Jake Rogers started the eighth inning with a double and broke a tie by scoring on an error, helping the Detroit Tigers edge past the AL Central-leading Cleveland Guardians with a 1-0 victory on Monday night.
The error was charged to Guardians shortstop Brayan Rocchio, who couldn’t field Mark Canha’s grounder cleanly. This allowed Rogers to score from third base after advancing on Wenceel Perez’s single.
“Jake is a smart baserunner, not the fastest, but he puts pressure on them to field cleanly and make a play,” said Tigers manager A.J. Hinch. “We were fortunate tonight.”
Rocchio, speaking through an interpreter, mentioned he was aiming to start a double play to end the inning, but the ball didn’t bounce as expected on the infield.
“That’s a play he makes 99 times out of 100,” commented Guardians manager Stephen Vogt. “Just unfortunate timing.”
Tyler Holton (4-1) earned the win and Shelby Miller secured his first save of the season by pitching a perfect ninth inning, totaling 2 2/3 innings of flawless relief.
Detroit rookie pitcher Keider Montero pitched 6 1/3 scoreless innings, allowing only three hits and one walk in his third start and fourth appearance in the majors.
“The night started with Keider,” praised Hinch. “He was outstanding.”
Cleveland’s starter, Gavin Williams, also delivered a strong performance, giving up no runs over 5 1/3 innings. The right-hander allowed four hits and one walk while striking out five, showcasing improvement after a delayed season debut due to elbow soreness.
“It was really exciting to see Gavin pitch like that,” Vogt said.
The Tigers extended their winning streak to four games, which included a sweep in Cincinnati, their first since May and only the second of the season.
