The Tigers offense finally came alive in a 6-3 victory over the Cardinals in the finale of a three game series. For the first time since June 9th the Tigers scored more than three runs in a game.

Detroit was able to score four runs in the first inning by effectively using a small-ball type offense. Runs were scored on a throwing error, a ground out, a single by Brandon Inge, and finally a double by Gerald Laird.

Scoring was spread out the Tigers lineup with five different players recording an RBI including Laird, Inge, Miguel Cabrera, Marcus Thames, and Placido Polanco. Thames and Polanco hit solo home runs in the top of the eighth inning to push the score to 6-3.

Rookie Rick Porcello (8-4) went 5.2 innings giving up three runs, one earned, on eight hits to pick up the victory. This was Porcello’s sixth win in his past eight starts, and he leads the Tigers, and all rookie pitchers, in wins this season.

Joel Pineiro went seven strong innings giving up four runs, one earned, on only five hits. A first inning error by third baseman Joe Thurston cost the Cardinals in the end. Reliever Jason Motte gave up the two solo home runs in the eighth that put the game out of reach for the Cardinals.

Closer Fernando Rodney picked up his 13th save on the season in as many chances. Rodney made things interesting in the ninth with three walks to load the bases with only one out, but Rick Ankiel grounded into a game ending double play.

St. Louis now heads out to Kansas City as a part of their seven game road trip. Detroit heads home for a weekend series with the Milwaukee Brewers in their six game home stand that also brings the Chicago Cubs to Comerica Park.