Detroit, MI (Sports Network) - Prince Fielder homered and Justin Verlander tossed eight solid innings, as the Detroit Tigers defeated the Kansas City Royals, 6-2, in the opener of a four-game series.

Andy Dirks knocked in two runs for the Tigers, who are one-half game behind the White Sox for first place in the AL Central. Chicago is playing the Indians on Monday.

Verlander (16-8) gave up two runs on nine hits while striking out eight for Detroit, which snapped a two-game skid. The right-hander improved to 12-7 in 23 career starts against Kansas City.

Alex Gordon hit a solo homer for the Royals, who have lost two straight since a four-game winning streak. Billy Butler went 3-for-4 with an RBI.

Luke Hochevar (8-15) allowed six runs -- five earned -- on 12 hits over 7 1/3 innings. He fell to 1-6 over his last 10 starts.

GAME NOTES:

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