Detroit, MI (Sports Network) - A bases-loaded groundout in the bottom of the ninth by Alex Avila plated Don Kelly with the winning run, as the Detroit Tigers completed a four-game sweep over the Kansas City Royals with a 5-4 victory at Comerica Park.
Kelvin Herrera entered the game with runners on first and second with one out, then Royals third baseman Mike Moustakas bobbled a Jhonny Peralta grounder, leaving the bases loaded. Avila followed with a sharp grounder to first, and though KC first baseman Brayan Pena made a diving stop and tagged the bag, pinch-runner Kelly scored easily.
It made a winner of Joaquin Benoit (5-3), who served up a game-tying homer to Billy Butler in the top of the ninth.
Tim Collins (5-4) took the loss, charged with the deciding run while recording just one out.
Tigers starter Doug Fister appeared to be in line for the victory after tossing 7 2/3 strong innings. However, he did manage to set a new American League record by fanning nine straight batters.
The Sports Network