Detroit broke open a tight game with three runs in the fourth inning, riding Dillon Dingler's offensive explosion to a 7-2 victory over Tampa Bay at Tropicana Field.
Dingler finished 2-for-4 with four RBIs, highlighted by a three-run homer to left field in the fourth that turned a 3-2 lead into a commanding 6-2 advantage. Troy Melton earned the win with eight innings of work, allowing four hits and two runs while striking out five. His ERA stands at 1.74.
The game remained close through three innings, with both teams trading early blows. Jake Rogers homered in the second inning, and Cedric Mullins answered immediately with a solo shot of his own. Dingler's three-run blast in the fourth proved decisive, scoring Vierling and Torres ahead of him.
Nick Martinez absorbed the loss for Tampa Bay, surrendering nine hits and six runs over four innings. His ERA is 2.29. Mason Englert provided five solid innings in relief, allowing just one run on four hits.
Detroit extended its winning streak to two games and improved to 24-38. Tampa Bay's losing streak reached two games as the Rays fell to 36-22 but maintained first place in their division.