Detroit, MI (Sports Network) - Brennan Boesch went 2-for-3 with a triple and three runs batted in, and Detroit used six strong innings from its bullpen to take a 5-4 win over the New York Yankees in the opener of a four-game series.
Tigers’ Bullpen Holds Off Yankees Offense In 5-4 Win
Brad Thomas made a spot start for Dontrelle Willis, who was scratched because of an illness, and gave up two runs in three innings. Eddie Bonine (3-0) followed Thomas and got the win after throwing 2 1/3 scoreless innings.
Johnny Damon homered against his former team and Miguel Cabrera finished 2- for-3 with a walk for the Tigers, who were coming off a 1-4 road trip.
Mark Teixeira hit a two-run homer for the Yankees, who have lost two in a row following a six-game win streak. New York rallied for two runs in the eighth inning off Joel Zumaya, but Tigers relievers Phil Coke and Ryan Perry got Detroit out of the inning.
Jose Valverde struck out the side in the ninth for his ninth save of the season.
Sergio Mitre (0-1) started in place of Andy Pettitte, who missed the outing because of left elbow inflammation, and took the loss after allowing four runs (three earned) in 4 1/3 innings.
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