Indians blow lead in Jiminez’s debut

Associated Press

ARLINGTON, Texas

The Cleveland Indians were set up for what could have been a momentum-building victory over the AL West-leading Texas Rangers.

They led by five runs after two innings, and held a two-run advantage with two outs in the ninth and closer Chris Perez on the mound.

Then, it all went wrong.

Aggressive baserunning by Elvis Andrus in the 11th inning spoiled the night for the Indians, giving the Rangers an 8-7 win Friday night.

“We had them where we wanted them to be, ninth inning, two-run lead and our closer on the mound,” Indians manager Manny Acta said. “Unfortunately, we couldn’t get it done.”

Andrus scored from second on Josh Hamilton’s two-out infield single, denying Ubaldo Jimenez the win in his first start for the Indians.

Andrus sparked the game-ending rally with a two-out bunt single against Rafael Perez (4-2). He advanced to second on a wild pitch before Hamilton hit a soft grounder to shortstop Asdrubal Cabrera.

Hamilton slid headfirst into first, beating Cabrera’s throw. Andrus never stopped after rounding third and beat first baseman Matt LaPorta’s one-hop throw to the plate.

Jimenez pitched five-plus innings in his first start since he was acquired from Colorado on July 31. He was charged with five runs and seven hits, but was in line for the victory until the Rangers rallied with two outs in the ninth.

“I was really excited to go out there,” Jimenez said. “I’m really disappointed. The closer wouldn’t have to even get up if I do my job. We have a five-run lead but I wasn’t able to hold it. I really take it personally.”