V-Mart provides Tigers’ latest dramatic finish

DETROIT — Victor Martinez hadn’t hit a home run since Aug. 23. Brad Brach hadn’t given up a lead or put the Orioles behind since July 24, and hadn’t given up a lead-changing home run since June 10.

And yet, the way the last couple weeks have gone for the Tigers, it all fit — the go-ahead homer, the 4-3 Tigers win, and the tie between the two clubs for the American League’s second Wild Card.

This is the confidence that late-inning dramatics foster. Even as Detroit’s own bullpen reels from big hits in recent days, the Tigers are comforted by the knowledge that they can do the same and more to others.

“I just think it promotes the belief that you can get to anybody,” manager Brad Ausmus said. “Back ends of the bullpens are some of the best pitchers in the game, and you don’t get too many looks at them, like you do starters. If you get to them, which we’ve done many times, you never lose faith.”

Tigers relievers have taken the decision in eight of Detroit’s last 10 games, but they’ve been on the winning end in seven. Detroit has handed losses to White Sox closer David Robertson, Royals closer Wade Davis, former Tigers closer …

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