abcnews
In a game that saw a six-run lead nearly evaporate, the Detroit Tigers emerged with an 8-7 victory over the Pittsburgh Pirates on Friday night at Comerica Park. Spencer Torkelson came within a single of hitting for the cycle, while rookie Jackson Jobe turned in a solid outing on the mound.
Detroit appeared in control after seven innings, holding an 8-2 advantage. However, the Pirates mounted a furious rally in the eighth, scoring five times to pull within one run. Nick Gonzales and Ryan O'Hearn each delivered RBI singles, and Rafael Flores Jr. launched a three-run homer to cap the outburst.
Torkelson's bid for the cycle was aided by some shaky Pittsburgh defense. His second-inning triple was a sinking liner to right field that eluded a diving Jake Mangum. Later, his double was a routine fly ball to shallow right-center that dropped untouched among three fielders. He added his 26th home run of the season in the seventh inning and was on deck when the Tigers made the final out of the eighth.
Jobe (3-3) allowed two runs on three hits and two walks while striking out eight over 5 1/3 innings. The young right-hander returned in August from Tommy John surgery and concluded the season with a 3.91 ERA and 51 strikeouts in 46 innings.
Kenley Jansen closed out the ninth for his 498th career save, converting his 22nd opportunity in 28 tries this season. Pirates starter Bubba Chandler (9-9) struggled, surrendering six runs on four hits and four walks in just 2 2/3 innings.
Dillon Dingler contributed a two-run single, pushing his career-high RBI total to 91. The game started 30 minutes late due to extended ceremonies honoring Justin Verlander on the eve of his final MLB start. Verlander (0-1, 12.27) is set to make his first start at Comerica Park since August 20, 2017, when he defeated the Los Angeles Dodgers 6-1.
Pittsburgh (81-79) remains one win away from securing its first winning season since 2018.
Key Analysis
The Tigers nearly let a commanding lead slip away, but timely pitching and Torkelson's near-cycle performance proved enough. Jobe's strong return from injury continues to be a bright spot, while Jansen's march toward 500 saves adds historical intrigue. For the Pirates, the late rally showcased resilience, but their playoff hopes hinge on securing at least one more victory to finish above .500 for the first time in six years.
Originally reported by abcnews.