Tigers 9, White Sox 7: Detroit spoils Chicago’s home opener

The Detroit Tigers recorded their second victory of the season on a cold, snowy day in Chicago, mounting a comeback to defeat the Chicago White Sox in extra innings at Guaranteed Rate Field.

The Tigers’ Opening Day version of Jordan Zimmermann failed to arrive, and the White Sox jumped on him early. He would last just 4 ¹⁄₃ innings before departing, surrendering six runs, including two in the bottom of the first, on nine hits. The Tigers picked up a run here and there against James Shields as the White Sox kept themselves ahead, entering the ninth inning with a 7-4 lead.

Facing Joakim Soria, Niko Goodrum launched his first career home run to right field to bring the Tigers within one run. Nicholas Castellanos would reach on a single and would come around to score the tying run on a double from Victor Martinez. Joe Jimenez kept the White Sox at bay in the bottom half of the inning to force extras.

Following a Mikie Mahtook leadoff single, Jose Iglesias walk, and Dixon Machado sac fly, Leonys Martin grounded into what was seemingly a fielder’s choice (overturned upon review) to knock in Mahtook as the go-ahead run. Jeimer Candelario extended the lead with a solid single to left field.

After striking out the first two batters in the 10th, Shane Greene surrendered a walk and hit a batter, but promptly slammed the door with his third strikeout of the inning, securing a comeback victory for the Tigers.

Offensive heroes

Victor Martinez continued his quest for resurgence at the plate, notching three hits including an RBI single and the game-tying double, a welcomed sight after the 39-year-old’s struggles in 2017. Castellanos added three hits of his own while scoring two runs, and Mahtook looked more comfortable at the plate as he looks to get things rolling.

But Thursday’s victory belonged to the youngsters. Both of Machado’s hits were doubles, giving him five on the still-young season. Goodrum’s first career home run couldn’t have come at a more important moment, shifting momentum into the Tigers’ court as time was running out.

Daniel Norris debuts

During his 3 ¹⁄₃ innings of work, Norris looked sharp despite one spot of trouble. His six strikeouts and one hit were the result of good movement on breaking pitches and solid command of his fastball. He looked a bit more wild after surrendering a walk to Matt Davidson, leading to an RBI double by Leury Garcia in the seventh, but he calmed down to retire the side without further damage, allowing the Tigers to mount their comeback.

Health scare

Miguel Cabrera made an early exit from Thursday’s game after slipping while taking a turn around first base following a base hit in the first inning. The injury was reported as left hip flexor tightness. He is listed as day-to-day.

On deck

After an off-day on Friday, the Tigers will be back in action against the White Sox in the second of a three-game series. Michael Fulmer will look to build on his strong first start as he faces off against Lucas Giolito. You can watch on Fox Sports Detroit or catch the radio call on your local affiliate of the Detroit Tigers’ radio network.