Tigers Face Chaos in Game 1, Vow to Fight Back

Despite a strong start to the season, the Detroit Tigers were overwhelmed by the Chicago White Sox in Game 1 of their AL Division Series, losing 5-3. Tigers manager A.J. Hinch has promised the team will fight back in Game 2.

CLEVELAND -- The Detroit Tigers, who entered the AL Division Series with high hopes, suffered a disappointing 5-3 defeat to the Chicago White Sox in Game 1 on Saturday. The Tigers, who had a strong regular season and won the AL Central title, were overwhelmed by the White Sox's offensive onslaught, which featured a three-run homer by Jose Abreu in the fourth inning.

Tigers manager A.J. Hinch spoke about the challenges his team faced in Game 1 and expressed confidence that they will bounce back in Game 2.

Tigers Face Chaos in Game 1, Vow to Fight Back

"It was just one game," Hinch said. "We're not going to panic. We're going to go out there and fight back. We have a great team, and we believe in ourselves."

The Tigers' pitching staff struggled to contain the White Sox's potent lineup, allowing five runs on eight hits. Starter Casey Mize, who had been a key part of the Tigers' success during the regular season, was charged with four runs in 3 2/3 innings.

Hinch acknowledged that the Tigers need to improve their pitching execution in Game 2.

"We need to throw strikes," Hinch said. "We need to get ahead of hitters and make them uncomfortable. When we do that, we're a tough team to beat."

The Tigers' offense also had its struggles in Game 1, managing only three runs on five hits. Star slugger Miguel Cabrera was held hitless in four at-bats.

Hinch said that the Tigers need to be more aggressive at the plate and take advantage of their scoring opportunities.

"We had some chances to score more runs," Hinch said. "We need to be more patient and take the pitches we want to hit. When we do that, we'll put up more runs."

The Tigers are scheduled to face the White Sox in Game 2 of the AL Division Series on Sunday. They will need to play a cleaner game in all facets if they want to keep their playoff hopes alive.

"We're facing a tough opponent, but we believe in ourselves," Hinch said. "We're going to go out there and give it our all. We're going to fight back."