The Detroit Tigers (29-15) travel north to face the Toronto Blue Jays (21-22) in the series opener at Rogers Centre. The Tigers enter the matchup as favorites while the Blue Jays look to bounce back after an 8-3 loss to the Rays in their last game.
Starting Pitchers
Detroit Tigers – Jack Flaherty (RHP, 1-5, 4.61 ERA)
- Flaherty has struggled this season, posting a 4.61 ERA with 50 strikeouts in 41 2/3 innings.
- He has recorded six starts of five or more innings but has only one quality start this year.
- In his last outing against the Rangers, he lasted three innings, allowing five earned runs.
Toronto Blue Jays – Bowden Francis (RHP, 2-5, 5.40 ERA)
- Francis has had an up-and-down season, with a 5.40 ERA and 30 strikeouts over 41 2/3 innings.
- His last start saw him give up five earned runs over six innings against the Twins.
- He faces a Tigers lineup that ranks 7th in MLB in home runs (56) and 2nd in total runs scored (244).
Key Players to Watch
Detroit Tigers
- Spencer Torkelson (1B) – Leads the Tigers with 11 home runs and 34 RBIs, ranking 8th in MLB in homers.
- Kerry Carpenter (OF) – Batting .295, with three straight games with a hit.
- Riley Greene (OF) – Has 10 home runs and is riding a five-game hitting streak, batting .421 over his last five games.
Toronto Blue Jays
- Vladimir Guerrero Jr. (1B) – Batting .291, with five home runs and 20 RBIs.
- Bo Bichette (SS) – Leads the team with 21 RBIs, hitting .263 over his last five games.
- George Springer (OF) – Has five home runs, providing power in the middle of the order.
Game Strategy & Predictions
- Tigers’ Game Plan:
- Take advantage of Francis’ struggles, working deep counts to force early bullpen usage.
- Utilize Torkelson and Greene’s power to capitalize on Rogers Centre’s hitter-friendly dimensions.
- Flaherty must limit hard contact, as Toronto ranks 12th in MLB in total hits (364).
- Blue Jays’ Game Plan:
- Guerrero and Bichette need to set the tone early against Flaherty.
- Francis must avoid walks, as Detroit has been effective at capitalizing on free passes.
- Toronto’s bullpen must be ready, as Francis has struggled to go deep into games.
Game Odds
Detroit Tigers – 115
Toronto Blue jays 8.5
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Thursday, May 15, 2025
