McGonigle homers as Tigers beat Pirates 8-5 and move into a tie for the last AL wild-card spot

PITTSBURGH (AP) — Kevin McGonigle's two-run homer propelled the Detroit Tigers to an 8-5 victory over the Pittsburgh Pirates on Monday night, securing a three-way tie for the final AL wild-card spot. McGonigle, who has driven in 13 runs this season, added to his tally with the pivotal hit in the second inning. The Tigers built a commanding 8-1 lead early, with Brett Callahan and Hao-Yu Lee contributing two runs each before Pittsburgh managed to score four times in the sixth inning.

Zach McKinstry and Kevin McGonigle each hit RBI singles in the first inning, setting the stage for McGonigle's game-changing two-run shot in the second. Despite a strong pitching performance by Framber Valdez, who allowed only four runs over 5 2/3 innings, the Tigers' offense proved too much for the Pirates. Kenley Jansen added to the relief pitching effort with a strikeout in the final inning, earning his 15th save of the year.

The Tigers' final wild-card spot was secured following the Baltimore Orioles' 7-6 loss to Tampa Bay.