MLB: Detroit 8, Tampa Bay 6

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla., Sept. 5 (UPI) -- Three batters drove in two runs each Saturday, leading the Detroit Tigers to an 8-6 win over the Tampa Bay Rays, their fifth in a row.

Placido Polanco hit a solo homer and an RBI single, Carlos Guillen hit a two-run triple and Alex Avila a two-run homer.

Marcus Thames and Adam Everett had one RBI apiece for the Tigers, who maintained their six-game lead over second-place Minnesota in the American League Central.

The winner was reliever Bobby Seay (5-2) with Brandon Lyon earning his second save.

Evan Longoria led Tampa Bay with two hits -- one a three-run, first-inning homer.

Pat Burrell had two RBI and Carlos Pena one for the Rays, who had eight hits but lost their third straight contest.

The losing pitcher was reliever Grant Balfour (5-4).