Tigers make surprising change on ALDS roster ahead of Guardians matchup

The Detroit Tigers took down Goliath during the AL Wild Card Series, and now it's on to the American League Division Series against a familiar opponent. The Tigers did what no team had been able to do over the last seven seasons and ousted the Houston Astros prior to the American League Championship Series. But Detroit will have to bring that same energy to the field this week with the Cleveland Guardians standing between them and a trip to the ALCS.

The Tigers' ALDS roster looks surprisingly similar to the 26 players who helped take down Houston during the AL Wild Card Series earlier this week. There is, however, one glaring omission with Casey Mize having been replaced by Keider Montero.

Tigers surprisingly omit Casey Mize from ALDS roster, add Keider Montero

Mize did not take the hill during the previous series, and won't be on the mound during the ALDS either. The former first-round pick of the Tigers in 2018 will be watching all the playoff action from the dugout.

But Montero may get a chance to showcase his talents as the series progressed. The right-hander has primarily worked as a starter this season, but during the playoffs, it wouldn't be surprising to see manager A.J. Hinch turn to him in relief either.

Tigers look to recreate Game 1 magic in ALDS vs. Guardians

As for Game 1, the Tigers have Tyler Holton toeing the rubber. Holton was on the mound to start Detroit's Game 2 win over the Astros, but came on in relief during Game 1. The left-hander logged a total of 1.1 innings and struck out one batter during the AL Wild Card.

Hinch will send his ace, and likely AL Cy Young Award-winner, Tarik Skubal to the mound for Game 2 on Sunday. The Tigers would love to steal one from the Guardians at Progressive Field, and truth be told, Skubal's start on Sunday gives them that opportunity.

But Tigers fans shouldn't close the door to an upset victory over the Guardians in Game 1. It will be a tall task, however, with Tanner Bibee taking the ball from Cleveland manager Stephen Vogt.

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