MLB Wild Card Series

BBC Sport

Image source, Getty Images

Yordan Alvarez is back in the Houston Astros line-up at designated hitter after a right knee sprain, while Framber Valdez will be the starting pitcher for the home team. Justin Verlander has not been included in the Astros post-season roster.

Triple Crown winning pitcher Tarik Skubal will start on the mound for the Detroit Tigers, who opt for a line-up heavy on left-handers with Andy Ibañez included and Kerry Carpenter left out.

Detroit Tigers: 1. Matt Vierling 3B; 2. Justyn-Henry Molloy DH; 3. Riley Greene LF; 4. Andy Ibañez 2B; 5. Wenceel Perez RF; 6. Spencer Torkelson 1B; 7. Parker Meadows CF; 8. Jake Rogers C; 9. Trey Sweeney SS

Houston Astros: 1. Jose Altuve 2B; 2. Yordan Alavrez DH; 3. Kyle Tucker RF; 4. Alex Bregman 3B; 5. Yainer Diaz C; 6. Jeremy Peña SS; 7. Victor Caratini 1B; 8.Mauricio Dubon LF; 9. Jake Meyers CF

Starting Pitchers: Tarik Skubal (DET) & Framber Valdez (HOU)