On August 10th, 2024, the Detroit Tigers were a team going nowhere. Ten games out of a Wild Card spot, sporting an abysmal 55-63 record, and facing their eighth consecutive losing season, their playoff hopes seemed slim to none – a mere 0.2% according to FanGraphs. Their lineup was riddled with underperforming players, and the future looked bleak. Then, something incredible happened.
The Tigers won the next day, and then they kept winning. A pivotal victory on August 15th, fueled by Javier Baez’s late-inning home run against the Mariners, ignited a remarkable 31-13 run. This improbable surge propelled them to an 86-76 record, snatching a Wild Card spot and making the playoffs for the first time in over a decade. The momentum continued into 2025, with the Tigers boasting the best record in the American League at 36-20.
But what’s the secret behind this astonishing turnaround? Looking at their performance over the past 100 games, several key factors stand out. Tarik Skubal’s emergence as a dominant force is undeniable. Since August 11th, 2024, he’s been 10-2 with a stellar 2.22 ERA, an astounding 149 strikeouts, and only 14 walks. In fact, his strikeout-to-walk ratio is off the charts, potentially the best ever for a qualified pitcher.
The bullpen has also been a major contributor. After a shaky start to 2024, the relief pitching improved dramatically, boasting a league-leading 2.78 ERA over the last 100 games. The Tigers’ bullpen’s success is a testament to the managerial acumen of A.J. Hinch and pitching coach Chris Fetter, who expertly mix and match their pitchers to maximize effectiveness.
The Tigers’ offense has also experienced a significant transformation. After ranking near the bottom of the league in runs scored for several years, they’ve significantly improved their offensive output. This improvement is largely due to the additions of Gleyber Torres and the breakout season from Spencer Torkelson, who’s shown improved plate discipline and hitting prowess.
Javier Baez’s story is perhaps the most surprising. After a dismal 2024 season, Baez has found new life in 2025, playing multiple positions, including center field, and hitting far above expectations. His versatility and newfound offensive production have been essential to the Tigers’ success.
Finally, the emergence of pitching prospects Casey Mize and Jackson Jobe has added significant depth to the starting rotation. While both still have areas for improvement, their contributions have been vital to the Tigers’ recent dominance.
In summary, the Detroit Tigers’ incredible 100-game run is a result of a confluence of factors: exceptional pitching from Skubal and the bullpen, a revitalized offense, the unexpected contributions of Baez, and the promise of young pitching talent. The Tigers are a team transformed, and their impressive performance makes them a legitimate contender for the World Series. With a strong farm system and the ability to add at the trade deadline, this team could be poised for a historic season. The 1984 World Series champions might be back in the running.
