Wednesday night's game at Citi Field isn't just another midweek matchup—it's a chance for the Detroit Tigers to prove they can bounce back. After a brutal 10-2 loss to the New York Mets on Tuesday, the Tigers are looking to even the series and get back on track.
Tuesday's game was a tough watch for Tigers fans. Starter Jack Flaherty lasted just 3 2/3 innings, giving up three runs, but it was Detroit's anemic offense that really sealed the deal. The Motor City Kitties managed only two runs against a Mets team that seemed to have their number all night.
But here's where things get interesting. The Tigers are getting their No. 2 starter back from suspension: left-hander Framber Valdez. The 32-year-old has had a rollercoaster season so far, with a 4.57 ERA and a 2-2 record. His last outing was one of the worst of his career—he allowed 10 runs (seven earned) on nine hits, including three home runs, before a bean-ball incident earned him a five-game suspension.
However, Valdez has a history of success against the Mets. The last time he faced them was on Opening Day 2025, when he was still with the Houston Astros. In that game, he threw seven shutout innings, allowing just four hits and two walks while striking out four. He did hit a batter, though—something to keep an eye on given his recent suspension.
On the other side, the Mets will send right-hander Christian Scott to the mound. Scott is making his fourth start of the season, and his season has been a tale of two starts. In his debut, he lasted just 1 1/3 innings after walking five batters, hitting another, and even balking. But his next two outings were much better, as he threw five and 4 2/3 innings, respectively, with a 2.79 and 2.50 FIP while striking out 14 batters.
Scott has only pitched 12 games in his major league career, and none of them have come against the Tigers. That could work in Detroit's favor, as the young right-hander will be facing a lineup he's never seen before.
For fans looking to catch the action, here are the details:
Game 43 Preview
Time (ET): 7:10 p.m.
Place: Citi Field, Queens, New York
TV: Detroit SportsNet, MLB.TV
Radio: Tigers Radio Network
Pitching Matchup:
LHP Framber Valdez (2-2, 4.57 ERA) vs. RHP Christian Scott (0-0, 3.27 ERA)
Will Valdez's return spark a turnaround for the Tigers, or will Scott continue his recent hot streak? Tune in to find out. Whether you're watching from the stands or from home, make sure you're repping your team's colors—because every game counts in the long grind of a baseball season.