Detroit Tigers starting pitcher Justin Verlander (35) throws against the Kansas City Royals during the first inning of a baseball game Monday, April 16, 2012 in Kansas City, Mo.
OAKLAND, Calif. (AP) -- Justin Verlander struck out eight to win his fourth straight decision and the Detroit Tigers beat the ailing Oakland Athletics 3-1 on Sunday to salvage a series split.
Miguel Cabrera hit a pair of RBI singles and Austin Jackson drew a bases-loaded walk in the sixth to put Detroit ahead, helping Verlander (4-1) win his 13th straight road decision dating to July 10.
Verlander easily worked through Oakland's order for the first time, tossing three perfect innings on 42 pitches.
Josh Reddick hit a sharp single to center with two outs in the fourth for the first baserunner against Verlander, who then threw wildly trying for a pickoff and wound up with a two-base error and Reddick on third. But Jonny Gomes struck out swinging as Verlander escaped unscathed.
