Oakland, Calif ? Jim Leyland’s players were singing and smiling again around the clubhouse tables, exhibiting the kind of exuberance that comes with knowing you are accomplishing something special.

Success has been hard to come by for the Tigers organization in recent years, so why not enjoy? Even if it is just early July.

All-Star Kenny Rogers won his seventh straight decision against his former club and Craig Monroe hit a two-run homer, leading Detroit over the Oakland Athletics 10-4 Wednesday to avoid a three-game sweep.

“We definitely have some pieces to the puzzle that allow us to go out and be a playoff-contending team,” Monroe said.

Brandon Inge added a solo homer for the Tigers, who have the best record in baseball but had lost three of four following a seven-game winning streak. They have been swept only once this season, April 10-13 by the World Series champion Chicago White Sox.

Yankees 11, Indians 3

Cleveland – Rookie Melky Cabrera hit his first career grand slam in New York’s eight-run fourth inning. In addition to matching their highest-

scoring inning this season off Paul Byrd (6-6), the Yankees stole six bases.

Angels 4, Mariners 0

Seattle – Bartolo Colon threw a four-hitter for his eighth career shutout and first win since September as Los Angeles completed its first three-game sweep of the season.

Rangers 9, Blue Jays 3

Arlington, Texas – Ian Kinsler had three hits, including one of Texas’ four home runs.

White Sox 4, Orioles 2

Chicago – Jon Garland won his fourth straight decision, and Chicago used a four-run first inning to beat Baltimore.

Devil Rays 5, Red Sox 2

St. Petersburg, Fla. – Carl Crawford singled twice, drove in two runs and stole three bases – including home in the fourth inning.