Riley Greene's 8th-inning HR lifts the Tigers over the Guardians 6-5 on July 4, 2025. See how his heroics and key returns sparked the holiday victory.
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
Riley Greene was the star of the show, going 3-for-5 with a home run and three RBIs.
When the Tigers needed a spark, Riley Greene brought the explosion. The star outfielder was the offensive engine all night, capping his performance with a decisive solo home run in the eighth inning that ultimately provided the winning margin. Before that, his clutch two-run double in the seventh inning wrestled the lead away from the Guardians. It was a superstar performance from a player who continues to prove he's the heart of this lineup.
The victory was made even sweeter by the return of key reinforcements. Reese Olson, activated from the 15-day IL just hours before the game, took the mound and gave the team a solid five innings, allowing three runs. It was a gutsy return for the righty. Meanwhile, Matt Vierling also came off the IL and didn't miss a beat, lacing a key RBI single in his first game back. Getting these two back and immediately seeing them contribute is a massive boost for a team with high aspirations.
With Olson and Vierling returning, the Tigers had to make some tough decisions. Outfielder Justyn-Henry Malloy and shortstop Trey Sweeney were optioned to Triple-A Toledo to clear roster space. While it's a tough break for the two young players, it's a sign of the team's increasing depth and health. The front office is prioritizing its best possible 26-man roster for the big-league club as the playoff race heats up, creating a healthy logjam of talent.
With key players back in the fold and a statement win against a tough division rival, the Tigers are firing on all cylinders. At 54-34, they're not just winning; they're building the kind of resilient, deep roster that makes a real push for October. Keep an eye on the rest of this series against the Guardians—it feels like a preview of a meaningful September.
