Corey Kluber turned in his best start of the spring in the Cleveland Indians 8-3 victory over the Chicago Cubs in Arizona.
Corey Kluber has not been at his best in Arizona, however things may have turned the corner for the Indians ace in Friday’s victory over the Cubs. After allowing two runs in the first inning, Kluber did not allow another run for the remainder of his time on the mound. Kluber pitched 5.1 innings, allowed two runs on four hits and struck out seven batters. Even after this outing Kluber’s ERA sits a uninspiring 7.11. The good thing is that Spring Training statistics do not matter. As long as Kluber can build upon this start when the regular season starts everything will be fine.
In addition to Kluber’s strong start, Hanley Ramirez finally showed signs of life. Driving in three runs Ramirez went 3-4 with two home runs and a double. This performance may have just saved Ramirez and he could find his way onto the Indians Opening Day roster.
Carlos Santana also got in on the home run parade, homering in the sixth inning along with Ramirez. Santana also drove in a run on a groundout in the second inning and finished 2-4 on the day.
Max Moroff drove in a run on a double in the second inning. This is an important player to watch as he may hold down the fort at second until Jason Kipnis returns from injury.
The only other Indians pitcher to allow a run was closer Brad Hand. Hand surrendered a solo home run to Johnny Field in the sixth inning. The rest of the Indians bullpen shut down the Cubs. Allowing one hit in three innings and striking out two.
The Indians next game is Saturday at 4:05 P.M as they take on the Cincinnati Reds.
