Photo: Ed Szczepanski ~ Imagn Images
PODCAST
August 11, 2026 ~ As the season heads toward the stretch run, former Tigers catcher Lance Parrish weighs in on Detroit’s playoff chances, the team’s biggest strengths, and whether this could finally be a postseason year.
DETROIT ~ The Detroit Tigers return to Comerica Park this week with a chance to make up ground in the American League Central race. After a 7-2 road trip and three straight series wins, Detroit has climbed back into contention and enters the homestand playing some of its best baseball of the season. The Tigers sit in the middle of a tightly packed division race, making this week’s games especially important as the postseason picture begins to take shape.
The challenge begins with a three-game series against Cleveland before the Tigers welcome the first-place Chicago White Sox to Detroit. Former Tigers catcher Lance Parrish believes the club is well positioned for the stretch run. “As long as they can stay close in this division, they are going to have a chance,” Parrish said. Detroit has struggled against Cleveland this season, making the upcoming series a key opportunity to gain momentum before facing Chicago in what could be one of the biggest series at Comerica Park in recent years.
A major reason for the Tigers’ resurgence has been the development of young players. Catcher Dillon Dingler has emerged as one of Detroit’s most consistent offensive threats, leading the club with 26 home runs and 80 RBIs, while rookie shortstop Kevin McGonigle has provided a spark near the top of the lineup. Combined with strong pitching and a revitalized bullpen, the Tigers have put themselves in position to turn a successful road trip into a defining week in the playoff race. Detroit opens the homestand against Cleveland at 6:40 p.m. Tuesday.
