Throughout Spring Training, Manny Acta told anyone who would listen that Carlos Carrasco had the potential to be a premier pitcher in the American League. The overwhelming response was a subtle rolling of the eyes because Carrasco, a September call-up in 2009 and 2010, had never pitched in a meaningful big leauge game. But since returning from the disabled list on May 11th Carrasco has begun to show why his manager was so talkative prior to the season.
On Monday night at Yankee Stadium, Carrasco helped the Indians halt a 4-game slide as he tossed 7 scoreless innings. Using a variety of nasty pitches, the right-hander whiffed 7 and earned his 6th victory.
Carrasco played the role of Houdini in each of the 1st 3 frames, but he walked his most difficult tightrope in the 1st. 2 singles, including Derek Jeter's 2,994th career base-hit, and a walk loaded the bases before Carrasco could record a single out. However, Alex Rodriguez flied out to shallow center field, Robinson Cano struck out, and Nick Swisher grounded out to shortstop. Carrasco had escaped unscathed.
For his 2nd consecutive start, Carrasco received, and needed, only 1 run. In the top of the 4th, Michael Brantley tripled and scored on Asdrubal Cabrera's high chopper that snuck through the left side of the infield.
Following Carrasco's exit, the bullpen mowed down the Yankees. Tony Sipp and Vinnie Pestano combined to post a goose egg in the 8th, and Chris Perez struck out the side in the 9th to merit his 16th save.
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| Jack Hannahan's stellar defensive play supported Carrasco |
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