The Tigers lost, 8-5, to the Pittsburgh Pirates. They have posted a 14-17 record since June 14 — and a 1-8 record since July 9.

"We're a really good team," Detroit Tigers first baseman Spencer Torkelson said after the eighth loss in nine games. "We just got to play like it."

The Tigers (60-42) have lost eight of their last nine games and now face the possibility of being swept by the last-place Pirates.

This was the first time the Pirates had at least eight doubles in one game since Aug. 24, 2002 against the Brewers.

The Pirates, who had lost 11 of their previous 12 games, have taken the first two games of the series from the AL Central leaders.

The Detroit Tigers are looking for something to break them out of their recent struggles. They will turn to prospect Troy Melton, who will make his major league debut on Wednesday afternoon against the host Pittsburgh Pirates in the finale of a three-game series.

Detroit Tigers center fielder Parker Meadows hit a double off Pirates ace Paul Skenes on Monday, July 21 — his first extra-base hit since June 22.