ALDS Game 2 Preview: Key Matchups, Starting Pitchers, and X-Factors

The Seattle Mariners face a pivotal moment in the 2025 American League Division Series as they prepare for Game 2 against the Detroit Tigers.

After a heartbreaking 11-inning loss in Game 1, the Mariners want nothing more than to even the series. The pitching matchup brings two distinct arms — Detroit’s ace Tarik Skubal, a Cy Young winner still in his prime, and Seattle’s steady Luis Castillo.

Key lineup changes and the quirks of T-Mobile Park’s pitcher-friendly setup could shape the night in Seattle.

Tarik Skubal Returns to Seattle with Dominant Arsenal

Detroit hands the ball to Tarik Skubal, and his return to Seattle feels personal — this is where he made his name in college.

Skubal’s last two seasons have shown off his command and ability to keep hitters guessing.

Why Skubal is the Game’s Most Dangerous Lefty

Armed with a high-octane fastball and a devastating changeup, Skubal forces hitters into constant misjudgment.

He attacks both sides of the plate and changes eye levels, making him one of baseball’s toughest matchups. The Mariners have to stay sharp and maybe a bit lucky to get to him.

Luis Castillo’s Strategic Advantage at Home

Seattle turns to Luis Castillo for Game 2, and it’s not just a matter of rotation — it’s about ballpark fit.

Castillo has shifted his approach, relying more on his four-seam fastball and a sharper slider these days. That’s led to more fly balls than grounders, a noticeable change from his earlier years.

T-Mobile Park’s Home Run Suppression Factor

That fly-ball trend might spell trouble elsewhere, but T-Mobile Park rarely gives up cheap home runs.

This could blunt Detroit’s power and turn would-be homers into routine outs. The Mariners hope their home field helps Castillo keep the ball in the yard.

Seattle’s Lineup Adjustments for Left-Handed Pitching

Facing a lefty as nasty as Skubal means Seattle has to get creative.

Manager Scott Servais is tweaking the order, looking for right-handed punch and just a bit more spark.

Mitch Garver Gets the Call at DH

Garver steps in for Dominic Canzone at DH, thanks to his better numbers against lefties.

It’s a move that should give the Mariners’ lineup a little more bite and maybe some needed protection for the middle order.

Another switch: Josh Naylor drops in the order, now hitting behind Jorge Polanco and Eugenio Suárez.

Naylor’s still available, even as he keeps an eye on his phone — his wife could go into labor any day, but he’s sticking around for Game 2.

Detroit’s Consistency and Return of Colt Keith

The Tigers roll out the same lineup from Game 1, sticking with their core of Kerry Carpenter, Riley Greene, and Spencer Torkelson.

This group brings balance and pop, always capable of changing a game with one swing.

Impact of Colt Keith’s Return from IL

Keith’s back from injury and slots in to add depth to Detroit’s order.

He’s another steady bat who can wear down pitchers and stretch out innings. For a team built on run prevention, that extra lineup support might just matter in a tight playoff game.

Key Factors That Will Decide Game 2

This showdown comes down to pitching, timely hits, and lineup chess.

Seattle needs to find a way to break through against Skubal and use their home park’s quirks. Detroit’s counting on their ace to keep the Mariners’ offense in check.

• Pitching Battle: Skubal’s elite stuff versus Castillo’s fit for T-Mobile Park.
• Offensive Adjustments: Garver at DH and new order spots for Seattle’s hitters.
• Lineup Depth: Colt Keith’s healthy return gives Detroit another weapon.
• Momentum: Mariners are looking to bounce back after that draining Game 1 loss.

Where and When to Watch

First pitch for Game 2 lands at 5:03 p.m. PT, and you can catch the broadcast nationally on FS1. If you’re in Seattle, tune in to Seattle Sports 710 AM for radio coverage.

The Mariners have their backs against the wall here. It’s a must-win if they want to keep their playoff hopes alive.

Both teams bring clear strengths to the table. Game 2 feels like it’s loaded with drama and nerves.

Maybe Skubal’s precision will shine, or maybe Castillo’s risky fly-ball style pays off. Either way, this clash could totally flip the momentum for the rest of the series.

 
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