Tarik Skubal is the best pitcher in baseball, demonstrating his elite skills during the MLB wild-card Game 1s. As October rolls in, baseball fans know one thing for sure: the postseason is bound to be thrilling. It all kicked off Tuesday with four wild-card matchups.
The first day of the postseason has already delivered excitement, highlighted by the Tigers, Royals, and Mets all securing victories on the road.
Let the games commence!
METS 8, BREWERS 4
Mets continue their winning ways
Is it possible for the Mets to register a straightforward playoff win? After the drama of Monday’s doubleheader, securing Game 1 against the Brewers was crucial, especially with Edwin Diaz likely unavailable after heavy usage in previous games. This victory set the right tone for their postseason journey in Milwaukee.
Two key aspects stood out during this win. First, Luis Severino excelled at making in-game adjustments after allowing two runs in the first inning. Known for his tendency to struggle in playoff settings—evidenced by a 5.15 ERA in 11 playoff starts with the Yankees—he managed to maintain his composure and keep the game competitive for New York’s offense.
Second, while Francisco Lindor’s ninth-inning homer against the Braves on Sunday was a storybook moment, the Mets’ playoff success stems from their collective effort throughout the season. Freddy Peralta was pulled after just four innings, having thrown 68 pitches in Game 1.
The Mets shine brightest when players like Mark Vientos, who delivered the go-ahead hit in the fifth inning, and Jesse Winker, who tied the game with a two-RBI triple in the second, step up. This season has been defined by teamwork, allowing New York to consistently find new heroes to deliver crucial hits. — Deesha Thosar
TIGERS 3, ASTROS 1
Tigers secure a must-win
The Tigers’ remarkable end-of-season surge—31 wins and only 13 losses in their last 44 games, alongside a major league-leading 2.72 ERA—was impressive. Their success relied heavily on ace Tarik Skubal, who anchored a rotation primarily made up of multi-inning relievers. As manager AJ Hinch shared with reporters before the wild-card series, “Our plan is Tarik Skubal tomorrow and pitching chaos the rest of the way.”
The Tigers have proven they can thrive in chaos, but relying solely on unpredictability is challenging. Winning the game with Skubal on the mound was essential. He provided the stability needed in Detroit’s rotation, and in his first playoff appearance, the triple crown winner delivered.
Looking ahead, the Tigers have other starters available, such as Reese Olson and Casey Mize, but the upcoming games will likely showcase a variety of pitchers. Expect to see Tyler Holton, who had an impressive 0.83 ERA in the second half, making appearances, possibly even closing out games.
For the Astros, there’s no need for panic. They maintain a clear advantage in their pitching rotation and have the experience to navigate the postseason. However, the youthful Tigers, making their first playoff appearance since 2014 after a strong finish to the season, seem unfazed. — Rowan Kavner
Skubal is just getting started
Tarik Skubal and the Tigers came ready to compete. Even aside from the necessity of winning Game 1 with their ace pitching, this young and ambitious team made it clear they will be formidable opponents throughout the series.
Skubal’s quick pitching style, combined with his powerful arsenal, gives him an edge. His fast delivery allows him to maintain his mechanics while minimizing the hitters’ time to adjust. His six scoreless innings on Tuesday showcased precisely why he earned the pitcher’s triple crown. — Deesha Thosar
ROYALS 1, ORIOLES 0
The Orioles had high hopes for Corbin Burnes when they acquired him in the offseason. In a critical postseason game, he delivered eight solid innings for the first time this year, holding a struggling Royals lineup to just one run. This performance should have set a positive tone for the Orioles as they began their postseason journey.
Unfortunately, it wasn’t enough.
With this loss, the Orioles now find themselves on a nine-game postseason losing streak, and memories of last year’s sweep are likely to haunt them.
Stay tuned for insights on the Braves-Padres matchup.
