[Nick Soulis]

Series #1
Preliminary Round



1965 Detroit Tigers
Record: 89-73
Finish: 4th in AL
Manager: Bob Swift
Ball Park: Tiger Stadium
WAR Leader: Norm Cash (5.4)
Hall of Famers: (1)
https://www.baseball-reference.com/teams/DET/1965.shtml

2006 Cincinnati Reds
Record: 80-82
Finish: 3rd in NL Central
Manager: Garry Narron
Ball Park: Great American Ball Park
WAR Leader: Bronson Arroyo (7.0)
Hall of Famers: (1)
https://www.baseball-reference.com/teams/CIN/2006.shtml
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In a clash that transcended eras, the 1965 Detroit Tigers and the 2006 Cincinnati Reds engaged in an epic seven-game playoff series that will be etched in baseball history forever. The vintage Tigers emerged as the victors, displaying their prowess with three shutout victories, all hosted at the historic Tiger Stadium.

Game 1: Pitching Duel and Extra-Inning Drama
The series began at Tiger Stadium, where Denny McLain showcased masterful pitching, dealing nine innings of three-hit shutout ball, earning him Player of the Game (POG) honors. The Reds' Aaron Harang was valiant in his efforts, but the Tigers secured a 2-0 win in a true pitching duel.

Game 2 brought extra-inning drama, with Mickey Lolich throwing a remarkable ten innings of three-hit ball. The Tigers' resilience was on full display when Dick McCauliffe sealed the deal with a walk-off single in the 10th inning. Despite the Reds' tenacity, the Tigers prevailed with a 2-1 victory.

Game 3 and 4: Reds Mount a Comeback
The series shifted to the Great American Ball Park, where the Reds were determined to turn the tide. Javier Valentin's three-run homer ignited a six-run sixth inning surge that carried the Reds to a 4-2 triumph in Game 3. In Game 4, the Reds continued their resurgence, with Rich Aurilia's three-run blast leading a six-run outburst. Matt Belisle's exceptional pitching performance solidified the Reds' 6-3 victory, leveling the series.

Game 5 and 6: Reds Show Grit
Back at the Great American Ball Park, the Reds displayed remarkable resilience. Ken Griffey Jr. and Rich Aurilia's powerful homers, along with Norris Hopper's clutch hitting, propelled the Reds to a dramatic 7-6 win in Game 5. Game 6 saw Bronson Arroyo's complete-game gem, striking out six and sealing a 9-1 victory. Arroyo's stellar performance set the stage for a decisive Game 7.

Game 7: Tigers Claim Victory in Grand Fashion
With the series tied at three games apiece, the stage was set for a climactic showdown at Tiger Stadium. The 1965 Tigers delivered a grand finale, hitting an astonishing six home runs. Willie Horton emerged as the MVP, going 4-5, and contributing significantly to the Tigers' offensive onslaught. The Tigers secured a resounding 9-0 shutout victory, clinching the series and etching their names in the annals of baseball history.

MVP and Standout Performances
While Rich Aurilia's heroic efforts, including an impressive nine RBI, garnered recognition, it was Willie Horton who earned the series MVP honors. His .370 batting average, coupled with his standout performance in the crucial Game 7, solidified his status as the series' most valuable player.

1965 Detroit Tigers Win Series 4 Games To 3



Series MVP:

Willie Horton
(.370, 1 HR, 5 RBI)