Tigers lose, drop into first-place tie

DETROITMINNEAPOLIS — The Detroit Tigers dropped into a first-place tie with Minnesota, losing to Freddy Garcia and the Chicago White Sox, 5-1, Saturday.

Manager Jim Leyland made two pitching changes in the second inning, trying to find a way to end his team’s slump. Instead, Detroit lost for the fifth time in seven games.

Detroit and Minnesota are tied with 85-76 records. The Tigers will start ace Justin Verlander today against the White Sox.

If the Tigers and Twins are still tied after today, there will be a one-game playoff Tuesday in Minnesota.

Cuddyer lifts Twins

-- Michael Cuddyer hit a solo home run -- his 31st -- in the eighth inning, lifting Minnesota over Kansas City, 5-4.

Joe Mauer delivered a two-out single against Zack Greinke that broke a scoreless tie in the sixth inning. The Twins took a 4-0 lead before the Royals rallied to tie it.

Joe Nathan was helped by a diving catch from Denard Span in right field and earned his 47th save.