The Tigers posed a threat with two outs in the top of the third, courtesy of Victor Martinez (walk) and J.D. Martinez (infield single). But Justin Upton grounded out to end the frame.
The Tigers lead 2-0 entering the bottom of the third at Fenway Park against the Red Sox.
Boston rookie LHP Brian Johnson escaped the third inning without yielding a run. But yet again, he endured a lengthy battle to get out of the frame and has now thrown 72 pitches.
Johnson started the top of the third by retiring Nick Castellanos (line out) and Miguel Cabrera (strikeout).