MLB · 1 year ago

How Unsung Heroes Are Powering the Detroit Tigers’ Playoff Push

Sportsgrid Staff

Host · Writer

A Playoff Push No One Expected
As of mid-September, the Tigers had less than a 10% chance of making the playoffs. By September 20, that number had surged to 42.5%. Players like Meadows and the unsung pitching heroes are keeping the dream alive. The Tigers have consistently defied the odds with timely hits, clutch pitching, and even a bit of luck. Fans have every reason to be optimistic about the future of this team, and if the Tigers can keep this momentum going, the 2024 season could end with a playoff berth that no one saw coming.

Tigers Futures at FanDuel

World Series Winner: +9000

ALCS Winner: +3200

Make Playoffs: +116

Earn AL No. 6 Seed: +190
Parker Meadows: The Spark the Tigers Needed
Parker Meadows has been an essential catalyst for the Tigers’ turnaround in the second half. His clutch hitting, excellent outfield defense, and game-changing speed on the bases have energized the lineup. After being sent down to Triple-A to work on his mechanics, Meadows returned with a vengeance. Since his recall, he's hit .303 with five home runs and drastically reduced his strikeout rate from 39.7% to 19.5%. His impact is undeniable, with the Tigers boasting a 24-11 record when he plays. From robbing home runs to hitting a dramatic go-ahead grand slam, Meadows has proven he’s not just a core piece but also a leader in this young Tigers squad.

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The Second Wave of Arms: Unsung Heroes of the Mound
With key injuries and the trade of Jack Flaherty, Detroit turned to a trio of relatively unknown pitchers: Brenan Hanifee, Brant Hurter, and Sean Guenther. These pitchers have more than exceeded expectations, keeping the Tigers competitive. Despite not being top prospects, all three have posted impressive groundball rates — Hurter at 56.7%, Guenther at 65.9%, and Hanifee at 55.8%. By relying on well-placed sinkers, they limit hard contact and keep the ball on the ground. Their ability to generate soft contact has been crucial in keeping the Tigers’ playoff hopes alive.

https://www.sportsgrid.com/mlb/players/sean-guenther/70960
A.J. Hinch and the Coaching Staff: The Strategy Behind Success
A.J. Hinch deserves plenty of credit for the Tigers’ second-half surge. His strategic pinch-hitting and excellent bullpen management have been key factors in Detroit’s success. With the departure of Jack Flaherty and numerous injuries, Hinch and his coaching staff, particularly pitching coach Chris Fetter, leaned into bullpen games and still delivered results. The way Hinch has handled different pitchers going multiple innings has been masterful. Fetter’s ability to tweak pitchers’ mechanics and get the best out of them is also one of the reasons the Tigers are still in the playoff hunt.

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Chris Fetter: The Architect of the Pitching Resurgence
Chris Fetter’s work with the pitching staff has been remarkable. Whether it’s helping veterans regain their form or making small mechanical adjustments for young arms, Fetter’s influence has been a game-changer for the Tigers. From fostering the development of the second wave of arms like Hurter and Hanifee to aiding established starters, his expertise is paying dividends. Even though the bullpen was depleted, Fetter has managed to get every ounce of production from his pitchers, making him one of the most vital figures in the Tigers’ organization.

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A Playoff Push No One Expected
As of mid-September, the Tigers had less than a 10% chance of making the playoffs. By September 20, that number had surged to 42.5%. Players like Meadows and the unsung pitching heroes are keeping the dream alive. The Tigers have consistently defied the odds with timely hits, clutch pitching, and even a bit of luck. Fans have every reason to be optimistic about the future of this team, and if the Tigers can keep this momentum going, the 2024 season could end with a playoff berth that no one saw coming.

Tigers Futures at FanDuel

World Series Winner: +9000

ALCS Winner: +3200

Make Playoffs: +116

Earn AL No. 6 Seed: +190
Parker Meadows: The Spark the Tigers Needed
Parker Meadows has been an essential catalyst for the Tigers’ turnaround in the second half. His clutch hitting, excellent outfield defense, and game-changing speed on the bases have energized the lineup. After being sent down to Triple-A to work on his mechanics, Meadows returned with a vengeance. Since his recall, he's hit .303 with five home runs and drastically reduced his strikeout rate from 39.7% to 19.5%. His impact is undeniable, with the Tigers boasting a 24-11 record when he plays. From robbing home runs to hitting a dramatic go-ahead grand slam, Meadows has proven he’s not just a core piece but also a leader in this young Tigers squad.

Stay ahead of the game and elevate your sports betting experience with SportsGrid.

How Unsung Heroes Are Powering the Detroit Tigers’ Playoff Push

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