Tigers embark on crazy journey to playoffs

ATLANTA — The Tigers took off from Detroit on Thursday night with what could best be called an open itinerary, thanks to a slew of playoff possibilities. They also carried on a determination to enjoy the ride into October baseball.

“If they don’t appreciate it,” manager Brad Ausmus said, “they’re missing out.”

Consider the possible destinations based on how the postseason picture develops by Sunday:

• They could be back at Comerica Park on Monday to make up Thursday’s rainout against the Indians if it means something to the playoff race.

• They could be on the road for a week, possibly with a game every day, if they have a three-team Wild Card tiebreaker, the Wild Card game and the Division Series.

• Or, they could go their separate ways and head home if they’re eliminated this weekend. What happens in three different cities over the next three days will determine how that falls. But the Tigers, who had to prepare for their trip even before knowing for sure that Thursday’s game would be rained out, had to prepare for every possibility.

“I packed for eight [days],” Cameron Maybin said. “That’s how a lot of guys are thinking. I packed very heavy for this trip. I’m hoping it’s a long road trip.”

Ian Kinsler, for his part, packed for four.

“Come to the field, take it off, put it back on and go home,” Kinsler …

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