The New York Yankees and Detroit Tigers are set to face off in the decisive third game of the 2024 MLB Little League Classic this Sunday evening. With the series currently tied at 1-1, anticipation is high as both teams gear up for what promises to be a thrilling conclusion at Journey Bank Ballpark in Williamsport, Pennsylvania.
Series Recap
The Yankees seized the early advantage by clinching a 3-0 victory in the series opener on Friday, but the Tigers roared back with a 4-0 win on Saturday, leveling the playing field. As game three approaches, the stakes couldn't be higher for both squads.
Current Standings and Records
The Yankees come into the game leading the American League East with an impressive record of 73-51. Their dominance against the AL Central has been particularly noteworthy, posting a 20-4 record this season. On the other hand, the Tigers are fourth in the AL Central with a 60-64 record, though they have held their own against AL East teams with a 10-9 record.
Pitching Matchup
Sunday’s pitching duel will feature two compelling narratives. Detroit’s Tarik Skubal, with a stellar 14-4 record and a 2.53 ERA, has been a force on the mound. Skubal's season stats reflect his effectiveness: 149.1 innings pitched, 180 strikeouts, and only 42 earned runs allowed. Moreover, he has been particularly hot in recent games, winning six of his last seven decisions.
For the Yankees, Marcus Stroman will take the mound. Stroman holds an 8-6 record with a 4.01 ERA this season. He has allowed 118 hits and 54 earned runs over 121.1 innings, striking out 87 batters. In his last outing, Stroman pitched five solid innings and conceded just one earned run, helping the Yankees to an 8-7 victory over the Texas Rangers.
It's worth noting that Stroman’s previous encounter with the Tigers ended in a no-decision during a victory for the Yankees back in May. In that game, Stroman pitched 5.1 innings, allowing three hits and one earned run, indicating that this upcoming contest might be a closely matched affair.
Key Players to Watch
Detroit's rising star infielder Colt Keith made a significant impact in Saturday's game, going 2-for-4 with an RBI. This season, Keith is batting .251 with 11 doubles, three triples, 11 homers, and 44 RBI in 112 games. His performance in night games has also been impressive, boasting four doubles, three triples, and seven homers under the lights.
New York’s slugger Aaron Judge is also on a hot streak, currently riding a six-game hitting streak. Judge has showcased consistency and power, with four multi-hit performances in his last six games. On Friday, he went 3-for-3 with a homer and two runs scored, followed by a double in Saturday’s game. For the season, Judge is hitting .332 with 29 doubles, one triple, 44 homers, and 111 RBI over 122 games.
Game Outlook
The first pitch is scheduled for 7:10 p.m. ET, and the latest odds have Detroit as a -123 favorite, with the over/under set at 7.5 runs. According to the SportsLine Projection Model, the game is forecasted to see a combined 8.6 runs, which suggests an exciting and closely contested showdown.
As both teams bring their best to the field, Sunday's decisive game promises to be an electrifying event that will leave fans at Journey Bank Ballpark and those watching at home on the edge of their seats.