Detroit Tigers snap 38-game losing streak when scoring less than 3 runs

ST. PETERSBURG, FL - AUGUST 16: Daniel Norris #44 of the Detroit Tigers delivers a pitch during the bottom of the first inning against the Tampa Bay Rays at Tropicana Field on August 16, 2019 in St. Petersburg, Florida. (Photo by Joseph Garnett Jr./Getty Images)
ST. PETERSBURG, FL - AUGUST 16: Daniel Norris #44 of the Detroit Tigers delivers a pitch during the bottom of the first inning against the Tampa Bay Rays at Tropicana Field on August 16, 2019 in St. Petersburg, Florida. (Photo by Joseph Garnett Jr./Getty Images) /
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The Detroit Tigers put on a defensive clinic tonight and stole game one of the series against Tampa Bay with a score of 2-0.

The Detroit Tigers began a three-game series against the Tampa Bay Rays tonight on the right foot, with a 2-0 win. This win snapped a 38-game losing streak while being held under three runs. Detroit’s pitching and defense really came through tonight.

Daniel Norris started the game for Detroit but was pulled after only three innings of work, likely due to a blister on his left hand. Norris had a great start, only allowing one hit, three walks, and striking out three batters. Drew VerHagen came in to replace him and had a spectacular performance, going 5.0 innings in relief and not allowing a single run to score.

On the other side, Charlie Morton had an excellent start for the Rays. Morton went for 7.0 innings and recorded 10 strikeouts without allowing an earned run. Unfortunately for Morton, a run came home off of an error, which led to a double by Niko Goodrum and a wild pitch, earning him the loss on the night.

The Tigers put on a defensive showcase tonight, which was great to see after having struggled defensively as of late. Detroit pulled two double plays on the night and had a number of highlight-reel plays. Goodrum had a great diving stop and throw to gun down Jesus Aguilar, and Jake Rogers caught Austin Meadows attempting to steal second base. The great defense prevented any runs from crossing and played a big part in Detroit’s victory over a potential playoff team.

Next. Check out our series preview against Tampa Bay. dark

The series against Tampa Bay continues for the Tigers tomorrow night at 6:10 p.m. EST. Jordan Zimmermann will make the start for Detroit, coming off of a short stint on the injured list. Zimmermann was finally able to earn his first win on the year and looks to get a second against a talented Rays team.