Detroit Tigers Roll Behind River Ryan Debut and Big Bats

Ryan Shines in Tigers Debut

The Detroit Tigers may be out of the American League playoff race, but they gave fans plenty to cheer about on Monday night. Detroit cruised to a 9-2 victory over the Washington Nationals, powered by a strong debut from pitcher River Ryan and three home runs.

Ryan, who came to Detroit from the Los Angeles Dodgers in the Tarik Skubal trade, pitched three scoreless innings. He allowed just two hits and one walk while striking out two. It was a welcome return to the mound for the young pitcher.

"I think with, kind of what I've been through this year with injuries and kind of being stuck behind a really elite rotation with the Dodgers, it was just great to be able to get out there and play ball at the big league level again," Ryan said after the game.

Bats Come Alive

Keider Montero earned the win, pitching four scoreless innings in relief of Ryan. Meanwhile, the Tigers offense gave the pitching staff plenty of run support.

Detroit jumped out to an early 2-0 lead in the first inning against Washington starter DJ Herz. Gleyber Torres walked, moved to second on a wild pitch, and scored on a double by Hao-Yu Lee. Lee then scored on a fielding error.

The home runs started flying in the fourth inning. Javier Baez hit a two-run homer to left field to make it 4-0. In the fifth, Ben Malgeri hit a three-run home run, and Spencer Torkelson followed with a two-run shot to push the lead to 9-0. Yohandy Morales hit a two-run home run for the Nationals in the eighth, but it was far too late.

Before the game, the Tigers also announced that Comerica Park will be renamed Fifth Third Park in 2027 due to a bank merger.

What it means for the next game

Washington Nationals at Detroit Tigers (MLB, Tue, 22 Sep): Detroit Tigers win 54%, Washington Nationals win 46%; projected score Detroit Tigers 5, Washington Nationals 4. Our safest pick: Tigers +1.5.

Washington Nationals at Detroit Tigers (MLB, Wed, 23 Sep): Detroit Tigers win 54%, Washington Nationals win 46%; projected score Detroit Tigers 5, Washington Nationals 4. Our safest pick: Tigers +1.5.