Tigers Rally to Defeat Rays 4-2: Kahnle Earns First Win of Season

By Oliver Wiener July 10, 2025 09:28

The Detroit Tigers rallied to a 4-2 victory over the Tampa Bay Rays on July 8, 2025, at Comerica Park, with Adam Kahnle earning his first win of the season in a crucial relief outing. The win marked the Tigers’ fifth consecutive victory and underscored their resilience against a tough Rays team fighting to stay in the playoff hunt.

The game started with the Rays taking an early lead, but the Tigers’ offense steadily chipped away, highlighted by a key home run from Colt Keith and timely hitting throughout the lineup. Keith’s power was on full display, as he went 2-for-4 with a solo home run and three RBIs, including a go-ahead homer in the seventh inning that gave Detroit a 4-2 lead. “Colt’s been swinging the bat well all season, and tonight he came through when we needed him most,” said Tigers manager A.J. Hinch. “That homer really energized the team and the crowd.”

Detroit’s offense also benefited from solid contributions by Zach McKinstry, who added a solo home run in the seventh inning, extending the Tigers’ lead and putting the game out of reach. McKinstry’s homer was his 10th of the season, and he finished the night 1-for-3 with a walk.

On the mound, starter Keider Montero delivered a strong six-inning performance, allowing just two runs on seven hits while striking out four. Montero’s steady pitching kept the Rays’ offense in check and set the stage for the bullpen to close out the game. “Keider gave us exactly what we needed,” Hinch said. “He kept the ball down, mixed his pitches well, and gave us a chance to win.”

Reliever Adam Kahnle entered in the seventh inning and pitched 2⅓ scoreless innings, allowing just one hit and striking out three. The win was Kahnle’s first of the season, a milestone that came after a few tough outings earlier in the year. “It feels great to get that first win,” Kahnle said. “The guys gave me a lead, and I just tried to do my job and keep us ahead.”

The Rays, who fell to 49-43, struggled to capitalize on scoring opportunities. Their two runs came early, including a solo home run by outfielder Eddie White in the fifth inning. However, Tampa Bay’s bullpen faltered in the late innings, unable to contain the Tigers’ rally. Rays manager Kevin Cash acknowledged the team’s shortcomings: “We didn’t get the timely hits we needed, and our bullpen couldn’t hold the lead. Detroit played a solid game and deserved the win.”

Detroit’s victory improved their record to 59-34, maintaining their strong hold atop the American League Central. The Tigers have been one of the most consistent teams this season, with a balanced attack and dependable pitching staff. Their five-game winning streak is the longest active run in the league, and the team looks poised to make a deep postseason run.

Statistically, the Tigers outhit the Rays 9-7 and took advantage of key moments, turning clutch hits into runs. The team’s ability to rally from behind and execute in high-leverage situations has been a hallmark of their success this season.

Looking ahead, the Tigers will aim to keep their momentum going as they prepare for a home series against the Seattle Mariners. With players like Keith and McKinstry heating up and pitchers like Montero and Kahnle finding their groove, Detroit is building a strong foundation for the second half of the season.

The Tigers’ 4-2 comeback win over the Rays was a showcase of timely hitting, solid pitching, and bullpen reliability. Adam Kahnle’s first win of the season capped a team effort that demonstrated Detroit’s resilience and championship potential as they continue to lead the AL Central.