Verlander wins 17th; Tigers avoid Indians sweep

Justin Verlander did just enough to assume league lead in wins, while the Detroit offense put together an early 3, in the completion of a three-game series between these AL Central pennant hopefuls.

Verlander (17-5) snapped a tie with Yankees left-hander CC Sabathia, picking up the win after allowing three runs on three hits and three walks while fanning 10 over seven innings.

The right-hander posted his fifth straight victory and eclipsed the double- digit mark in strikeouts for the fourth time in 2011.

Jose Valverde turned in a perfect ninth inning to remain a perfect 33-for-33 in save situations, setting a franchise record for consecutive saves in one season. Willie Hernandez held the original mark of 32 in a row during the 1984 campaign.