shares Detroit's home run leadership, signaling his emergence as the lineup's cleanup threat Detroit desperately needs.
Casey Mize delivered another quality start, scattering eight hits over 5.1 innings while maintaining pristine control. The 2018 first overall pick didn't issue a single walk, continuing his career-best 1.8 BB/9 rate that ranks among MLB's top 15 starters. Detroit's bullpen preserved the lead despite late pressure, with Will Vest striking out two in a four-out save that showcased the Tigers' underrated relief depth.
Baltimore's offensive struggles reached critical mass, stranding nine baserunners including three at third base. The Orioles' 1-for-8 performance with runners in scoring position highlighted their recent 1-4 skid. Rookie starter Brandon Young labored through 4.2 innings, issuing five walks that raised his early-career BB/9 to an alarming 7.4.
Three pivotal moments shaped this defensive battle:
- Riley Greene's homer-robbing catch on Ramón Laureano (7th inning)
- Successful challenge overturning Javier Báez's groundout call (4th)
- Double-play execution with bases loaded (6th)
Industry analysts note Detroit's 22-9 home record since August 2023 reflects improved defensive positioning. Saturday's game marked their seventh one-run victory this season, compared to just 14 in all of 2023. For Baltimore, the loss exposed bullpen vulnerabilities – their relievers have allowed 11 HRs in May, third-most in the AL.
Regional Impact: The Tigers' strong start injects optimism into Michigan's sports scene following the Lions' NFC Championship run. Comerica Park attendance is up 18% year-over-year, with Saturday's doubleheader expected to draw 55,000+ fans.