DETROIT (Interstat) — The Detroit Tigers, holding onto postseason aspirations, will host the Atlanta Braves for the start of a three-game series Friday night at Comerica Park.

First pitch is scheduled for 6:40 p.m. EDT.

The Tigers (85-68) enter the final stretch of the season in the thick of the American League playoff chase but are looking to rebound after dropping three of four at home to the Cleveland Guardians. Detroit’s offense was stifled in a 3-1 loss on Thursday, despite a strong start from ace Tarik Skubal, who allowed one earned run and struck out nine over six innings.

Conversely, the Braves (70-83) arrive in Detroit riding a wave of momentum after completing a dominant four-game sweep of the Washington Nationals. Atlanta’s bats erupted in a 9-4 victory on Wednesday, powered by a three-RBI performance from designated hitter Marcell Ozuna. Righthander Hurston Waldrep earned the win, striking out eight over five innings.

Despite their disparate records, the series opener presents a clash of recent trends. The Braves have won five of their last six games, outscoring opponents 45-14 in those victories. The Tigers have struggled at home recently, losing five of their last seven games at Comerica Park.

Interstat’s game simulator projects a 6-4 victory for the Braves, though its ELO rating system gives the Tigers a slight 54.3% probability to win. Betting markets have installed Atlanta as a road favorite with a -1.5 run spread. The over/under for total runs is set at 9.

Following this series, the Tigers will embark on a critical seven-game road trip to face the Cleveland Guardians and Boston Red Sox. The Braves will return home to conclude their season with series against the Washington Nationals and Pittsburgh Pirates.