The Detroit Tigers are holding their collective breath as they head into the decisive Game 5 of the AL Division Series against the Cleveland Guardians.

The elephant in the room is the hamstring injury that has been plaguing slugger Kerry Carpenter, who hurt himself while running the bases in Game 4.

According to sources within the Tigers camp, the powers that be are keeping their fingers crossed that Carpenter can at least come off the bench and provide some spark if needed, even if he can’t start.

The Tigers’ training staff has been working around the clock to get Carpenter back to full strength, but the tight turnaround between games hasn’t helped their cause.

Manager A.J. Hinch expressed optimism that Carpenter would be able to contribute in some capacity, but he also made it clear that the team won’t rush him back if it means putting his health in jeopardy.

'We’ll see how Kerry feels today and make a decision from there,' Hinch said. 'We’re not going to push him to the point where we risk making the injury worse. But at the same time, we know how much he means to our lineup.'

Carpenter, for his part, has been doing everything he can to get ready for the big game.

'I’ve been getting treatment nonstop and doing my best to stay loose,' he said. 'I want to do whatever I can to help the team, even if it’s just being a bench guy.'

The Tigers will need all hands on deck as they try to advance to the AL Championship Series. The Guardians have been a thorn in their side all season, and this series has been a back-and-forth affair.

While the Tigers have home-field advantage, the pressure is still on as they try to take care of business in front of their fans.

If Carpenter can’t go, the Tigers will have to rely on other players to pick up the slack. Fortunately, they have a deep enough bench to make up for his absence.

But having Carpenter available, even in a limited capacity, would be a huge boost for the team. His presence in the lineup changes the entire dynamic of the game and forces opposing teams to adjust their strategy.

Tigers fans will be holding their breath as they wait to see what the day brings. Can Carpenter overcome his injury and help lead the team to victory, or will the Tigers have to find another way to win?