Cruz'in

Texas Rangers' Nelson Cruz reacts after hitting a solo home run during the seventh inning of Game 2 of baseball's American League championship series against the Detroit Tigers Monday, Oct. 10, 2011, in Arlington, Texas. ((AP Photo/Charlie Riedel))

By STEPHEN HAWKINS
AP Sports Writer AP

12:13 a.m. EDT, October 11, 2011
ARLINGTON, Texas (AP) — Nelson Cruz hit the first game-ending grand slam in postseason history, lifting the Texas Rangers over the Detroit Tigers 7-3 in 11 innings Monday for a 2-0 lead in the AL championship series.

Cruz also hit a tying home run in the seventh inning. His second homer of the game was a high drive to left off Ryan Perry with nobody out in the 11th.

Both teams blew bases-loaded chances in the ninth. Texas relievers combined for 8 1-3 scoreless innings.

Game 3 is Tuesday night in Detroit. Colby Lewis starts for the defending AL champion Rangers against Doug Fister.