Detroit, MI (Sports Network) - Eric Hosmer's first-inning triple knocked in the only run of the game as the Kansas City Royals held on for an important 1-0 victory over the Detroit Tigers at Comerica Park.

Four Kansas City pitchers made Hosmer's extra-base hit stand up to give the Royals their ninth win in 13 outings this September, with Ervin Santana (9-9) scattering five hits and a walk over the first 6 2/3 innings and Greg Holland surviving a leadoff walk to Prince Fielder in the ninth to notch his 43rd save of the season.

Fielder was thrown out at the plate to end the game after attempting to score on Omar Infante's double to left.

Hosmer and Mike Moustakas each went 2-for-4 for Kansas City, which entered Saturday's play 3 1/2 games behind Tampa Bay for the AL's second wild card.

The Tigers had a three-game win streak halted after mustering just seven hits. Doug Fister (12-9) was dealt the hard-luck loss, permitting just the one run and striking out six over 7 2/3 innings of work.