Joe Saunders picked up his first victory since May 23rd on Sunday afternoon. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-US PRESSWIRE

The D-backs opened the game with a big three-run first inning. With one out, Chris Young and Justin Upton began the rally with back-to-back singles. After a walk to Paul Goldschmidt, Young scored on an infield error by Cliff Pennington. Upton and Goldschmidt were able to score on an two run RBI single by Aaron Hill.

Oakland added a couple runs in the fourth inning, when Brandon Inge brought home Jonny Gomes on an RBI double, followed by an RBI single by Josh Donaldson.

Jason Kubel continued his hot streak at the plate with an RBI single in the fifth inning, giving the D-backs a little breathing room with a 4-2 lead. However, the A’s would respond in the top of the seventh inning with an RBI single by Seth Smith.

The late run wouldn’t be enough for the bay area visitors as JJ Putz came in and closed the door for his 13th save of the season.

Joe Saunders threw six solid innings, giving up seven hits and only one earned run. It was his fourth win of the season and first since May 23rd. Bryan Shaw and David Hernandez each threw an inning of relief, with Putz coming in the ninth for the save. With the win, the team finished the homestand 5-1, with much needed momentum as the team begins a road trip through the AL West this week.

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The 2003 Detroit Tigers–the title alone just evokes images of nameless players and empty seats.  That year the Tigers set the American League record with 119 losses.

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