You know those dramatic series finales that keep us on the edge of our seats? Well, the Major League Baseball (MLB) has just turned up the heat on the upcoming do-or-die Game 5 between the Tigers and Guardians. The game, initially planned for a 4:38 p.m. ET start, then adjusted to 8:08 p.m. ET, has been rescheduled for even earlier—1:08 p.m. ET. Why the change, you ask? Blame it on Mother Nature! The forecast suggests rain is likely to pour by the evening, so a morning start gives both teams a fair shot at victory without worrying about rescheduling the next round.

The Tigers are banking on their star pitcher, Tarik Skubal, to lead them to the American League Championship Series (ALCS). Skubal is tipped to be the favorite for the Cy Young Award, so the Tigers have a great ace up their sleeve. The Guardians, on the other hand, haven't announced their starter yet, but Game 2's pitcher, Matthew Boyd, might return on regular rest.

This isn’t the first time weather has thrown a wrench into MLB’s plans. Just last week, the final games of the Mets-Braves series were delayed due to Hurricane Helene. The Guardians forced this Game 5 with a thrilling comeback in Game 4, thanks to David Fry’s two-out, two-run homer. The series has been quite the rollercoaster, with each team winning one game in Cleveland and the Tigers claiming a stunning 3-0 win in Game 2.

With the ALCS starting Monday in New York, the league wants to avoid any further delays. The Tigers haven't been to the ALCS in 11 years, and the Guardians are aiming for their first final four appearance since 2016. It’s a tense moment for both teams, with the Tigers being slight favorites for Game 5.

Weather's Affect on Tigers-Guardians Game 5

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