DETROIT -- The worst-case scenario for the Detroit Tigers has become reality.

The Tigers entered this week’s series against the Cleveland Guardians with a chance to clinch the American League Central with a sweep. Instead, the Guardians brought the brooms. José Ramírez hit a tiebreaking two-run homer to lead Cleveland to a 3-1 win and a three-game sweep on Thursday afternoon at Comerica Park.

The Tigers (85-68) still lead the Guardians (81-71) by 3 1/2 games, but the cushion is shrinking. The Tigers have nine games remaining, including three at Cleveland. Their magic number -- the combined number of Detroit wins and Cleveland losses needed to clinch the division -- remains stuck at seven, the same as it was when the week began.

Tigers ace Tarik Skubal did his part with a strong start,

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