DETROIT (AP) - Prince Fielder was thrown out at home plate to end the game, preserving Ervin Santana's impressive outing and leading the Kansas City Royals to a 1-0 victory Saturday over the Detroit Tigers.
The play at the plate helped the Royals gain ground on the two teams ahead them in the race for the second AL wild card, the Yankees and Orioles, who both lost earlier. Kansas City moved to three games back of Tampa Bay. The Rays were playing at Minnesota.
Santana (9-9) won for the first time since Aug. 4, outpitching Doug Fister (12-9). He allowed five hits in 6 2-3 innings, walking one and striking out five.
Will Smith, Luke Hochevar and Greg Holland completed the seven-hitter.