Justin Verlander gives up an unearned run in 7 2/3 innings, and the Detroit pen holds off the Royals as the Tigers move into first place with a 2-1 win. Verlander walked none and struck out nine as he lowered his ERA to 2.15. That gives him seven straight games allowing one run or less, and ten on the season. His control remains impressive, with 147 strikeouts and 31 walks in 151 innings, a 4.7 K/BB. Unfortunately, Justin, James Shields and CC Sabathia won’t be pitching in the All-Star game due to starts today. That might be a reason the game is losing some of its luster.

Detroit finishes the first half of the season with a 1/2 game lead in the AL Central.