Indians' Kluber fans 30 over 2-game span, 2nd-best mark in franchise history
Cleveland Indians right-hander Corey Kluber appears locked in after a rocky start to the season.
After striking out a career-high 18 over eight innings against the St. Louis Cardinals on Wednesday, the reigning American League Cy Young winner struck out 12 Chicago White Sox in nine innings Monday for his second act.
The performance landed Kluber in the franchise record books, tying him for second all-time with 30 strikeouts over a two-game span.
| Pitcher | Year | K |
|---|---|---|
| Luis Tiant | 1968 | 32 |
| Corey Kluber | 2015 | 30 |
| Sam McDowell | 1968 | 30 |
| Sam McDowell | 1968 | 29 |
Kluber was perfect through three innings, striking out seven, before Melky Cabrera singled in the fourth. He completed the ninth inning after 108 pitches before handing the ball over to the bullpen in the 10th tied 1-1.
(Courtesy: MLB.com)
White Sox second baseman Carlos Sanchez doubled in the 10th inning off Indians reliever Zach McAllister for the 2-1 walk-off win. The loss dropped Cleveland to 1-8 in games Kluber starts this season.
The 29-year-old, who began the year 0-5, has 30 strikeouts and one walk over his past two starts, but recorded a no-decision for a third time.
White Sox starter Chris Sale allowed one run off four hits and two walks, while striking out seven over eight innings.
"I dont think it's fun to face either guy," White Sox manager Robin Ventura said. "It was everything as advertised."