By Fitzgerald Cecilio

Justin Verlander allowed three hits and one run over seven innings as the Detroit Tigers bested the Oakland Athletics, 3-1, to take the opening game of their American League Division series Saturday at Comerica Park.

Verlander once again proved he's still one of the best hurlers in baseball, striking out 11 batters to give the Tigers a morale-boosting win against the A's.

Centerfielder Coco Crisp opened things up with a solo homer in the first inning but it was the only bright spot for the A's.

Miguel Cabrera, the Triple Crown winner and AL MVP front runner, drove in a run in the first inning while second baseman Omar Infante broke the 1-1 deadlock after scoring on an error by A's hurler Jarrod Parker.

Catcher Alex Avila gave the Tigers a 3-1 advantage with a solo homer in the fifth inning. Closer Jose Valverde did a masterful job preserving the Tigers' lead in the final inning.

Parker, who went 13-8 with 3.47 ERA and 140 strikeouts in the season, surrendered seven hits and three runs into seven innings.

The Tigers will try to build a commanding 2-0 advantage against the A's Sunday at Comerica Park.

 

 

Justin Verlander Fans 11 as Tigers Take ALDS Opener Over A's