Tigers reveal Wild Card roster and Game 1 lineup, but bullpen questions remain

The Detroit Tigers revealed their 26-man roster for the American League Wild Card series ahead of Tuesday's opener against the Cleveland Guardians.

Any player in the organization as of Aug. 31 is eligible to make the postseason roster, including players in the minor leagues. Teams are limited to 13 pitchers among the 26 players, but there is no limit on position players.

Infielder Colt Keith is notably absent from the roster as he continues to recover from right rib cage inflammation, though he is eligible to return later in the playoffs if the Tigers make it past Cleveland in the Wild Card round. Meanwhile, outfielder Jahmai Jones – whose late-season heroics helped the Tigers punch their playoff ticket – will be on Detroit's bench for his first-ever MLB postseason.

Noteworthy omissions from the bullpen include Brenan Hanifee and Bailey Horn, the latter of whom was widely expected to be on the roster to give the Tigers three left-handed relievers against Cleveland's lefty-heavy lineup.

The Guardians have seven left-handed bats (and three switch-hitters) among their 14 position players, including two of their best hitters in Steven Kwan and Kyle Manzardo. But the Tigers have once again opted to carry just two lefty relievers in bullpen in Tyler Holton and Brant Hurter.

Tigers reveal starting lineup for AL Wild Card Game 1 vs. Guardians

The Tigers also revealed their starting lineup for Tuesday's game in Cleveland against breakout starter Gavin Williams.

Center fielder Parker Meadows will lead off for Detroit, followed by Gleyber Torres at second base. Kerry Carpenter will DH, with first baseman Spencer Torkelson batting cleanup. Riley Greene will bat fifth and start in left field, followed by Wenceel Pérez batting sixth and starting in right. Dillon Dingler will catch, while Zack McKinstry will get the start at third base and Javy Báez will bring up the rear at shortstop.

In addition to Jones, infielder Trey Sweeney and outfielder Justyn-Henry Malloy will be available as extra bats on the Tigers' bench. Ace Tarik Skubal will take the mound for Detroit against the Guardians in Tuesday's series opener.

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