Detroit Tigers vs
Kansas City RoyalsPredictions & Preview

Tigers Look to Rebound Against Royals in AL Central Showdown

The Kansas City Royals are set to face off against the Detroit Tigers in the first game of a three-game series on Friday night. The Tigers currently lead the season series with a 7-3 record and hold an 8.5 game lead over the Royals in the AL Central division. Stay tuned for our prediction on the outcome of this matchup.

Betting Odds

• Moneyline: Tigers +101 | Royals -113
• Spread: Tigers +1.5 (-195) | Royals -1.5 (+170)
• Total: Over/Under 9 (-110)
• Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Kansas City will win straight-up is 53%.

Detroit Tigers

Tonight, the Detroit Tigers will have right-hander Chris Paddack on the mound, who has had an up and down season with a 5-11 record, a 4.98 ERA, and a 1.26 WHIP over 137.1 innings. Paddack has struggled with giving up home runs, allowing 23 already this season compared to 14 last year. However, he has shown potential in big divisional games, as seen in his previous start against the Kansas City Royals where he gave up just one run in five innings. Despite their recent four-game losing streak, the Tigers still maintain an 8.5-game lead over the Royals in the AL Central. Manager A.J. Hinch remains cautious about the team's vulnerability, stating that "things can change in a heartbeat."

Kansas City Royals

In the series opener, the Royals will start Seth Lugo, a reliable veteran in their rotation with an 8-6 record, 3.99 ERA, and 1.24 WHIP this season. Despite his success, Lugo has struggled against the Tigers this year, with an 0-2 record and 7.93 ERA in two starts. Overall, the Royals are trailing the Tigers by 8.5 games in the AL Central but are within striking distance of a wildcard spot at 3.5 games back. They are entering the game against Detroit on a high note after a dominant 12-1 win over the Chicago White Sox, showcasing their offensive capabilities.

Tigers Poised for a Comeback Against Royals after Recent Struggles

The Kansas City Royals currently have momentum in their favor, however, it is worth noting Lugo's difficulties against the Detroit Tigers this season. Following a day off on Thursday, the Royals are on a two-game winning streak, contrasting with the Tigers who have suffered four consecutive losses. Paddack's strong performance against the Royals last week and the Tigers' overall track record against the Royals this season lead me to believe that the Tigers are poised to make a comeback. Therefore, I am inclined to predict that the Tigers will bounce back in the upcoming matchup.

Sources: [ 1 ] [ 2 ]