Tigers edge Pirates

Verlander sharp, and Detaroit holds on for 6-5 victory

Detroit Tigers starting pitcher Justin Verlander throws during the second inning of a game against the Pittsburgh Pirates.

DETROIT — Justin Verlander struck out 13 in seven innings, and Jhonny Peralta had four hits to lead the Detroit Tigers over the Pittsburgh Pirates 6-5 today.

It was Peralta’s first four-hit game since June 4, 2010, when he was playing for Cleveland. Detroit has won six of seven.

Verlander (6-4) hadn’t pitched more than five innings in any of his previous three starts, struggling at times with his location. But he was sharp for the most part against Pittsburgh, allowing three runs and seven hits with two walks.

Joaquin Benoit allowed two runs — one earned — in the eighth. Jose Valverde finished for his sixth save in seven chances.

Francisco Liriano (3-1) allowed four runs and eight hits in five innings.