CLEVELAND — The Detroit Tigers made their decision.

It was the most logical choice.

Right-hander Troy Melton will start Thursday, Sept. 25, in the finale of the three-game series against the Cleveland Guardians at Progressive Field. If the Tigers lose, then the Tigers' chances of winning the American League Central all but vanish.

"We got to sort it out," manager A.J. Hinch said after Wednesday's 5-1 loss , when asked about the pitching plan for Thursday's game, "so it'll be a long night." JEFF SEIDEL: Guardians have found magic touch, evicting Tigers out of AL Central penthouse Expert MLB daily picks: Unique MLB betting insights only at USA TODAY

Melton, a 24-year-old who made his MLB debut in late July, owns a 2.79 ERA with 13 walks and 35 strikeouts across 42 innings i

See Full Page