What happened: The Detroit Tigers are channeling a wave of momentum into their dugout energy, turning every high five into a rallying point during their recent run. The team enters the stretch playing its best baseball of the early summer.
Why it matters: Detroit's surge matters because a strong June has the Tigers near the top of the American League, building the kind of clubhouse confidence that can carry a contender. Sustained winning at this point in the calendar strengthens their footing in a tight playoff picture.
By the numbers: The Tigers own an AL-best 12-6 record in June and are riding a four-game winning streak.
What to watch: Watch whether Detroit can extend the streak and protect its position atop the American League as the schedule rolls on.