The Detroit Tigers started their three-game set in Arlington with a convincing win on Monday. They beat the Rangers 8-2.
Tigers pitcher Rick Porcello (5-5) reversed a couple of trends with a strong effort. His career ERA against the Rangers is worse than any other AL team and he headed into this game 0-3 against AL West teams with a 12.08 ERA. In this game, he gave up one run in six innings, striking out seven.
Justin Grimm (1-1) took the loss for Texas, giving up six runs before being yanked in the second inning. It was Grimm's second major league start.
Miguel Cabrera went 3-for-4 including two doubles for three RBIs. The Tigers held an 8-0 lead after six, before Josh Hamilton's two run home run in the seventh.
Game 2 goes Tuesday at 8:05 p.m. ET at Rangers Ballpark in Arlington. Texas will send Yu Darvish to the mound against the Tigers' Drew Smyly.
For more on the Detroit Tigers and Texas Rangers, head over to Bless You Boys and Lone Star Ball, the teams respective SB Nation blogs. More news and analysis on the world of baseball can be found over at Baseball Nation.