Tigers rally in 8th to beat Royals 2-1 for 4th straight win

Kenley Jansen records 479th career save, moving into sole possession of 3rd place on all-time list

Apr. 15, 2026 at 2:18am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A fractured, cubist painting depicting the dynamic action and energy of a baseball game, with sharp geometric shapes and planes in shades of navy, green, and orange conveying the intensity of the moment.Kenley Jansen's historic save helps the Tigers rally past the Royals in a tightly contested AL Central matchup.Today in Detroit

The Detroit Tigers rallied from an eighth-inning deficit to beat the Kansas City Royals 2-1 on Tuesday night, securing their fourth consecutive victory. Closer Kenley Jansen recorded his 479th career save, moving past Lee Smith for sole possession of third place on the all-time saves list.

Why it matters

The Tigers' comeback win extends their winning streak to four games, keeping them competitive in the AL Central division race. Jansen's historic save also cements his status as one of the greatest closers in MLB history.

The details

Trailing 1-0 in the eighth inning, the Tigers tied the game on a passed ball that allowed Zach McKinstry to score. They then took the lead on an RBI double from rookie Dillon Dingler. Jansen closed out the game in the ninth, allowing a leadoff single but retiring the next three batters to record his third save of the season.

  • The game was played on Tuesday, April 15, 2026.
  • Jansen's 479th career save moved him past Lee Smith for sole possession of third place on the all-time saves list.

The players

Kenley Jansen

A veteran relief pitcher for the Detroit Tigers and one of the greatest closers in MLB history.

Lee Smith

A former MLB relief pitcher who held the record for career saves before being surpassed by Jansen.

Zach McKinstry

A Tigers outfielder who scored the tying run in the eighth inning.

Dillon Dingler

A Tigers rookie who hit the go-ahead RBI double in the eighth inning.

Lane Thomas

A Royals outfielder who reached base in the ninth inning against Jansen.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Kenley Jansen continues to cement his legacy as one of the all-time great closers in baseball history.”

— Jim Leyland, Former Tigers manager

What’s next

The Tigers and Royals will face off again on Wednesday night, with heavy rain in the forecast. Detroit's Jack Flaherty and Kansas City's Seth Lugo are the scheduled starting pitchers.

The takeaway

The Tigers' comeback victory showcases their resilience and ability to win close games, which will be crucial as they look to make a push for the playoffs in a competitive AL Central division.