Fans and businesses are ready for the MLB playoffs to return to downtown Detroit

DETROIT (WXYZ) — For the first time in 10 years, playoff baseball is returning to downtown Detroit.

The Detroit Tigers defeated the Houston Astros 5-2 on Wednesday to advance to the AL Division Series against the Cleveland Guardians. The best-of-five series includes at least one home game at Comerica Park, with a possible second game if necessary.

VIDEO: The Tigers advance in the playoffs and eliminate the Astros

The Tigers make the playoffs and eliminate the Astros

The middle of a workday didn't stop Tigers fans from heading to the ballpark to watch the team punch their ticket to the divisional round during the Tigers' official watch party.

“It’s too small on the small screen. You have to be in the park to enjoy it.” said Donetta Smolinski of Shelby Township.

Check out our coverage of the watch party at Comerica Park in the video below:

Hundreds cheer on the Tigers at the watch party at Comerica Park

Smolinski and Edward Caudle appeared in nearly 20 games this year, including Opening Day. They are surprised to be back in the park watching baseball in October. You have already purchased tickets for the home playoff game against the Guardians.

“We were here on opening day with the snow and here we are.” Smolinski said.

While not crowded for a midweek away game, the win sets up another series for the Tigers, including potentially two home games at Comerica Park that would bring thousands of people downtown. There is already great excitement.

“The excitement in the city is so great at the moment,” said Frances Billingsley of Detroit, who attended the watch event. “Hopefully they go to the World Series. That would be great.”

“I think it goes a long way,” downtown resident William Zimmer said of the playoff run. “It brings a lot to the economy and energy of the city and young people who want to live here.”

The victory is also a victory for downtown sports bars like Harry's. Even on Wednesday, fans still had encouragement at the Comerica postgame watch party and now have another home playoff series to add.

“We got the Lions strong, we got the Tigers into the playoffs and the Wings will start next week.” said general manager Hugh Leonard. “This is the start of our busy season, so it’s even more exciting for us.”

Smolinski and Caudle think back to opening day, when they went there with their friend Eric. He had a Tigers season ticket and even played in the 1968 World Series. Unfortunately, he passed away suddenly about a month ago, just as this magical run was beginning. They hope for him, the Tigers come to the end.

“He was blind and loved the Tigers,” Caudle said of his friend. “He helps us from above.”