Franmil Reyes hit a three-run homer with two outs in the ninth inning as the Indians stopped a nine-game losing streak with a 7-4 walk off win over the Kansas City Royals on Thursday night.
After Royals manager Mike Matheny elected to have reliever Greg Holland (2-4) walk the dangerous José Ramírez to put runners at first and second, Reyes walked to the plate and made Kansas City pay.
Before Reyes’ blow, Roberto Pérez came through in the clutch with a three-run homer in the eighth to give the Indians a 4-3 lead.
Carlos Santana homered twice for the Royals, with his second shot tying it 4-4 in the ninth before Reyes ended it in the bottom of the ninth.
The Royals have lost 13 of 16.
Danny Duffy was pleased with his outing (one run in five innings) and says he feels stronger after missing time with a forearm strain. He was seeking his first win since May 1st but ended up with a no decision.
RHP Triston McKenzie will be recalled from Triple-A Columbus to start Friday’s game against Royals RHP Brad Keller at 6:10.