For much of the summer, the Tigers looked all but certain to win the American League Central. But as the regular season nears its end, the Guardians have improbably surged back into the race.

Now, just one game separates the two clubs entering a pivotal three-game series starting tonight in Cleveland .

Before they square off, here are nine facts and figures that explain the unbelievable swing in the AL Central race.

We've already mentioned Williams' contributions, but the Guardians' rotation also has gotten a lift from rookies Parker Messick and Joey Cantillo , and their bullpen really hasn't missed closer Emmanuel Clase , who has been on non-disciplinary paid leave since late July while MLB continues its sports betting investigation. Cleveland leads MLB with a 3.38 ERA sinc

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