Raburn homers as Tribe rolls
Associated Press
goodyear, ariz.
Ryan Raburn played the field and homered for the first time since running into an outfield wall as the Cleveland Indians beat the Cincinnati Reds 8-3.
Raburn also had a sacrifice fly while driving in three runs. He made a nice play at first base, too, on a low liner by Brayan Pena.
Raburn had been limited to designated hitter duty since crashing into the right-field wall on March 7.
Lonnie Chisenhall found out earlier in the morning that he had earned a spot on the Indians’ opening-day roster. He celebrated with his second homer this spring, connecting off starter Alfredo Simon.
For the Reds, Jay Bruce had two hits, including an RBI double off Indians starter Carlos Carrasco.
Carrasco allowed three runs and nine hits in six innings. He struck out five and walked none.
“The last inning they scored two runs but I finished the inning strong,” Carrasco said. “There were runners on second and third. I just wanted to throw strikes. Just let it go.”
Carrasco struck out the last batter he faced.
Carrasco is trying to earn the open fifth spot in the rotation. His competitor, Josh Tomlin, is scheduled to start today against the Rangers.
Indians center fielder Michael Bourn will miss at least four regular-season games with a tight left hamstring. He is running bases in camp but will start the season on the disabled list. Bourn had surgery on the hamstring in October.
The Indians’ original lineup featured Nick Swisher as the designated hitter. The Indians, who share the Goodyear facility with Cincinnati, realized the Reds were the home team, meaning the game would be played under National League rules with the pitcher hitting. Swisher finished his work and went home for the day. The Reds gave the Indians permission to use the DH.
Minor leaguer Nick Hamilton was told 15 minutes before the game that he would be the DH. Hamilton is the son of Tom Hamilton, who has broadcast Indians games for 25 years.
Outfielder Nyjer Morgan was told by Antonetti and manager Terry Francona that he will be on the Indians’ opening-day roster.
Right-hander Aaron Harang was given his unconditional release.