Former Tigers Gibson and Trammell Lead D-backs to Victory

Former Detroit Tiger and now manager for the Arizona Diamondbacks Kirk Gibson returned to Comerica Park to defeat the Tigers 7-6 in the opener of a 3 game set.   Gibson along with former Tiger great and manager Alan Trammell returned to their old stomping grounds.  The Diamondbacks who lead the National League west by a 1/2 game are finding new direction under 1st full season manager Kirk Gibson.  The popular player was hounded for autographs along with Trammell from the Tiger fans out in full force.   37 thousand fans attended the opener with another 84 thousand expected for the final two games.   On Sunday the Tigers will retire the great Sparky Anderson's number in a ceremony with numerous former Tigers in attendence.

The Tigers jumped out to a 4-0 lead and then a 6-3 lead to only see the Diamondbacks climb back to tie the game at 6-6 in the 5th inning.  Starter Phil Cooke struggled in the 5th inning to see his record still stalled at 1-7.  The turning point in the game was the 454 foot home run in the top of the 8th inning by Arizona DH Willie Mo Pena down the left field line.  This game the D-backs a 7-6 lead that they held onto.   Michigan native J.J. Putz held onto lead for the Arizona victory. 

Brandon Inge returned from Toledo and played a strong game at third base.  Ryan Perry also coming back from the DL saw action and looked good.  The Tigers are now 2 games behind the Central Division leading Cleveland Indians.