The Tigers host the Twins on Aug. 5, 2025, aiming for a 6th straight home win. Can Chris Paddack & Riley Greene extend Detroit's AL Central lead?
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
The good vibes are back in Detroit. Riding a five-game winning streak at home and sitting comfortably atop the AL Central, the 66-48 Tigers are looking to keep their foot on the gas tonight against the struggling Minnesota Twins. With an eight-game division lead, every win against a divisional opponent feels like a statement, and tonight is a golden opportunity to make another one.
After a brutal stretch that saw them lose 12 of 13 games, the Tigers have roared back to win six of their last eight, re-establishing their dominance in the division.
The man on the mound for the Tigers is Chris Paddack, who gets the nod with his 4-9 record and 4.77 ERA. While the record isn't flashy, Paddack has a prime opportunity to secure a win against a Twins offense that has underperformed this season. He'll be facing Minnesota's Zebby Matthews (2-3, 5.67 ERA), giving the potent Detroit lineup a favorable matchup. Look for sluggers like Riley Greene (.269 AVG, 26 HR, 84 RBI) and the ever-consistent Gleyber Torres (.273 AVG, .370 OBP) to do some damage and support their starter early.
An eight-game lead in August is a fantastic position to be in, but A.J. Hinch's squad knows there's no room for complacency. This series against the sub-.500 Twins is exactly the kind of series that contenders are expected to win, especially at home. Banking these wins now provides crucial cushioning for the tougher stretches of the schedule down the line. The team's recent resurgence, winning six of their last eight, has rebuilt the confidence that was shaken during that rough patch in July.
In a refreshing change of pace from the frantic trade deadline, the Tigers' front office was quiet today. No trades, no roster moves, no new injuries. This stability is a manager's dream, allowing the team to focus solely on the on-field product. The only notable update from the extended organization is the ongoing rehab assignment for RHP José Urquidy, who could provide a significant boost to the pitching staff upon his return. For now, a quiet transaction wire is good news, signaling a healthy and settled clubhouse.
Tonight is more than just another game; it's a chance to bury a division rival further and tighten the grip on the AL Central crown. A win would extend the home streak to six and prove that the mid-season slump is firmly in the rearview mirror. All eyes are on Chris Paddack to deliver a strong start and for the bats to keep the good times rolling at Comerica Park.
