Indians Beat Twins, Claim Top Spot

Led by Carlos Santana and another dominant start by Scott Kazmir, The Cleveland Indians defeated the Minnesota Twins 5-1 on Saturday afternoon. Combined with the second straight loss by the Tampa Bay Rays to the Toronto Blue Jays, the Tribe now finds themselves alone atop the AL Wild Card standings. Even more important, they now have the luxury of win and you’re in status. Worst case scenario if the Indians lose today is one of numerous play in scenarios involving themselves and the two teams chasing them.

Sep 28, 2013; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Cleveland Indians catcher Carlos Santana (41) is congratulated by Cleveland Indians shortstop

(13) after his home run in the fourth inning against the Minnesota Twins at Target Field. Mandatory Credit: Brad Rempel-USA TODAY Sports

Scott Kazmir threw six innings allowing one run and striking out 11 Twins. It was just the type of performance the Indians needed in order win their ninth straight game. He also continued the trend of impressive starts by Tribe pitching over this most recent hot stretch.

Carlos Santana’s two-run home run in the top of the fourth proved to ultimately be the game winner behind Kazmir’s outstanding start. The home run was Santana’s 20th on the season and his 72nd and 73rd RBI of the season. Without a doubt, Santana is the Tribe’s best offensive weapon and the key cog in their success offensively. The better he hits, the better the results for the Tribe.

The Indians added on more runs in the fifth thanks to a two run double by Michael Bourn and an RBI single by Jason Kipnis.

The Indians will look to clinch a playoff spot today and win their tenth straight game to close out the 2013 season when Ubaldo Jimenez takes the mound against Scott Diamond.

Source: