Detroit, MI (Sports Network) - Pinch-runner Don Kelly scored the go-ahead run
in the eighth inning, helping the Detroit Tigers sneak past the Kansas City
Royals, 5-4, in the third test of a four-game series.
With runners on the corners and one out, Jhonny Peralta hit a grounder to Mike
Moustakas. The third baseman threw to second in an attempt to start a double
play. Andy Dirks, though, made a great slide into second base to prevent a
throw to first. Kelly scored on the play to give Detroit the lead.
Jose Valverde tossed a scoreless ninth to secure the victory for the Tigers,
who moved a half-game ahead of the White Sox for first place in the AL
Central. Chicago is playing the Indians on Wednesday.
Alex Avila and Austin Jackson homered for Detroit, which has won the first
three games in this series.
Rick Porcello got the start for the Tigers and gave up four runs on seven hits
over four innings. Joaquin Benoit (4-3) tossed a scoreless eighth to pick up
the win.
Jeff Francoeur hit a solo homer for the Royals, who have dropped four
straight. David Lough, Alex Gordon and Billy Butler added an RBI apiece.
Kansas City starter Jeremy Guthrie allowed four runs on seven hits over seven
innings. Kelvin Herrera (4-3) gave up one run on two hits in the eighth to
take the loss.
The Sports Network