While the Braves and Nationals kicked things off for the N.L., it was the Tigers and Yankees who, Thursday afternoon, began the A.L.'s long slate. And behind a strong effort from the bullpen and a pair of home runs, New York was able to double up on Detroit by a 6-3 final score.
Tigers Vs. Yankees: Mark Teixeira, Curtis Granderson Power New York To Opening Day Win
The showdown of Justin Verlander against CC Sabathia didn't quite live up to its potential. While the two aces combined for 15 strikeouts, each allowed three runs and lasted just six innings. The Tigers chipped away at Sabathia, while the Yankees did their damage in the bottom of the third when Mark Teixeira teed off for a three-run homer.
But while neither starter threw at 100%, this was a tight tie game entering the bottom of the seventh. And it was then that Curtis Granderson stepped in against new reliever Phil Coke and pulled an impressive solo shot to right center. That homer put the Yankees out in front, and they'd only add on further against Coke and Ryan Perry.
Joba Chamberlain was credited with the win, and he, Rafael Soriano and Mariano Rivera combined for three perfect innings to close things out on the mound. Just the way the Yankees drew things up.
The series resumes on Saturday, with Brad Penny opposing A.J. Burnett.
For more on the Tigers and Yankees, please check out team blogs Bless You Boys and Pinstripe Alley.
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