MLB wrap: Indians inch ahead in AL Central race with win over Red Sox

Alexis Mansanarez

MLB wrap: Indians inch ahead in AL Central race with win over Red Sox image

Carlos Santana hit a walk-off home run in the bottom of the ninth inning to push the Indians past the Red Sox on Monday.

The 6-5 win also gave Cleveland a slight 1/2-game edge over the Twins in the race for the top spot in the American League Central.

The Indians are heating up at the right time and are in sole possession of first place in the AL Central for the first time since April 20.

Franmil Reyes and José Ramírez also chipped in early homers to build a 5-1 lead over the Red Sox.

Boston, which has now lost three consecutive game, scored four runs over the last six innings — highlighted by home runs from J. D. Martinez and Jackie Bradley Jr. 

Xander Bogaerts hit an RBI double in the top of the ninth to tie the score before Santana stepped up to the plate and ended the game with his 26th homer of the season.

Studs of the Night

Reds rookie Aristides Aquino became the first player in MLB history to hit eight home runs in 12 career games. 

Gleyber Torres hit three homers as the Yankees swept the Orioles in their doubleheader.

Duds of the Night

Ariel Jurado gave up eight runs on 11 hits in 3 2/3 innings of work during the Rangers' 19-4 loss to the Blue Jays.

Orioles lefty Ty Blach allowed six runs on seven hits in the first four innings of Game 2 against the Yankees.

Highlights

Brandon Drury grounded out in his first at-bat in the fourth inning. When he reached the plate again, he hit a grand slam.

Crushed is the only word for Gio Urshela's home run.

What's Next?

Twins (71-47) at Brewers (62-57), 8:10 p.m. ET — The Twins had Monday off and will try to close the gap against the Indians when they face the Brewers on Tuesday. Minnesota will start Martin Perez (8-5, 4.80 ERA) while Milwaukee will counter with Chase Anderson (5-2, 3.70).

 

Alexis Mansanarez