The Royals made six moves Sunday before playing Houston.

Mondesi Bart Starr Jersey , the first player to make his major league debut in a World Series game, was recalled from Triple-A Omaha.

The Royals also called up outfielder Rosell Herrera and purchased the contract of right-hander Wily Peralta from Omaha. They optioned right-hander Scott Barlow and infielder Ramon Torres to their Pacific Coast League affiliate. They transferred left-handed pitcher Eric Skoglund to the 60-day disabled list.

Mondesi struck out as a pinch-hitter in the 2015 World Series against the New York Mets. He was once the Royals’ top prospect, but has been derailed by injuries and a 50-game drug suspension in 2016.

The 22-year-old opened the 2017 season as Kansas City’s starting second baseman, but was sent back to the minors after hitting .109 in his first 14 games. Mondesi, the son of former major league outfielder Raul Mondesi, has a .181 batting average with 60 strikeouts in 188 at-bats in 72 games in the majors.

”He’s never had success up here,” Royals manager Ned Yost said. ”He’s a young guy. You just try to pace him a little bit, play a couple of games here, a couple of games there and get his feet on the ground, let him start to have some success, which we all know he’s going to have, just let him ease into that.”

Yost said he plans to play Mondesi about four days a week.

”Every year he’s been hurt Bryan Bulaga Jersey , so that’s the concern,” Yost said. ”We want to try to get him through the year healthy. We wanted to get Mondesi back playing and get him up here, again to get some of our younger kids up that we’re going to move forward with up here and gaining that experience.”

Mondesi hit .250 with 16 extra-base hits, 21 RBIs and 10 stolen bases in 29 games at Triple-A.

The Royals claimed Herrera off waivers from Cincinnati on June 2. He hit .278 in 10 games with Omaha. He went 2 for 11 in 13 games earlier this season with the Reds.

”Herrera is very athletic,” Yost said. ”As an organization we haven’t seen him that much. He can play multiple positions. He can play all three positions in the outfield, can play some third base. It will be interesting to get a look at him.”

Peralta, a 17-game winner in 2014 with Milwaukee, signed with the Royals on December 5 as a free agent, but in spring training allowed 14 runs on 16 hits, including four home runs, and eight walks over eight innings. He began the year in the minors and posted a 4.37 ERA in 18 outings with Omaha, but had a 1.96 ERA on his last nine outings.

”Our whole goal with (Brandon) Maurer and Peralta was to get them throwing good and get them back here. That has been the case Dave Robinson Jersey ,” Yost said.

WASHINGTON — Red-hot Mark Reynolds and the Washington Nationals will go for the sweep in the finale of their four-game series against the Miami Marlins on Sunday.

Reynolds followed up his dramatic walk-off homer Friday night with two homers and a career-high 10 RBIs Saturday night as the Nationals demolished the Marlins 18-4.

In five at-bats, Reynolds homered, doubled, singled, homered and singled to tie his career high for hits along with the Nationals’ RBI mark.

“Yeah that’s like a good two weeks,” Reynolds said. “I mean like my last hit a guy dove and it went off his glove and went into left field. You got a little luck involved. Sometimes you just take a good swing the night before and feel confident going into the next day and that’s what happened.”

Since their team meeting following a July 4 loss to the Red Sox the Nationals (45-43) have won three straight, scoring 35 runs.

Manager Dave Martinez should rest easy, but now has a pleasant problem: where to put the righty Reynolds on Sunday when the Marlins pitch a right-hander and his other two first base options are lefty hitters.

“I’ve seen him like this, when he gets hot like this he can stay hot for a while, so we’ll have to figure something out,” Martinez said.

The Marlins got homers from Starlin Castro, J.T. Realmuto and Yadiel Rivera against Max Scherzer in a game that was tied 3-3 going to the bottom of the fifth before Washington pulled away for its 14th straight win over Miami.

“We haven’t had any success with them in a while now Ryan Jensen Color Rush Jersey ,” manager Don Mattingly said. “They’re a good lineup up and down, but we’ve pitched better than this.”

Scherzer (11-5) picked up his first win since June 5. Washington had been shut out in three of his past five starts.

“I remember I said after Tampa the run support is going to be there,” he said. “These guys are too good.”

Miami rookie Trevor Richards (2-5, 5.26 ERA) opposes right-hander Tanner Roark (3-10, 4.60) in the finale.

Roark is looking for his first win since June 6. Last time out he allowed nine runs on 10 hits — including two home runs — over seven innings of a loss to the Red Sox as he stayed in after a six-run fifth to save the arms in a tired bullpen.

“That’s the best I’ve felt in a long time,” Roark told MLB.com. “So other than two pitches, I feel like they base-hit me to death. What are you going to do?”

Roark is 5-8 with a 3.99 ERA in 22 games against the Marlins. Martin Prado is 10-for-23 against Roark and J.T. Realmuto is 10-for-26. Justin Bour is 5-for-29 but three of the hits were home runs.

Richards, who will make his first start against Washington, allowed four runs on nine hits with no walks across five innings in a no-decision Tuesday against the Rays. He struck out five. He is 2-3 with a 5.52 ERA since being recalled from Triple-A New Orleans on June 7.

Kluber (10-2, 1.99 ERA) has gone six starts, 41 innings and 168 consecutive batters since he last walked a hitter. His last walk came over a month ago, on May 8.

In six starts since then, Kluber is 5-0 with a 1.09 ERA, 46 strikeouts and no walks in 41 innings. Kluber this season almost has more wins than walks. He has 10 of each.

One of those 10 wins came against the Twins, on April 17, a 6-1 victory in which Kluber pitched 6 2/3 innings, allowing one run and five hits with six strikeouts and two walks.

How good has Kluber been this year? His ERA in his two losses and his two no-decisions is 2.30. He could very easily be 14-0.

His two losses were by the scores of 2-1 and 3-2. The score in one of his no-decisions was 3-2. In the other no-decision, the Indians were winning 2-0 in the seventh inning when Kluber was removed from the game.

In 20 career starts against Minnesota, Kluber has a record of 9-5 with a 3.21 ERA.

Cleveland returns home after going 4-3 on a trip to Detroit and Chicago Frank Ragnow Color Rush Jersey , although the Indians have scored just eight runs in their last three games.

“We’ve been scuffling to score some runs the last few days,” Indians manager Terry Francona said.

The Twins come to Cleveland having just lost two of three games in Detroit.

Kluber’s mound opponent of Friday will be right-hander Kyle Gibson (1-4, 3.45). Gibson’s only win came in his first start of the season, on March 31. Since then, he is 0-4 but with a decent 3.75 ERA.

Gibson’s biggest problem has been a lack of run support from his teammates. In Gibson’s 13 starts, the Twins have scored an average of 3.6 runs per game.

Gibson’s last start against Cleveland came June 3 when he received no decision in a 7-5 Minnesota win. In that game, Gibson pitched 5 2/3 innings, giving up two runs and two hits with seven strikeouts and two walks. In 14 career starts against Cleveland, Gibson is 2-6 with a 5.60 ERA.

Minnesota’s lineup for Friday’s game will have a different look after the Twins on Thursday optioned struggling third baseman Miguel Sano to Class A Fort Myers. After hitting .264 with 28 home runs and 77 RBIs last year, Sano this year was batting .203 with seven home runs and 27 RBIs, and he had struck out in nearly half (66) of his at-bats (148).

“He needs to be the guy we think he can be. He’s not there right now,” Twins manager Paul Molitor told MLB.com. “We have to take a step backwards here and determine the steps moving forward.”

The Twins are also expected to activate first baseman Joe Mauer off the disabled list on Friday. Mauer has been sidelined since May 18 with a neck strain. The Twins will announce another roster addition to replace outfielder Jake Cave Oren Burks Jersey , who was optioned to Triple-A Rochester on Thursday.

Addison Russell and Chicago Cubs took advantage of the warm, windy weather at Wrigley Field to power their way to a comeback win.

Russell hit his second career grand slam, Jason Heyward and Ben Zobrist each had two-run homers and the Cubs rallied to beat the Minnesota Twins 10-6 on Friday.

Kyle Schwarber added his 16th home run, a solo shot in the seventh, in a late afternoon contest that started with a temperature of 96 degrees and a 12-mph breeze blowing out. Anthony Rizzo completed Chicago’s scoring with an RBI single in the eighth as the Cubs pulled away to win their third game in four following a five-game slide.

Russell’s second homer – and four-RBI game – in two days chased Twins starter Jose Berrios (8-6) with one out the fifth and put Chicago ahead for the first time, 6-5. The shortstop’s deep fly to left was pushed by a steady southwest wind as it narrowly reached the Wrigley Field bleachers.

”I figured I got it pretty good, but I thought I hit it a little too high,” Russell said. ”I’m happy that it’s summertime in Chicago and now those balls are flying.”

Russell, who got off to a slow start this season, has seven hits in 17 at-bats over his last four games to raise his average to .282.

”I’ve just been really trying to work on my approach with (hitting coach Chili Davis) and myself, as well as my discipline at the plate,” Russell said. ”It looks like it’s getting better.”

Joe Mauer homered among three hits and finished with a season-high five RBIs for the Twins. Mauer hit a three-run shot in the second and lined a two-run double off Cubs starter Mike Montgomery in the fourth.

”Today Josh Jones Jersey , probably high-end extreme of favorable to the offensive side,” Twins manager Paul Molitor said of the weather. ”It played a little bit of a role in the game.

”I got a little bit of a boost I think on Joe’s ball and on (Russell’s) grand slam.”

Montgomery (3-2) lasted five innings and earned the win despite giving up five runs (three earned) and seven hits with three walks. Three Cubs relievers followed with a scoreless inning each before Justin Wilson allowed the Twins’ final run in the ninth.

Brandon Morrow came in to get the final out for his 17th save.

Berrios lacked his usual velocity as he yielded a season-high six runs and four walks. The right-hander was 3-0 with a 2.10 ERA over his previous five starts.

”I thought I lost a little bit of stamina out there,” Berrios said. ”Scorching hot.”

Mauer’s homer was just his second this season, following a solo shot on May 1, and he hit the opposite-field drive despite being ill. The 35-year-old first baseman last drove in five runs in a game last Sept. 17 against Toronto.

Mauer’s drive with two outs in the second made it 3-0. The wind helped his fly carry into the left-field basket.

Heyward lined Berrios’ first pitch to him in the third into the right-center bleachers to cut it to 3-2.

Mauer’s double to center field in the fourth and plated two runs to extend the Twins’ lead to 5-2.

After the Cubs loaded the bases in the fifth, Russell’s homer put them ahead. Zobrist added his two-run shot to right in the sixth off Matt Magill to make it 8-5.

BABY BOY BAEZ

INF Javier Baez wasn’t in the lineup following the birth of his son Friday morning. Baez, tied with Schwarber for the team lead with 16 homers, pinch hit in the seventh and struck out.

TRAINERS ROOM

Twins: INF/OF Taylor Motter was placed on the disabled list with concussion like symptoms after hitting his chest hard against right field wall at Guaranteed Rate Field on Thursday while trying to make a catch. … Minnesota recalled C/INF Willians Astudillo from Triple-A Rochester to take Motter’s roster spot. … The Twins designated RHP Felix Jorge for release or assignment.

Cubs: RHP Yu Darvish travelled to Texas to see orthopedic surgeon Keith Meister for a fresh opinion on his sore right triceps and got a new diagnosis: Right elbow impingement and inflammation. Darvish also got a cortisone shot that will take three-to-five days to settle in. The injury flared up in a bullpen session on Thursday in Los Angeles and forced the Cubs to scrub Darvish’s return to the rotation this weekend. . INF/OF Kris Bryant (left shoulder inflammation) hit off a tee and took infield practice on Friday. He could return on Tuesday when he’s eligible to come off the disabled list. … RHP Carl Edwards Jr. (right shoulder inflammation) was scheduled to make a rehab outing at Triple-A Iowa on Friday and is nearing a return from the DL.

UP NEXT

Twins LHP Adalberto Mejia makes his first major league appearance of the season and faces Cubs RHP Tyler Chatwood (3-5, 3.95), who comes off the paternity list. Mejia is 4-2 with 2.74 ERA in 11 games (nine starts) for Triple-A Rochester, and was 4-7 with 4.50 ERA in 21 starts for the Twins in 2017. The Twins sent RHP Alan Busenitz down to make room for him.

—

Miami Dolphins owner Stephen Ross says he won’t force his players to stand for the national anthem [url=http://www.officialdevils.com/authentic-adidas-drew-stafford-jersey]Drew Stafford Jersey[/url] , even though he believes kneeling is a counterproductive way to promote social justice.

Ross’ comments Tuesday in a statement released by the Dolphins came after the New York Daily News reported that he said all of the team’s players will stand for the anthem in 2018. Ross was in New York on Monday to be honored by the Jackie Robinson Foundation and receive its ROBIE Lifetime Achievement Award.

”I have no intention of forcing our players to stand during the anthem, and I regret that my comments have been misconstrued,” Ross said in his statement.

”I’ve shared my opinion with all our players: I’m passionate about the cause of social justice, and I feel that kneeling is an ineffective tactic that alienates more people than it enlists.”

Colin Kaepernick started the NFL anthem movement when he was with the San Francisco 49ers in 2016 to protest racial inequality and police brutality. President Donald Trump has criticized the movement [url=http://www.49ersauthorizedshops.com/authentic-fred-warner-jersey]49ers Fred Warner Jersey[/url] , saying it’s disrespectful to service members.

”I know our players care about the military and law enforcement too,” Ross said in his statement, ”because I’ve seen the same players who are fighting for social justice engaging positively with law enforcement and the military. I care passionately that the message of social justice resonates far and wide, and I will continue to support and fund efforts for those who fight for equality for all.”

Dolphins players Julius Thomas [url=http://www.49ersauthorizedshops.com/authentic-tarvarius-moore-jersey]49ers Tarvarius Moore Jersey[/url] , Michael Thomas and Kenny Stills knelt during the anthem before games last season. At one point coach Adam Gase established a team rule requiring players either to stand for the anthem or stay in the tunnel.

When protesting players told Gase waiting in the tunnel was interfering with their game preparation, he relaxed the rule and allowed them to resume their sideline kneeling.

Stills was the Dolphins’ nominee for the NFL’s Walter Payton Man of the Year Award, which honors involvement in the community and performance on the field. He’s expected to be back with Miami with 2018, but Julius Thomas and Michael Thomas are less likely to return.

—

The Cincinnati Reds traded right-hander Dylan Floro and a minor league pitcher to the Los Angeles Dodgers on Wednesday for two minor league pitchers.

The Reds also optioned utility player Brandon Dixon to Triple-A Louisville and recalled Tanner Rainey and Cody Reed from Louisville to bolster a depleted bullpen.

The Dodgers sent James Marinan and Anerurys Zabala to the Reds for Floro [url=http://www.49ersauthorizedshops.com/authentic-kentavius-street-jersey]49ers Kentavius Street Jersey[/url] , Zach Neal and international signing bonus pool space. Marinan锟絯ill report to Billings of the rookie-level Pioneer League and锟絑abala锟絫o Single-A Dayton.

Floro was 3-2 with a 2.72 ERA in 25 relief appearances this season with Cincinnati.

”He’s got a good arm, a heavy sinker, puts the ball in the ground,” Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said. ”He’s a guy that can go multiple innings if we need as well.”

Rainey had no record in five previous stints with the Reds this season. Reed had spent the entire season with the Bats.

Dixon hit .219 with a home run over 29 games [url=http://www.arizonacardinalsteamonline.com/josh-rosen-jersey]Authentic Josh Rosen Jersey[/url] , including 2 for 8 with two RBIs as a pinch hitter.

To make room on the 40-man roster, the Dodgers designated right-hander Daniel Corcino for assignment.

—

 

Another Dodgers pitcher has landed on the disabled list. This time [url=http://www.eaglesauthorizedshops.com/authentic-paul-worrilow-jersey]Eagles Paul Worrilow Jersey[/url] , it’s rookie Walker Buehler.

The 23-year-old right-hander underwent an MRI that revealed a right rib microfracture, an injury he sustained when he was hit by a 108-mph line drive by Colorado’s Trevor Story on May 21.

Buehler remained in that game and went on to make three more starts despite feeling slight discomfort. Last Friday, he was pulled after 5 1/3 innings when manager Dave Roberts spotted issues with Buehler’s mechanics.

Roberts said the start of Buehler’s DL stint was backdated and he will be available on June 19.

Buehler played catch on Tuesday to keep his arm in shape.

He has made nine starts this season, going 4-1 with a 2.63 ERA, 54 strikeouts and 11 walks.

—

Spot starter John Gant pitched one-hit ball over a career-high seven innings, Marcell Ozuna hit a two-run double and the St. Louis Cardinals beat the Cleveland Indians 4-0 on Monday night.

It was the third consecutive win for the Cardinals and the 10,000th regular season victory for the franchise. St. Louis joined the Braves, Cubs, Giants [url=http://www.eaglesauthorizedshops.com/authentic-richard-rodgers-jersey]Eagles Richard Rodgers Jersey[/url] , Pirates and Dodgers among NL teams to reach the milestone.

Cleveland had won seven straight. Mike Clevinger (6-3) allowed two runs over five innings, and the Indians had just four hits.

Gant (2-2) started in place of Michael Wacha, who went on the disabled list last week with an oblique strain. He allowed only an infield single to Yan Gomes that hit third base in the third inning. He walked five and struck out four. It was his first win in three starts this season.

St. Louis closer Bud Norris relieved Austin Gomber with two on and no outs in the ninth. He got a strikeout and a double play to record his 15th save.

Cardinals reliever Jordan Hicks put two runners on in the eighth with two outs but got Edwin Encarnacion to ground out.

It was the second shortest outing of the season for Clevinger, who allowed six hits and walked two. Clevinger had pitched at least six innings in five straight starts before facing St. Louis.

St. Louis took a 2-0 lead in the third. Matt Carpenter singled for one of his three hits, and Greg Garcia walked. With one out, Ozuna hit a one-out double to score both runners.

Kolten Wong added an RBI double in the sixth, and Harrison Bader singled in a run in the eighth.

This was Cleveland’s first visit to St. Louis since 2012, and the Indians fell to 15-9 all-time against the Cardinals.

RAIN DELAY

First pitch was pushed back due to a thunderstorm in the area. The game began after a 1-hour, 21-minute delay.

TRAINING ROOM

Indians: RHP Carlos Carrasco (right elbow contusion) threw a 25-pitch bullpen session. He got hurt when Minnesota’s Joe Mauer hit a line drive that struck Carrasco on the right elbow on June 16 in Cleveland. The plan is to throw 40 pitches off the mound Wednesday and then perhaps make a minor league rehab appearance as early as Saturday.

Cardinals: CF Tommy Pham did not start for the second consecutive game due to flu-like symptoms [url=http://www.greenbaypackersteamonline.com/jk-scott-jersey]JK Scott Jersey[/url] , but he came in a double-switch situation in the ninth inning. … RHP Matt Bowman threw a fastball-only session in the bullpen before the game. He will receive an injection to stimulate blood flow to his fingers Tuesday, according to general manager Michael Girsch. … Girsch said RHP Adam Wainwright (right elbow inflammation) should be able to begin playing catch next week.

UP NEXT

Indians: Corey Kluber (11-3, 2.10) will be making his second career start against the Cardinals. In the May 13, 2015 start, Kluber struck out a career-high 18 batters, matching the Indians franchise record for a nine-inning game.

Cardinals: Carlos Martinez (3-4, 3.24) has dropped his last three decisions and allowed a season-high eight hits and seven runs in his last outing at Milwaukee. The Cardinals have lost his last five games, including all four since his return from the disabled list.

—

The Bengals signed defensive tackle Chris Baker to a one-year deal on Thursday [url=http://www.49ersauthorizedshops.com/authentic-dante-pettis-jersey]49ers Dante Pettis Jersey[/url] , their first free agent acquisition on defense under new coordinator Teryl Austin.

Baker played with Tampa Bay last season after spending six seasons with Washington and one each with Miami and Denver. The Broncos originally signed him as an undrafted free agent from Hampton.

The ninth-year veteran has started 53 games in the past four seasons. He has 12 career sacks.

He’ll get a chance to become part of the Bengals’ rotation on the defensive line. The defense finished 18th in the NFL in yards allowed last season under coordinator Paul Guenther, who left for the Raiders after the season. Austin was signed from Detroit.

—

The Panthers announced the addition of six assistant coaches to Ron Rivera’s staff, including former Michigan head coach Brady Hoke as the new defensive line coach.

Carolina also promoted Chase Blackburn to special teams coordinator [url=http://www.greenbaypackersteamonline.com/tramon-williams-jersey]Tramon Williams Jersey[/url] , and hired Steve Russ as linebackers coach, Scott Turner as quarterbacks coach, Heath Farwell as assistant special teams coach and Travelle Wharton as assistant offensive line coach.

Hoke makes his NFL coaching debut following 34 years coaching at the collegiate level [url=http://www.patriotsauthorizedshop.com/authentic-adrian-clayborn-jersey]Patriots Adrian Clayborn Jersey[/url] , including 12 seasons as a head coach with Michigan (2011-14), San Diego State (2009-10) and Ball State (2003-08).

Hoke spent the 2017 season as Tennessee’s as associate head coach/defensive line coach. He served as the Volunteers’ interim head coach following Butch Jones’ departure. He previously spent 20 seasons coaching the defensive line at the collegiate level.

—

 

Houston Astros catcher Brian McCann finally got to a point that something had to be done to try to fix his troublesome right knee.

McCann had arthroscopic surgery Tuesday after going on the disabled list for the second time this season [url=http://www.thetexansfootballauthentic.com/justin-reid-jersey-authentic]Youth Justin Reid Jersey[/url] , and the third time in less than a year, because of knee discomfort.

Astros general manager Jeff Luhnow told MLB.com and the Houston Chronicle during a 5-3 win at Texas that the team was optimistic that the surgery would resolve the issue that kept recurring. While not specific about the procedure or a timetable, the GM said he’d expect McCann back in September to get ready for October.

Manager A.J. Hinch said before the Astros’ 5-3 win at Texas that he and McCann had a long conversation about the knee problems when the team played in Tampa last weekend.

”It’s just continually the same issue over and over with his right knee,” Hinch said. ”One of the options is surgery, and he went back to Houston to take care of it.”

Catcher Tim Federowicz, who made two starts earlier this season when McCann was on the DL, was promoted from Triple-A Fresno.

Max Stassi was the Astros’ starting catcher Tuesday night against the Rangers. Hinch said Stassi would get the bulk of the catching during McCann’s absence.

But Stassi never got behind the plate against the Rangers. He was hit by a pitch on his right (throwing) wrist while batting in the first inning. He stayed in the game to run, but Federowicz went to catch when the Astros took the field.

X-rays were negative, but Stassi has a bruised wrist and was considered day to day.

Shortstop Carlos Correa, who has been out since June 26 because of lower back soreness [url=http://www.coltscheapshop.com/cheap-authentic-t.j.-green-jersey]T.J. Green Jersey[/url] , also was back in Houston. He is eligible to come off the DL as early as Friday, though Hinch wasn’t sure if Correa would be ready to play then.

”He’s been reporting to Minute Maid (Park) every day and working with our people there,” Hinch said. ”The good news is that everything has been a step forward. The uncertainty is still we haven’t done any baseball activities yet, so we don’t know how that’s going to impact his timeline until we get home.”

McCann missed nine games during his first DL stint this season before being activated June 8, the last time Houston played at the Rangers.

He was also on the DL for 11 days last August because of right knee soreness before the Astros went on to win their first World Series title. McCann played in all seven World Series games.

His latest DL move was retroactive to Monday, a day off for Houston.

McCann has hit .206 with five homers and 17 RBIs in 50 games this season. He was in a 1-for-26 slump before going on the DL for the first time this season on May 29. He hit .171 (7-of-41) with one homer and three RBIs in his 13 games in June after returning from the DL.

Stassi has hit .255 with seven homers and 22 RBIs in 49 games for the Astros. Federowicz hit .328 with six homers and 22 RBIs in 38 games at Fresno.

”I have a lot of confidence in Stassi and Fed, both with major league time,” Hinch said. ”They’re comfortable, they know our pitchers, they know our program [url=http://www.officialducks.com/authentic-adidas-ryan-miller-jersey]Ryan Miller Jersey[/url] , our preparation, all things that make me feel really good about going into each particular game.”

—

When Paul Blackburn needed 47 pitches to make it through the first two innings, it didn’t seem he would last long for the Oakland Athletics.

Then Blackburn found his groove and led the streaking A’s to another win.

Blackburn pitched shutout ball into the seventh inning and Oakland won its fifth straight game, beating the Cleveland Indians 3-1 on Friday night.

”It was just finding a tempo and rhythm,” Blackburn said. ”It’s something I’ve struggled with the first couple of innings. Once I get over that hump in the second inning, I feel like everything is more put together.”

Marcus Semien and Khris Davis drove in runs against Trevor Bauer (7-6) as the A’s followed up a four-game sweep at Detroit with a win in the opener of a five-game homestand.

Jed Lowrie provided insurance with a solo homer in the eighth off Zach McAllister to move Oakland a season-high seven games over .500.

”Games like that, it feels like a 10-run homer,” manager Bob Melvin said. ”The guys coming to the plate get your attention in the last inning. It was paramount. It gives you a little bit of wiggle room.”

Blake Treinen allowed two baserunners in the ninth before earning his 21st save in 23 chances. He has converted 18 straight save opportunities.

Blackburn (2-2) had a 12.70 ERA his past three starts and struggled early against Cleveland, with four of the first seven batters reaching base safely. But a caught stealing and a double play helped him make it through the first two innings unscathed and he settled down from there.

He retired 14 of the final 15 batters he faced, allowing only a two-out walk to Yonder Alonso in the fourth before leaving after retiring Edwin Encarnacion to open the seventh. Blackburn allowed three hits and struck out five.

Francisco Lindor hit an RBI double off Yusmeiro Petit in the eighth inning for Cleveland.

The A’s [url=http://www.jetsauthorizedshops.com/authentic-sam-darnold-jersey]Authentic Sam Darnold Jersey[/url] , who score nearly two fewer runs per game at home than on the road, managed to get single runs against Bauer in the second and sixth innings. Matt Olson doubled in the second and scored on Semien’s two-out hit.

Oakland added an insurance run in the sixth when Matt Joyce singled and scored on Davis’ double.

”He seemed to be very patient so I wanted to make a point of getting ahead in that count,” Bauer said. ”He hit a bad pitch. He’s a good hitter. That’s what you’re supposed to do with hanging breaking balls, hit them.”

Bauer allowed two runs and six hits in 6 2/3 innings, striking out eight. His 148 strikeouts are the most for a Cleveland pitcher before the end of June since Sam McDowell had 151 in 1970.

TRAINER’S ROOM

Indians: Manager Terry Francona said the team will have a decision soon on the status of injured starter Danny Salazar, who has been on the DL all season with a right shoulder injury. Francona said the team is ”exploring some things” and said he would have more information in the next couple of days.

Athletics: 3B Matt Chapman (hand) took grounders and hit off a tee. He will take BP on Sunday and could be back as early as next week. … RHP Andrew Triggs (right arm nerve irritation) had his rehab shut down because he felt tingling in fingers. He will get a second opinion next week. … RHP Trevor Cahill (right Achilles) threw a 30-pitch bullpen session and will either have a lengthier bullpen session or simulation game next in his rehab.

UP NEXT

Edwin Jackson (0-0) makes his second start for Oakland after allowing one run in six innings of a no-decision in his debut against Detroit. His nine-game winning streak against Cleveland is the longest since Storm Davis also won nine straight vs. the Indians from 1986-92. Adam Plutko (4-1) starts for Cleveland.

—

 

The Washington Nationals have activated right-hander Jeremy Hellickson from the 10-day disabled list and will start him against Philadelphia.

The Nationals made the move before playing at Citizens Bank Park on Saturday. Reliever Sammy Solis was sent to Triple-A Syracuse.

Hellickson is 2-0 with a 2.28 ERA in nine starts this season. The veteran right-hander has been sidelined since June 4 with a right hamstring strain. He was 6-5 for Philadelphia last year.

Solis is 1-1 with a 4.50 ERA in 40 games this season. In 28 innings [url=http://www.officialsharks.com/authentic-adidas-mikkel-boedker-jersey]Mikkel Boedker Jersey[/url] , the left-hander has allowed 22 hits with 30 strikeouts and 15 walks.

Also, Washington transferred third baseman Ryan Zimmerman, who has been out since May 10 with a strained right oblique, to the 60-day DL.

The Nationals reinstated catcher Raudy Read from the restricted list and optioned him to Triple-A Syracuse. Read [url=http://www.officialsharks.com/authentic-adidas-tim-heed-jersey]Tim Heed Jersey[/url] , who appeared in eight games last season, is coming off an 80-game suspension after testing positive for a performance-enhancing substance.

New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady returned to full practice nine days before the Super Bowl, but tight end Rob Gronkowski is still recovering from a concussion.

In the injury report issued on Friday, the team said neither Gronkowski nor defensive lineman Deatrich Wise would play if the game were this Sunday. With the extra week off before the Super Bowl against the Philadelphia Eagles [url=http://www.officialsharks.com/authentic-adidas-tomas-hertl-jersey]Tomas Hertl Jersey[/url] , however, there is still time.

Brady required stitches in his right hand and thumb after an injury in practice last week. After missing parts of practice leading up to the AFC championship, he started in the game against the Jacksonville Jaguars and led New England to a 24-20 victory.

Defensive lineman Malcom Brown (foot) also missed practice on Friday for the second straight day. Offensive lineman LaAdrian Waddle and running back Mike Gillislee missed part of practice for the third day in a row.

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AP NFL website:

NEW ORLEANS — The commonly accepted myth about the difficulty of beating a team three times in one season will be put to its latest test when the NFC South champion New Orleans Saints (11-5) host their division rivals [url=http://www.officialsharks.com/authentic-adidas-martin-jones-jersey]Martin Jones Jersey[/url] , the Carolina Panthers (11-5), in a wild-card playoff game Sunday at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome.

The Saints turned around an 0-2 season by beating the Panthers 34-13 in Charlotte in Week 3, igniting an eight-game winning streak. They then beat them in the Superdome 31-21 on Dec. 3.

Since the NFL-AFL merger in 1970, teams that swept the regular-season series also won the playoff game 13 of 20 times, a 65 percent edge.

The Saints are not banking their hopes on statistical probabilities but on a balanced offense that does not rely on 45 throws a game by Drew Brees and on a revitalized defense that so far has withstood a withering number of injuries to starters.

Brees, who will turn 39 on Jan. 15, said he does feel an internal clock ticking on his career but treats every game with respect.

“I prepare like every game could be my last or (like) it’s a playoff game or I’ve got something to prove and I’ve got an edge,” Brees said. “It’s not like, ‘Oh, the playoffs are here, it’s time to ramp it up or things are a little more important.’ It’s always important for me.”

There were some common threads in the Saints’ two regular-season victories over Carolina. The Panthers are ranked No. 7 in the NFL on defense, allowing 317.2 yards per game, and just 88.1 yards rushing, third best in the league. But Carolina yielded their most yards rushing this season to the Saints — 149 yards in Week 3 and 148 in Week 13.

That’s a credit to rookie sensation Alvin Kamara and veteran running back Mark Ingram as well as to the Saints’ offensive line. Brees is the biggest beneficiary of a powerful running attack that is averaging 4.7 yards per carry, best in the NFL, and 129.4 yards per game, fifth in the league.

Brees threw 137 fewer passes this year (536) but connected on 386 for an NFL-record 72.0 completion percentage. His 4,334 passing yards are nearly 800 yards fewer than his 2016 totals but just about equal to his 4,388 passing yards in 2009, the Saints’ Super Bowl season.

“Sure is nice,” Brees said, smiling. “Does it change the way I prepare? No. Does it change my mindset going into a game? No. It’s just that when you add up the number of throws … if you take away five, seven, 10 attempts a game and those are going to the run game, that means you’re doing something right in the run game, and it probably means you’re playing good defense. It doesn’t force me to take as many chances.”

The Saints also have done an excellent job putting a vise around Carolina quarterback Cam Newton [url=http://www.officialsharks.com/authentic-adidas-melker-karlsson-jersey]Melker Karlsson Jersey[/url] , who happens to be the Panthers’ leading rusher. Newton has passed for just 350 yards in the two losses. He threw three interceptions in the first meeting, including one in the end zone. He is a dangerous runner, but his only gash run against the Saints this year was a 32-yard scramble in garbage time.

The Panthers could have won the NFC South outright last week but were hamstrung by an inept offensive performance in a 22-10 loss to the Falcons. Newton completed just 14 of 34 passes for 180 yards and was picked off three times.

Newton said the Panthers have erased that game from their memory banks and are poised to make a playoff statement.

“This is when real football starts,” said Newton, who led the Panthers to the Super Bowl in 2015 with a 15-1 regular-season record. “(We’re) explaining it to the young guys and the guys who haven’t witnessed playoff football. This is where you are made or broke. I look forward to these types of moments because it brings out the best in individuals because there is so much pressure. We all know what they say about pressure — it does one of two things — and we’re hoping to shine like diamonds.”

Each team will have a significant player available who did not play in either of the first two games: Carolina tight end Greg Olsen, who has been battling a foot injury all season, and Saints rookie cornerback Marshon Lattimore.

Saints coach Sean Payton said if Olsen is healthy, it could pose a threat to his defense because Olsen is “one of the better tight ends in the game. Not having him is significant and having him is huge.”

Carolina coach Ron Rivera knows that Lattimore, who made the Pro Bowl, can help the Saints shut down any deep threat the Panthers have. Lattimore normally shadows the opponent’s best receiver, so he may draw Devin Funchess, who has 63 catches for 840 yards.

“When I watch (Lattimore), he’s a terrific football player,” Rivera said.

The Panthers hope to have guard Trai Turner back after missing three games with concussion symptoms. Saints starting left tackle Terron Armstead (thigh) and wide receiver Michael Thomas (hamstring) were limited in practice on Wednesday but should be able to go.

PHOENIX — Like pitching?

The final game of the St. Louis-Arizona series Wednesday features a couple starters who have had strong seasons but also should be considered under-the-radar All-Star candidates, at least for those who have not been paying close attention.

You could look it up.

Arizona left-hander Patrick Corbin and St. Louis right-hander Miles Mikolas rank in the top 10 among NL qualifiers in ERA, WHIP, WAR and innings pitched. The only statistical difference is in strikeouts, where Corbin is tied for second and Mikolas is down the pack. Mikolas compensates by pitching to contact and getting the majority of his outs on the ground.

They are compatible in one more way — each has received below-average run support. Corbin has received the fourth-fewest, 3.65 per start. Mikolas’ support checks in under the league average.

Arizona used a three-run homer from Paul Goldschmidt to take a 4-2 victory Tuesday as the teams have split the first two games of the series. Arizona will conclude a 10-game homestand with a four-game set with San Diego beginning Thursday, when the Cardinals open a four-game series in San Francisco before finishing a nine-game trip in Chicago against the White Sox.

Mikolas, 29, has been perhaps the most pleasant surprise in the major leagues this season, signing with the Cardinals over the winter after three strong seasons for the Yomiuri Giants in the Japanese Central League. He was 3-13 with a 2.18 ERA in 62 starts in Japan after being released by Texas in November 2014.

“Obviously this season he’s been fantastic,” Cardinals manager Mike Matheny said. “He should be sitting on 10 wins right now. Two of the losses he had, he had us right there. He just matched up with a pitcher we couldn’t get much going against. Miles has been very good.”

Mikolas has made 11 quality starts, tied for fourth in the league. After starting the season 6-0 [url=http://www.saintscheapshops.com]Saints Cheap Jerseys[/url] , he has lost three of his five decisions in June despite posting five quality starts and giving up one earned run in two of his losses.

“A guy who just attacks the strike zone,” Matheny said.

“He has very good stuff. Doesn’t make a lot of mistakes. Not afraid to use his defense. He has been just an incredible surprise for us. What a great pickup for our organization and a salute to our scouts who are finding people like Miles who are out there.

“He figured something out while he was in Japan. The way he goes about his business, not just how he competes but how he prepares, you could see that being something that sticks around for awhile.”

Mikolas and Corbin are tied for second in the league in WHIP (0.99). Mikolas is sixth and Corbin ninth in ERA and innings pitched, and Mikolas is seventh and Corbin ninth in WAR.

Each has one of the five shutouts thrown in the NL this season. Washington’s Max Scherzer, Pittsburgh’s Jameson Taillon and Atlanta’s Mike Foltynewicz have the others.

Corbin, 6-3 with a 3.14 ERA, has made two straight quality starts, giving up only one run and in 13 innings, but did not receive a decision in either game. He had extra rest the last time through the rotation after pitching seven scoreless innings while striking out 12 in a no-decision at Pittsburgh, when he threw a season-high 102 pitches. He gave up one run in six innings against San Francisco on Friday, pitching on six days’ rest.

“He (gets) into trouble, doesn’t get rattled, and continues to pound the zone and get big outs. He’s done a very good job,” Arizona manager Torey Lovullo said.

Jeff Mathis, one of two healthy catchers on the Arizona roster with Alex Avila on the disabled list, will catch Corbin for the third straight start.

“I like the way Jeff gets Patrick to do certain things at certain times and shows confidence in certain pitches, and helps him execute by showing that confidence,” Lovullo said. “Jeff has such respect from anyone on this staff that when he asks for something they listen.”

Corbin has received 3.65 runs per start, tied for the third fewest in the league. He is 1-1 with a 4.50 ERA in four career starts against St. Louis and is 4-3 with a 3.69 ERA in 10 starts at home this sesaon.

Mikolas, who spent previous major league seasons with San Diego and Texas, has never started against Arizona and has given one run in 4 1/3 innings in two career relief appearances, a Justin Upton homer in 2012. This will be his first appearance at Chase Field.

The defense attorney for the late Aaron Hernandez is writing a book about the former NFL star and promises ”shocking revelations.”

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A look at what’s happening around the majors today:

HITTING BRAVES

Among the many things the Atlanta Braves have done right on their way to leading the National League East this season, they’ve been getting hits. The Braves began their series against fellow division leader Milwaukee on Thursday night with three of the top four hits leaders in the NL, with outfielder Nick Markakis (108) leading the way and infielder Ozzie Albies (102) and Freddie Freeman (101) close behind in third and fourth, respectively. It’s the first time in franchise history the team has had three players reach 100 hits prior to the All-Star game, and the Braves will continue their series when Mike Foltynewicz and Freddy Peralta face off.

GOING GRAY

In a season full of highlights for the New York Yankees, right-hander Sonny Gray has been one of the team’s biggest disappointments in his first full season with club. Gray will try and rebound from his worst start of the season when the Yankees begin a weekend series in Toronto against the Blue Jays. After being acquired from Oakland last season, Gray is 5-6 with 5.44 ERA this season and is coming off an 11-0 loss to Boston last weekend in which he allowed six runs in only 2 1/3 innings.

CHICAGO SEEING RED

Two weeks ago [url=http://www.officialpredators.com/authentic-adidas-matt-irwin-jersey]Youth Matt Irwin Jersey[/url] , the Chicago Cubs suffered through an embarrassing four-game sweep in Cincinnati – beginning a stretch of six losses in seven games. Chicago has won six straight games since that rough patch, and has the opportunity to make amends with the Reds when the two teams begin a weekend series at Wrigley Field. Mike Montgomery (3-2) starts for Chicago, and Tyler Mahle (6-6) takes the mound for Cincinnati.

ACE OF NEW YORK

Despite the struggles of the New York Mets for much of the season, Jacob deGrom has been one of the NL’s most dominant starters. The right-hander leads the league with his 1.84 ERA and will be back at work when he takes the mound against the visiting Tampa Bay Rays. He has allowed three runs in each of his last two starts, the first time he’s allowed three or more runs in back-to-back games since April.

SUMMER KING

Seattle Mariners right-hander Felix Hernandez (8-6) put together his best full month of the season in June, posting a 3.71 ERA in six starts and lowering his overall ERA from 5.83 to 5.11 in the process. The 2010 Cy Young award winner will try and extend his improved performance into July when he starts in an interleague game against the visiting Colorado Rockies.

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