Detroit Tigers vs. Arizona Diamondbacks: Preview, Predictions and Picks for May 18, 2024

Published on:
May 18, 2024 7:50 AM
The Detroit Tigers, leading the series 1-0, travel to Chase Field to take on the Arizona Diamondbacks on Saturday, May 18, 2024, at 8:10 PM. The Tigers, with a 12-9 road record, look to build on their momentum against the Diamondbacks, who are 11-12 at home this season. A win would give the Tigers a commanding 2-0 series lead.
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Detroit Tigers
Arizona Diamondbacks

Tigers vs Diamondbacks starting pitchers

  • Zac Gallen for Arizona Diamondbacks
  • Jack Flaherty for Detroit Tigers

Tigers vs Diamondbacks game preview

This upcoming MLB showdown between the Detroit Tigers and the Arizona Diamondbacks promises some intriguing pitcher matchups with Jack Flaherty taking the mound for Detroit and Zac Gallen for Arizona. Flaherty, who is still hunting for his first win of the season, boasts an impressive ERA of 3.88 and a WHIP of 1.05, showcasing his ability to limit both walks and hits. On the flip side, Gallen has been a strong asset for the Diamondbacks, clocking in with an ERA of 2.86 and a WHIP of 1.11, supported by five wins under his belt this season. This pitching duel suggests a game that could potentially be dominated by strong throws and tactical strikeouts.

Detroit Tigers have been battling inconsistencies this season, mirrored in their middling team stats. With a batting average sitting at 21st in the league and struggling to turn hits into home runs or significant runs, the Tigers' lineup, led by Mark Canha and Riley Greene, desperately needs to find a rhythm. The lack of impactful scoring opportunities has indeed been a thorn in their side, but every game presents a new chance. Their saving grace could be Flaherty's command on the mound and reducing opponents' scoring opportunities, but can the Tigers' bats wake up in time to support his efforts?

The Arizona Diamondbacks come into the match with a more robust batting record, positioned significantly better in runs scored and overall home run stats, thanks to key players like Ketel Marte and Christian Walker. Maintaining a disciplined approach at the plate which has seen them rank well in securing bases on walks, the Diamondbacks have managed to combine patience with hitting power. With Gallen as their starting pitcher, who has consistently held down the fort, Arizona's gameplay might revolve around building early leads and letting their pitcher protect the scoreboard, a strategy that has worked well in the past. Keeping up this balance could be the key to tilting the game in their favor against the Tigers.

Arizona Diamondbacks injuries

  • Jose Castillo (RP): Day-To-Day
  • Jorge Barrosa (LF): Day-To-Day
  • Luis Frias (RP): 15-Day-IL
  • Alek Thomas (CF): 10-Day-IL
  • Miguel Castro (RP): 15-Day-IL

Detroit Tigers injuries

  • Jace Jung (2B): Day-To-Day
  • Luis Santana (3B): Day-To-Day
  • Garrett Hill (RP): Day-To-Day
  • Daniel Cabrera (RF): Out
  • Eddys Leonard (SS): Day-To-Day

Tigers vs Diamondbacks predictions

The Motor City is revving up for a showdown against the Arizona Diamondbacks, and I'm thinking the Tigers are gonna come out swingin'. I'm looking at Javier Baez to have a monster game, maybe 2-3 RBIs and a couple of extra-base hits. And don't sleep on Riley Greene, this kid's been on fire lately, I'm predicting at least a double and a run scored. And let's not forget about Kerry Carpenter, he's been crushing it lately, I think he'll go yard at least once.

Out in the desert, the Diamondbacks are looking to shake off their mediocre season start. I think Corbin Carroll is due for a breakout game, maybe 3-4 hits and a couple of runs scored. And don't count out Ketel Marte, he's been raking lately, I'm thinking at least a double and a RBI. And with Christian Walker's pop at the plate, I wouldn't be shocked if he goes yard tonight.

So, with all the fantasy baseball hype aside, I think the Diamondbacks take this one. The Tigers' pitching has been shaky at best, and I think Zac Gallen is gonna have a solid outing against this Tiger lineup. I'm calling it, Arizona wins 6-4, and Ketel Marte gets the game-winning RBI.

Detroit Tigers vs. Arizona Diamondbacks Betting Odds

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