Anibal Sanchez was Detroit’s starting pitcher, lasting seven innings while allowing only a first inning run after Bryce Harper led off the game with a triple.

Andy Dirks doubled in the first run for the Tigers with two on. We had to hold one runner at third after a fan scooped up the ball like a grounder and interfered with the play. Wise up to the situation, snarffan.

Avila split a 1-1 score wide open with his first career grand slam.

Newly acquired arm Jose Veras impressed in his debut, putting the Nats down 1-2-3 in the 8th.

Joaquin Benoit finished them off for the 5-1 final.