Detroit Tigers Win A.L. Central With 3-1 Victory At Oakland

Doug Fister made just one mistake last night, allowing a solo homer in the second inning to Josh Willingham. Fister only allowed two hits after that and the Tigers got some production from their role players to earn a 3-1 win over the Oakland A's which clinched the American League Central Division title. Wilson Betemit's RBI triple in the 6th put the Tigers ahead, and Don Kelly's solo homer in the 7th gave Detroit a two run cushion.
Fister went 8 strong innings, retiring 17 straight at one point. Jose Valverde collected his 45th save by getting the A's out in the 9th. As usual, he gave up a double to the first hitter he faced to bring the tying run to the plate. What would a Valverde save be without a little drama? He got the next three Oakland batters out easily and it was time for the Tigers to celebrate.
The Tigers and A's will play again this afternoon in a 4 pm contest at Oakland Colliseum. Rick Porcello will try for his 15th win of the year.

The Detroit Tigers are the American League Central Champions. Now it's time to get ready for the postseason.