
Spoelstra: No need to penalize Ball any further
Erik Spoelstra supports no further penalties for LaMelo Ball after flagrant foul.
The Detroit Tigers aim to clinch their second consecutive series win against the Kansas City Royals after winning four straight games. They will play at Comerica Park, where they have a strong home record of 6-1 this season.
Not too long ago, it felt like the Detroit Tigers would never win again. After a five-game losing streak, the Motor City Kitties have now won four straight after taking the series opener from the Kansas City Royals on Tuesday night, 2-1.
AJ Hinch and Co. have a chance to get back to the .500 mark and clinch their second straight series win on Wednesday night at Comerica Park, where they are 6-1 so far this season. The lone loss came against the St. Louis Cardinals two Sundays ago, which kicked off the recent schneid that has since been snapped.
The Tigers have right-hander Jack Flaherty, who is still looking for his mojo in 2026, lined up for the start against fellow righty Seth Lugo, who has looked good so far this year. Here is a look at how they match up.
Time (ET): 6:40 p.m.
Place: Comerica Park, Detroit, Michigan
SB Nation Site: Royals Review
Media: Detroit SportsNet, MLB.TV, Tigers Radio Network
Game 18: RHP Jack Flaherty (0-1, 5.14 ERA) vs. RHP Seth Lugo (1-1, 1.53 ERA)
| Player | G | IP | K% | BB% | GB% | FIP | fWAR |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Flaherty | 3 | 14.0 | 21.2 | 16.7 | 32.4 | 5.07 | 0.1 |
| Lugo | 3 | 17.2 | 20.3 | 8.7 | 43.8 | 2.57 | 0.5 |
FLAHERTY
LUGO
The Detroit Tigers have a record of 8-9, while the Kansas City Royals are at 7-10.
Jack Flaherty is set to start for the Tigers, while Seth Lugo will pitch for the Royals.
The Tigers have won four consecutive games leading up to their matchup against the Royals.

Erik Spoelstra supports no further penalties for LaMelo Ball after flagrant foul.
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