After a tough back-and-forth loss to the Cleveland Guardians in game 4 on Thursday, the Detroit Tigers are preparing for their most important game to date on Saturday.
The Tigers lost to the Guardians 5-4 on Thursday to tie up the series 2-2 heading into game 5.
A couple of the Tigers key players in their lineup were banged up in the game 4 loss, but they received some encouraging news regarding their backstop.
Veteran Detroit News sportswriter Chris McCosky shared updates on Tigers catcher Jake Rogers and his wrist injury.
“X-rays were negative on Jake Rogers. Left wrist. Got hit twice there yesterday. But he’s good to go,” McCosky said.
X rays were negative on Jake Rogers. Left wrist. Got hit twice there yesterday. But he’s good to go
— Chris McCosky (@cmccosky) October 11, 2024
Catching is arguably the most important position on the diamond defensively for teams.
A solid defensive catcher can save multiple runs per game with their ability to block balls in the dirt, throw out runners, and call strategic pitches behind the plate.
Rogers has struggled a bit at the plate this series as he has 2 hits in 10 at-bats with 1 double, 2 runs scored, 3 walks, and 5 strikeouts.
The Tigers are likely more concerned with Rogers being able to play the field however as he caught for starter Tarik Skubal in the Tigers game 2 victory.
Cathers consistently take a beating behind the plate, and Rogers will look to play through the pain in the most important game of the season.
The Tigers are seeking their first American League Championship Series appearance since 2013 and their first World Series appearance since they were swept in 2012 by the San Francisco Giants.
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