Wilson Betemit hit a 423-foot home run in hisfirst game back from left knee soreness, and the Detroit Tigers beat the Cleveland Indians 9-6 last night.

Betemit hadn't played since September 16th, and manager Jim Leyland said Monday he was concerned about the third baseman. But Betemit was in the lineup yesterday, and he gave AL Central champion Detroit a 4-0 lead in the second inning with the toweringhomer to right field.

Detroit's Max Scherzer (15-9) allowed four runs and seven hits in 5 2-3 innings, striking out seven in his final tuneup for the postseason.

Jose Valverde pitched the ninth, earning his 48th save in as many chances.

Jeanmar Gomez (5-3) allowed eight runs and 10 hits in 4 2-3 innings. He had won his previous five starts.

Jim Thome and Lonnie Chisenhall had two hits apiece for the Tribe.

The teams complete the regular season tonight in Detroit. Zach McAllister will pitch for the Indians tonight against Rick Porcello for the Tigers.

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