Detroit Tigers top the Baltimore Orioles 5-3 on June 11, 2025, as Spencer Torkelson's homer and Sawyer Gipson-Long's return seal the key road victory. Read how!
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
In a gritty, hard-fought battle at Camden Yards, the Detroit Tigers showed exactly why they're leading the AL Central. Combining timely power, clutch hitting, and the welcome return of a key arm, the Tigers held off a feisty Orioles squad for a 5-3 win, pushing their impressive record to 44-24.
Zach McKinstry tripled twice, a rare feat that proved crucial in manufacturing runs against a tough Orioles team.
The game's defining moment came in the fifth inning off the bat of Spencer Torkelson. With the game tight, Tork launched his 16th home run of the season, a two-run shot that gave the Tigers a lead they wouldn't relinquish. But it wasn't just a one-man show. The offense was a picture of efficiency. Dillon Dingler and Javier Báez came through with RBI singles, Wenceel Pérez added a sacrifice fly, and the unlikeliest of heroes, Zach McKinstry, legged out not one, but two triples, constantly putting pressure on the Baltimore defense. It was a classic display of this team's ability to score in multiple ways.
Perhaps the most heartwarming storyline of the night was the return of Sawyer Gipson-Long. After a long stint on the 60-day IL, the right-hander was back on the mound and looked sharp. While he didn't go deep into the game, he pitched effectively and set a positive tone, handing a lead over to the bullpen. His successful return is a massive boost for the Tigers' pitching depth as they navigate the grueling summer months. Having another reliable starter is a luxury this team will gladly take.
The bullpen was tasked with protecting a slim lead against a potent Orioles lineup, and they delivered. Chase Lee picked up the win in relief, bridging the gap to the back end. Will Vest was called upon for the save and, despite serving up a solo shot to Jordan Westburg in the ninth that made things interesting, he slammed the door for his 11th save of the season. It was a nervy finish, but another testament to the resilience of a bullpen that has been a quiet strength for Detroit all year.
This was more than just another win in June. It was a statement victory on the road against a fellow contender, powered by the team's star slugger and the inspiring return of a key pitcher. With their lead in the AL Central intact, the Tigers will look to build on this momentum and secure a series win against the Orioles. If they keep getting contributions from up and down the lineup and the rotation continues to get stronger, this team's ceiling keeps getting higher.
