The Pittsburgh Pirates and Detroit Tigers face off in the first game of a three-game series at Comerica Park in Detroit, Michigan. The Tigers enter the matchup with the best record in baseball (47-27), while the Pirates look to bounce back after losing three of four to the Cubs over the weekend.
Game Details
- Date: Tuesday, June 17, 2025
- Time: 6:40 PM ET
- Venue: Comerica Park, Detroit, MI
- TV Broadcast: ESPN, Bally Sports Detroit, AT&T SportsNet Pittsburgh
Team Overview & Recent Form
Pittsburgh Pirates (29-45, 10-25 Away)
The Pirates have struggled on the road, holding a 10-25 record away from home. They lost three of four to the Cubs, including a 3-2 extra-inning loss on Sunday. Their lone win in the series came with Paul Skenes on the mound.
Key Players to Watch
- Oneil Cruz – Leads the Pirates with 13 home runs, slugging .445.
- Andrew McCutchen – Batting .263, with two home runs and eight RBI in his last 10 games.
- Bailey Falter (SP) – 5-3 record, 3.36 ERA, coming off a 5.1-inning, one-run performance vs. Miami.
Detroit Tigers (47-27, 24-11 Home)
The Tigers have been dominant at home, holding a 24-11 record. Despite losing two of three to the Reds, Detroit remains one of the top offensive teams in MLB, ranking sixth in total runs scored.
Key Players to Watch
- Gleyber Torres – Leads the Tigers with a .276 batting average, adding 10 doubles and seven home runs.
- Spencer Torkelson – Power hitter with 16 home runs, ranking 13th in MLB.
- Casey Mize (SP) – 6-2 record, 2.95 ERA, coming off a 5.1-inning, two-run outing vs. Baltimore.
Tactical Analysis & Key Matchups
- Pirates’ Offense vs. Tigers’ Pitching – Detroit’s rotation ranks among the best, while Pittsburgh struggles with a .225 team batting average.
- Home Run Battle – The Tigers have hit 85 home runs, ranking 10th in MLB, while the Pirates have 50, ranking 29th.
- Starting Pitcher Duel – Mize’s elite control vs. Falter’s steady consistency.
Detroit’s home-field advantage and superior offense give them the edge, but Pittsburgh’s pitching could keep the game close. Expect a low-scoring battle, with the Tigers likely securing a comfortable win.
Game Odds
Pittsburgh Pirates 7
Detroit Tigers – 328
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Tuesday, June 17, 2025
