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Lee hits clutch double in 9th and Tigers hold on for 2-1 comeback win over Angels

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Lee hits clutch double in 9th and Tigers hold on for 2-1 comeback win over Angels
Sport

Sport

Lee hits clutch double in 9th and Tigers hold on for 2-1 comeback win over Angels

2026-07-18 12:46 Last Updated At:12:51

ANAHEIM, Calif. (AP) — Hao-Yu Lee lined a two-run double with two outs in the ninth inning to lift the Detroit Tigers over the Los Angeles Angels 2-1 on Friday night.

Detroit reliever Keider Montero (6-5) struck out five in 3 1/3 scoreless innings to earn the win, getting Denzer Guzman to ground out with runners on second and third to end the game.

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Detroit Tigers' Riley Greene, left, scores on a double by Hao-Yu Lee as Los Angeles Angels catcher Logan O'Hoppe stands by during the ninth inning of a baseball game Friday, July 17, 2026, in Anaheim, Calif. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)

Detroit Tigers' Riley Greene, left, scores on a double by Hao-Yu Lee as Los Angeles Angels catcher Logan O'Hoppe stands by during the ninth inning of a baseball game Friday, July 17, 2026, in Anaheim, Calif. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)

Detroit Tigers' Riley Greene is congratulated by teammates in the dugout after scoring on a double by Hao-Yu Lee during the ninth inning of a baseball game against the Los Angeles Angels, Friday, July 17, 2026, in Anaheim, Calif. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)

Detroit Tigers' Riley Greene is congratulated by teammates in the dugout after scoring on a double by Hao-Yu Lee during the ninth inning of a baseball game against the Los Angeles Angels, Friday, July 17, 2026, in Anaheim, Calif. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)

Detroit Tigers pitcher Keider Montero celebrates after Los Angeles Angels' Denzer Guzman was thrown out at first to end the game during the ninth inning of a baseball game Friday, July 17, 2026, in Anaheim, Calif. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)

Detroit Tigers pitcher Keider Montero celebrates after Los Angeles Angels' Denzer Guzman was thrown out at first to end the game during the ninth inning of a baseball game Friday, July 17, 2026, in Anaheim, Calif. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)

Detroit Tigers' Riley Greene, left, scores on a double by Hao-Yu Lee as Los Angeles Angels catcher Logan O'Hoppe stands by during the ninth inning of a baseball game Friday, July 17, 2026, in Anaheim, Calif. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)

Detroit Tigers' Riley Greene, left, scores on a double by Hao-Yu Lee as Los Angeles Angels catcher Logan O'Hoppe stands by during the ninth inning of a baseball game Friday, July 17, 2026, in Anaheim, Calif. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)

Detroit Tigers' Hao-Yu Lee, center, hits a two RBI double as Los Angeles Angels catcher Logan O'Hoppe, right, and home plate umpire Will Little watch during the ninth inning of a baseball game Friday, July 17, 2026, in Anaheim, Calif. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)

Detroit Tigers' Hao-Yu Lee, center, hits a two RBI double as Los Angeles Angels catcher Logan O'Hoppe, right, and home plate umpire Will Little watch during the ninth inning of a baseball game Friday, July 17, 2026, in Anaheim, Calif. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)

Tigers third baseman Kevin McGonigle preserved the lead when he leaped to grab Oswald Peraza’s high chopper behind the bag with two on and made a long throw to first for the second out of the ninth.

Angels reliever Kirby Yates (0-5) hit a batter with a pitch to open the top of the ninth, walked another with one out and got Kerry Carpenter to fly to shallow left field for the second out. But the right-hander couldn’t put away Lee, whose clutch hit gave Detroit its 10th win in 13 games.

Angels starter Reid Detmers, a top target of contenders looking to acquire a starter before the Aug. 3 trade deadline, allowed four hits, struck out seven and walked none in six shutout innings, effectively mixing his 95 mph fastball with an 86 mph slider and 72 mph slow curve.

Ryan Zeferjahn retired the side in order in the seventh, and Sam Bachman struck out three of four batters in a scoreless eighth for the Angels, who have lost 11 of 13.

Tigers starter Troy Melton, a 25-year-old right-hander who attended nearby Anaheim Canyon High School, allowed one run and four hits in 5 2/3 innings. He struck out nine and walked four in his first big league appearance at Angel Stadium.

Zach Neto's leadoff single and two walks loaded the bases for the Angels in the first, and Josh Lowe drove in Neto with a grounder to second for a 1-0 lead.

Before the game, the Angels announced they signed first-round draft pick Jared Grindlinger, a two-way standout from nearby Huntington Beach High School who will start his pro career as an outfielder.

Tigers LHP Tarik Skubal (5-5, 3.09 ERA) will oppose Angels RHP Grayson Rodriguez (3-2, 7.55) on Saturday night.

AP MLB: https://apnews.com/hub/mlb

Detroit Tigers' Riley Greene, left, scores on a double by Hao-Yu Lee as Los Angeles Angels catcher Logan O'Hoppe stands by during the ninth inning of a baseball game Friday, July 17, 2026, in Anaheim, Calif. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)

Detroit Tigers' Riley Greene, left, scores on a double by Hao-Yu Lee as Los Angeles Angels catcher Logan O'Hoppe stands by during the ninth inning of a baseball game Friday, July 17, 2026, in Anaheim, Calif. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)

Detroit Tigers' Riley Greene is congratulated by teammates in the dugout after scoring on a double by Hao-Yu Lee during the ninth inning of a baseball game against the Los Angeles Angels, Friday, July 17, 2026, in Anaheim, Calif. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)

Detroit Tigers' Riley Greene is congratulated by teammates in the dugout after scoring on a double by Hao-Yu Lee during the ninth inning of a baseball game against the Los Angeles Angels, Friday, July 17, 2026, in Anaheim, Calif. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)

Detroit Tigers pitcher Keider Montero celebrates after Los Angeles Angels' Denzer Guzman was thrown out at first to end the game during the ninth inning of a baseball game Friday, July 17, 2026, in Anaheim, Calif. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)

Detroit Tigers pitcher Keider Montero celebrates after Los Angeles Angels' Denzer Guzman was thrown out at first to end the game during the ninth inning of a baseball game Friday, July 17, 2026, in Anaheim, Calif. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)

Detroit Tigers' Riley Greene, left, scores on a double by Hao-Yu Lee as Los Angeles Angels catcher Logan O'Hoppe stands by during the ninth inning of a baseball game Friday, July 17, 2026, in Anaheim, Calif. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)

Detroit Tigers' Riley Greene, left, scores on a double by Hao-Yu Lee as Los Angeles Angels catcher Logan O'Hoppe stands by during the ninth inning of a baseball game Friday, July 17, 2026, in Anaheim, Calif. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)

Detroit Tigers' Hao-Yu Lee, center, hits a two RBI double as Los Angeles Angels catcher Logan O'Hoppe, right, and home plate umpire Will Little watch during the ninth inning of a baseball game Friday, July 17, 2026, in Anaheim, Calif. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)

Detroit Tigers' Hao-Yu Lee, center, hits a two RBI double as Los Angeles Angels catcher Logan O'Hoppe, right, and home plate umpire Will Little watch during the ninth inning of a baseball game Friday, July 17, 2026, in Anaheim, Calif. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)

The cricket world united in mourning the death of the great Garry Sobers on Friday.

Considered by many to be the greatest cricketer because he was a brilliant batter, bowler, fielder and captain, Sobers died at his home in Bridgetown, Barbados, at age 89.

He played only two first-class matches before making his test debut for the West Indies in 1954 and stayed there for 20 years. He captained for seven years.

Some notable reactions:

“Sir Garfield Sobers was not only the finest all-rounder the game has ever known, but one of the greatest cricketers in history. He helped shape the identity of West Indies cricket during one of its most celebrated eras and leaves behind an indelible mark on the history of our game. He will be remembered with immense admiration and gratitude, and his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.” — on X

"As three Barbadians, we are reminded that even those who emerge from our shores can go on to represent something much greater. Sir Garry's journey from Barbados to becoming the greatest cricketer the world has ever seen remains one of the most inspiring stories in the history of our game. He showed that while our individual islands shape who we are, the West Indies provides a platform for us to unite, compete and inspire on the world stage. Sir Garry’s brilliance, humility, and commitment set a standard that continues to guide every generation that follows. We extend our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones. We celebrate a life that transcended boundaries and a legacy that will forever live in the story of cricket, the spirit of the Caribbean and the hearts of all who love the game." — in a statement

There are moments in the story of a people when the life of one individual becomes woven into the hopes, dreams, and identity of generations. Today, the Caribbean mourns the passing of such an individual ... His mastery of batting, bowling and fielding was unparalleled, but his true significance reached far beyond the boundary ropes. He emerged from the Caribbean at a time when our region was finding its voice and asserting its place on the world stage. Through his excellence, he gave millions across our islands and in the diaspora, a renewed belief in what was possible. He showed that greatness was not confined by the size of our nations, the geography of our islands or the circumstances of our beginnings. Sir Garfield Sobers became more than a sporting icon. He became a symbol of Caribbean excellence, resilience, and possibility. His achievements brought pride to Barbados, inspiration to the West Indies and admiration from every corner of the cricketing world." — in a statement

“This is probably the saddest day for the game of cricket. The greatest cricketer to walk the earth has left us. No words can ever do justice to Sir Garfield Sobers the cricketer. He was everything we dream of becoming when we pick up the bat or the ball as kids. Memories keep flooding back and that's what I will be holding forever close to my heart.” — on social media

"Anyone who saw him in his pomp will have wonderful memories of the greatest all-rounder, an icon, a once-in-your-lifetime cricketer. And even more important, a lovely man. I just loved the way Garry walked out to bat. He was like a panther with a purposeful, loping and confident walk. He didn’t say anything. He did not need to. There was no ego. His walk let the opposition know he was there for business.” — to the Telegraph

“Cricket has lost one of its greatest. Sir Garfield Sobers didn't just play the game he showed us what was possible in it. Generations have learned from his mastery and always will. My deepest condolences to his family and to the people of the West Indies.” — on X

“Like many others, my heart is heavy at the passing of the great Sir Garfield St Aubrun Sobers. He was always generous with his time and advice to me. He elevated Barbados and the West Indian Islands to a place of great and unprecedented standing in the world through his performance and leadership on the field. Sad he is no longer with us, but very happy that he came. We have memories of him than stand this game in good stead.” — on X

“Cricket has lost one of its greatest ever icons. Deeply saddened by the passing of Sir Garfield Sobers, one of the greatest cricketers to have ever graced the game. His unmatched brilliance as an all-rounder, remarkable sportsmanship, and enduring legacy will continue to inspire generations of cricketers around the world.” — on X

“It is with profound sadness that I join Barbados, the Caribbean and the cricketing world in mourning the passing of The Right Excellent Sir Garfield Sobers, our Sir Garry. From Bay Land to Kensington and onto the world stage, he carried Barbados and the West Indies with distinction. He made us all stand a little taller as Barbadians, and I will always be grateful for what he gave to our country and our people. Barbados stands. The West Indies stand. The world stands. Well played, Sir Garry. Well played.” — on X

“His extraordinary achievements, lasting influence on Caribbean cricket and immeasurable contribution to the global game have left an enduring legacy that will continue to inspire generations.” — on X

“We join the cricket world in mourning the death of Sir Garfield Sobers, one of the game’s greatest players and a significant contributor to Australian cricket, including in his time as a player for South Australia. Our deepest condolences to his family, friends and teammates at this sad time.”

(Sobers spent three summers representing South Australia state in the Sheffield Shield domestic competition between 1961-62 and 1963-64. His third season, in which he played all eight matches, saw him score 973 runs and claim 47 wickets in South Australia’s title-winning season).

AP cricket: https://apnews.com/hub/cricket

FILE - West Indies' cricket legend Sir Garfield Sobers speaks during the opening ceremony of the ICC Cricket World Cup at Trelawny Stadium, Jamaica, March 11, 2007. (AP Photo/Andres Leighton, File)

FILE - West Indies' cricket legend Sir Garfield Sobers speaks during the opening ceremony of the ICC Cricket World Cup at Trelawny Stadium, Jamaica, March 11, 2007. (AP Photo/Andres Leighton, File)

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