DETROIT, Mich. (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 game ahead of the White Sox for first place in the AL Central. Chicago lost to the Indians, 6-4, 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