Tigers 7, Rays 6
DETROIT (WWJ/AP) - A two-run homer in the eighth by Alex Avila gave the Tigers a lead they would not relinquish, as Detroit beats the Tampa Bay Rays 7-6 on Tuesday night.
As heard on 97.1 The Ticket, the Tigers came into the eighth inning down by a run when Avila homered for the second time in the game and brought in Jhonny Peralta to take a lead into the ninth and win the second game in the three game series against the Rays.
Speaking with The Ticket post-game, second baseman Scott Sizemore talks about his play during the game: "I was looking to be more aggressive in the strike zone," says Sizemore.
Avila hit a go-ahead, two-run shot off Cesar Ramos. He had a solo drive in the sixth off starter Wade Davis.
Al Alburquerque (1-1) earned his first major league victory in his 14th appearance after getting two key outs in the eighth. He inherited a bases-loaded, one-out jam and got out of it by striking out Sean Rodriguez and getting Sam Fuld to ground into a fielder's choice.
Joaquin Benoit pitched the ninth for his first save, filling in for Jose Valverde because the Detroit closer threw 27 pitches Monday night.
Ramos (0-1) gave up hits to both batters he faced.
Tune in to 97.1 The Ticket for the last game in the series against the Tampa Bay Rays on Wednesday night.
(Copyright 2011 WWJ Newsradio 950. All Rights Reserved.) (Copyright 2011 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)