Montero and Lee Power Tigers to 5-1 Victory Over Cubs

How the Game Unfolded

The Cubs struck first when Seiya Suzuki launched his 17th homer of the season off Montero in the bottom of the first inning. However, the Tigers responded quickly as Spencer Torkelson tied the game with a solo shot in the second.

The turning point came in the fourth inning. With runners on base, Lee took advantage of a 3-0 count against Cubs starter Colin Rea (7-7), who had to throw a strike. Lee drove a center-cut fastball deep into the Wrigley Field bleachers, fighting against a cool wind blowing in. The three-run homer gave Detroit a 4-1 lead they would never relinquish.

Zach McKinstry added an insurance run with an RBI double in the ninth inning.

Pitching Duel Breakdown

Montero's performance was especially significant given his recent role shift. After five relief appearances over the last month, he reminded fans why he was a reliable starter earlier in the season. His previous start before Wednesday was a seven-inning, scoreless outing against Houston. The right-hander has now allowed just one run across his last two starts combined.

Cubs starter Colin Rea allowed four runs on six hits over five innings, striking out five but taking the loss.

Lee's Emergence as a Reliable Bat

Lee, who was sent down to Triple-A Toledo on June 2 after batting .205 through 32 games, has shown remarkable improvement since his recall on June 13. Now hitting .256 with five homers through 60 big-league games, the rookie has earned the trust of manager AJ Hinch. With second baseman Gleyber Torres returning from injury, Lee's versatility gives the Tigers valuable depth in the infield.

What's Next

The Tigers continue their road trip with a series opener against the Kansas City Royals on Thursday, sending RHP Troy Melton (5-1, 1.80 ERA) to the mound against Randy Dobnak (0-0, 1.93 ERA). Meanwhile, the Cubs head to Pittsburgh to face the Pirates, with LHP Matthew Boyd (6-1, 4.15 ERA) taking on RHP Jared Jones (2-1, 4.05 ERA).

What was Keider Montero's final stat line?

Montero pitched 5⅓ innings, allowing one run on three hits while striking out a season-high eight batters and walking none. He improved to 7-5 on the season.

How many homers has Hao-Yu Lee hit this season?

Lee hit his fifth home run of the 2026 season, a three-run shot that proved to be the game-winner.

What is Spencer Torkelson's home run total now?

Torkelson hit his 19th home run of the season, a solo shot that tied the game in the second inning.

Where do the Tigers stand in the AL Central?

The Tigers are 48-54, sitting in fourth place in the AL Central, 5 games behind the division-leading Chicago White Sox.

Can the Tigers keep this momentum going against the Royals? Do you think Hao-Yu Lee has earned a permanent spot in the lineup even with Gleyber Torres healthy? Share your thoughts below!

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