Written by Paul Hoynes at Cleveland.com
Carlos Santana says he’s learned how to take the emotion out of his swing.
The presence of Mike Napoli has helped ease the power burden on Santana. Ditto for his venture into the leadoff spot.
All of which has been a good thing for the Indians. But when it comes down to it, power is power, whether it comes through raw anger or inner peace. Santana showed that once again Thursday night as his three-run homer led the Indians to a sweep of Kansas City with a 5-2 win at Progressive Field.
The win reduced the Indians’ magic number to clinch the AL Central to four.
Santana delivered in the sixth inning off Dillon Gee with the score tied, 2-2. It was his 34th homer of the season, tying him with Napoli for the team lead. It was the 151st homer of his career, tying him with Joe Carter for 12th place on the Tribe’s all-time list.
Gee (7-9) put himself in harm’s way by hitting Jason Kipnis with a pitch and walking Francisco Lindor to start the sixth.
“We had a frustrating night swinging the bat, Carlos’ homer was (big),” said manager Terry Francona. “We didn’t do a whole lot, but it was enough.”
The win went to Dan Otero (5-1), who relieved rookie Mike Clevinger to start the sixth. It was the eighth time this season Otero has pitched two or more innings. He has not allowed a run in those outings.
Allen, in his 63rd appearance, retired the side in order for his 29th save.
The Indians improved to 11-5 against the Royals this year. They have beaten them eight straight times at Progressive Field. For the season, they are 9-1 at The Prog vs. Kansas City.
It was a good series for Santana. He drove in four runs Thursday, went 4-for-5 on Wednesday and homered Tuesday. Santana has six homers against the Royals this year and 23 in his career.
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