Detroit Tigers' 2025 Challenge: Turning Underdog Status into a Championship
Detroit’s road to contention is built on moments like this, captured during the 2022 season. (Photo by Giulia Santos)
Los Angeles – Today marks Opening Day for the Detroit Tigers, bringing a renewed sense of optimism for the 2025 season. After a thrilling underdog run in 2024, the Tigers are eager to build on their momentum and take the next step toward a championship. Last year, the Tigers proved themselves as one of baseball’s most exciting underdog stories, surging late to reach the postseason for the first time in a decade. Now, the question is: can Detroit turn that magical finish into a World Series title?
The 2024 Underdog Run
Few expected the Tigers to be in the playoff hunt last season. By early August, they were struggling, sitting eight games under .500 and 10 games out of the postseason race. However, something clicked down the stretch. The team went 31-11 in their final 42 games, riding elite pitching, timely hitting, and an unshakable belief in each other to secure a playoff spot with two games to spare.
Though their postseason run ended in the AL Division Series against Cleveland, the Tigers’ late-season magic was a sign of what could be on the horizon. Detroit had proven they belonged among the best, setting the stage for 2025.
The Strength of the 2025 Tigers
The foundation of this team is built on dominant pitching. Reigning Cy Young winner Tarik Skubal headlines a rotation that also features Jack Flaherty, Reese Olson, and Casey Mize. Their depth is so strong that a $10 million starting pitcher was moved to the bullpen, showing just how much talent this staff holds. If the rotation stays healthy, it could be one of the best in baseball.
The bullpen, often a key factor in deep playoff runs, also looks promising. Detroit’s ability to mix and match arms in high-leverage situations was a major factor in their 2024 success, and that strategy should remain a strength this season.
Offensively, the Tigers need a few key players to step up. Spencer Torkelson had the best spring training of his career, and if he can translate that success into the regular season, Detroit’s lineup will be much more dangerous. Young infielder Colt Keith is another player to watch, as the Tigers are counting on him to take a step forward in his development. Meanwhile, outfielder Riley Greene has MVP-caliber potential and will be expected to lead the offense.
Perhaps the most pivotal figure for Detroit's offense in 2025 is shortstop Javier Báez. While his 2024 season was a rollercoaster, Báez’s leadership and dynamic skill set cannot be overlooked. With flashes of brilliance both defensively and offensively, his potential to drive the team’s success in 2025 is high. If Báez can find more consistency at the plate, paired with his usual elite defense, he could be a game-changer, elevating Detroit’s chances of going deep into the postseason.
Injuries could be a hurdle early in the season. The loss of Parker Meadows for at least two months is a significant blow to Detroit’s outfield depth. With additional injuries to Matt Vierling, Wenceel Perez, and Akil Baddoo, the Tigers will have to rely on unexpected contributors to fill the gaps until their lineup is back to full strength.
Can the Tigers Win It All?
Detroit’s path to a championship won’t be easy, but they have all the ingredients of a contender—strong pitching, a solid bullpen, and a lineup with untapped potential. The American League Central remains winnable, and if the Tigers can build on their late-season momentum from 2024, they have a legitimate shot to return to the postseason.
The key will be avoiding the slow start that plagued them last year. While they managed to overcome it with a spectacular September, they can’t always count on late-season miracles. If Detroit can stay competitive early and ride their pitching staff throughout the summer, they could be in position for a deep playoff run.
From underdog to legitimate contender, the Tigers have come a long way in just one year. Now, the challenge is clear—turn potential into results and chase the ultimate prize. The road to a World Series isn’t easy, but Detroit is ready to roar in 2025. With players like Báez stepping up, the Tigers are ready to make their mark.
