Game 3 Preview: Can the Tigers sweep the Padres?

The Detroit Tigers have kicked off the 2026 marketing campaign robust, having already clinched the season-opening sequence in opposition to the San Diego Padres with a 5-2 win on Friday evening. On Saturday, they go for the sweep, which might full the reversal of final season’s begin.

So far, the guests have outscored the dwelling workforce, 13-4, behind strong performances by Tarik Skubal and Framber Valdez, respectively. Rookie Kevin McGonigle added two extra hits to his team-leading whole of 5 and shares the workforce lead of 4 RBIs with Dillon Dingler.

Next up in the rotation is right-hander Jack Flaherty, who takes the mound reverse of fellow righty Randy Vásquez on Saturday. Here is a quick take a look at how they match up.

Detroit Tigers (2-0) vs. San Diego Padres (0-2)

Game 3: RHP Jack Flaherty (0-0, 0.00 ERA) vs. RHP Randy Vásquez (0-0, 0.00 ERA)

* word: Stats in the desk beneath are Fangraphs’ 2026 projections