Detroit Tigers overcome Texas Rangers 2-1 – MLB News
Detroit Tigers showed great courage and determination when they fought back to overcome the mighty Texas Rangers 2-1 at Rangers Ballpark in Arlington, Texas on Friday, May 17, in Game 2 of their three match series
of the 2013 Major League Baseball regular season.
With their win, the Tigers improved their record to 23-17 and reclaimed their top position at the top of American League Central Division standings table. A lot of credit should be given to the pitching rotation
for executing the game plan to perfection.
Tigers’ pitching line-up showed just what they are capable of, as they allowed just one run to Texas in hitting-friendly conditions. Starting pitcher Rick Porcello led from the front as he created all sorts of
problems for the Rangers’ batting lineup. Overall, he allowed just five hits and one run in five plus innings to grab his second win of the season. Striking out batters at regular intervals, he completely outpitched his counterpart from the Rangers.
Relief pitchers Jose Ortega, Drew Smyly, Joaquin Benoit and Jose Valverde all made valuable contributions as they combined to toss up three scoreless innings to help the Tigers hold on to their slim lead.
"We had some opportunities and we were able to score just enough runs to beat them today," Detroit catcher Alex Avila said. "And on the flip side, our guys were able to keep it at a minimum when they had opportunities.
We were able to get out of big jams."
"You don't expect a 2-1 ballgame in this ballpark too many times," Detroit Tigers’ Manager Leyland said in a post game interview. "It's a lightning rod and you can hit it out of here at any time."
Valverde, who had a forgettable time on the mound in 2012, registered his fourth save of the season after pitching the perfect ninth. Tigers’ third baseman and 2012 American League Most Valuable Player, Miguel
Cabrera, provided his team with a perfect start as he doubled to deep left in the fifth inning. Alex Avila hit a sacrifice fly to centre to double the lead to 2-0.
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