DETROIT, Aug. 8 (UPI) -- Miguel Cabrera and Alex Avila hit home runs during a six-run first inning Friday, and Detroit fought off a Minnesota comeback to down the Twins 10-8.
Cabrera hit a three-run homer in the opening inning, and Avila contributed a two-run blast in only the second game of his major league career.
Each team pounded out 15 hits, and the Tigers had to sweat out the victory despite building a 9-4 lead through five innings.
Minnesota scored twice in the ninth to get within two and had the potential tying run at the plate when Fernando Rodney ended the game by striking out Orlando Cabrera.
Armando Galarraga (6-10) lasted five innings to get the victory, giving up three runs on eight hits.
Anthony Swarzak (3-5) stayed in the game while Detroit batted around in the first inning, but got pulled after giving up two singles to start the second.
Detroit increased its lead over the Chicago White Sox to three games in the American League Central. Minnesota fell 5 1/2 games back.
