The Guardians came out swinging in Game 1 of the ALDS as their bats built an insurmountable lead early. However, the Tigers are set to punch back with Tarik Skubal in Game 2.
See how to take advantage of the starters with my Tigers vs Guardians player props for Game 2 on Monday, Oct. 7.
Tigers vs Guardians Player Props Game 2
- Josh Naylor Under 0.5 Total Bases (+135, bet365)
- Matthew Boyd Over 4.5 Strikeouts (-145, DraftKings)
Josh Naylor Player Props: Tough Matchup for Guardians' Slugger
Josh Naylor Under 0.5 Total Bases (+135)
Tarik Skubal has arguably been the best pitcher in baseball this season, and he's a tough matchup for every hitter. However, Skubal will be especially tough on Guardians first baseman Josh Naylor.
Naylor has really struggled against lefties this season, hitting just .223 with a .185 ISO. Compare that to his average of .253 and ISO of .226 against righties to really put his splits into perspective.
Since these two clubs are division rivals, Skubal and Naylor have faced off a number of times. Thus far, Skubal has dominated, as Naylor is only 1 for 9 with a single.
Matthew Boyd Player Props: Revenge Game Prop Pick
Matthew Boyd Over 4.5 Strikeouts (-145)
For our second selection, we are backing Guardians starter Matthew Boyd. He will pitch against his old club this afternoon and has been very efficient in his starts with Cleveland.
Boyd has struck out at least five batters in six of his eight starts this season, and he's done so while averaging 76 pitches per start. With an off day in the series, the Cleveland bullpen is expected to factor into this game early, as Boyd's out prop is just 11.2.
However, we should see Boyd succeed against a Tigers lineup that is 23rd in wRC+, 26th in OBP, and has the seventh-highest strikeout rate against lefties. This should extend his leash into the fifth inning and give him a great opportunity to go over this total.
