Jurickson Profar tripled home the go-ahead run in a two-run seventh inning and the Rangers held on to beat the Tigers 7-6 in the opener of a three-game set in Texas.
Shin Soo Choo tied the game at six with an RBI single for Texas, which overcame a 5-1 deficit.
Starter Michael Fulmer did not figure in the decision, giving up five runs on four hits while walking three and striking out seven in five and two third innings.
Daniel Stumpf was charged with the loss after surrendering one run on two hits in one third of an inning in relief.
Leonys Martin hit a two-run homer and Victor Martinez a two-run single for Detroit, which has dropped four-of-five.
Tonight, Detroit sends Mike Fiers to the mound, while Texas counters with Mike Minor.