Detroit Tigers
Colorado Rockies
The Colorado Rockies and the Detroit Tigers are set to square off in a critical double-header today at Coors Field. After their contest yesterday, which the Tigers won by a score of 8-6, the Rockies find themselves at the bottom of the standings with a dismal 6-29 record this season. Meanwhile, the Tigers are thriving, boasting a 23-13 record and showing potential as contenders in the American League.
In this matchup, Kyle Freeland is projected to take the mound for the Rockies. Freeland, who has a 0-4 record and an ERA of 5.70, has struggled this season, despite indications that he might be due for some positive regression. His xFIP of 3.37 suggests he has faced an unusual amount of bad luck. However, he will need to navigate a tough Tigers lineup that has been one of the best in MLB, ranking 6th overall with 47 home runs this season.
On the other side, Casey Mize will be on the hill for the Tigers. Mize, currently holding a 5-1 record and an impressive ERA of 2.70, has shown solid form this year. Yet, the projections indicate he might be slightly overperforming, as his xFIP sits at 4.13. His ability to keep the ball on the ground will be tested against a Rockies offense that ranks 29th in runs and 30th in batting average this season.
As both teams prepare for this pivotal series, the Rockies will look to their best hitter, who has been exceptionally hot recently, posting a .471 batting average over the last week. Despite their struggles, they may find a glimmer of hope against Mize, who, while effective, has had his own challenges. The Tigers, favored in this matchup, will aim to keep their momentum rolling and extend their lead in the standings.