Detroit Tigers 4, Cleveland Indians 1: Game 18 Player of the Game

After a 13-1 beating last night stretched their losing streak to four games, the Detroit Tigers got back in the win column with a solid all-around effort today. They jumped out to a 2-0 lead in the first inning and cruised to a 4-1 victory over the Cleveland Indians, who were forced to use lefthander T.J. House instead of scheduled starter Trevor Bauer due to an illness.

Victor Martinez led the way for the Tigers' offense, driving in the first three runs of the game with two singles. Miguel Cabrera was walked four times (three intentionally) in front of Martinez on the day, setting up the veteran switch-hitter for a big day. Victor raised his batting average to .239, but he is still getting on base at a .361 clip.

Alfredo Simon became the first Tigers starter to win four games on the season after another strong effort. He held the Tribe to one run in 6 2/3 innings, allowing six hits. Michael Brantley had three of those hits, including an RBI single in the third. Simon closed the door the rest of the way, retiring 12 of the final 15 hitters he faced. He did not allow more than a baserunner per inning in his final four frames.

Rajai Davis helped key the Tigers' attack, getting on base four times in five plate appearances. Davis stole three bases and scored three runs in his first start since Monday's game against the New York Yankees.

Ian Kinsler had a pair of hits and a walk today, and added an RBI on a double in the fourth inning. Kinsler also scored a run in the first inning, and started a crucial 4-6-3 double play to get the Tigers out of a one-out jam in the eighth inning.

Game 16 Player of the Game

Anibal Sanchez had an encouraging outing on Thursday, allowing one run in 6 1/3 innings. He walked four batters but struck out eight, and ended up with a no-decision in a 2-1 loss to the Yankees. There was no Player of the Game on Friday.