Clevinger, Lindor provide big ‘spark’

CLEVELAND — Mike Clevinger struck out 10, Francisco Lindor hit another leadoff homer and the Indians moved closer to their third straight AL Central title with a 9-3 win over the Royals on Tuesday night.

The Indians ended a threegame losing streak and reduced their magic number for clinching another division title to 11.

Not only did the Royals have their season-high winning streak stopped at six, but they lost starting pitcher Danny Duffy and rookie right fielder Brett Phillips to injuries.

Following the game, Duffy said his season is over. He was on the disabled list from Aug. 13 to 23 with shoulder issues.

Staked to a 6-0 lead after two innings, Clevinger (11-7) allowed just three hits in six innings and remained unbeaten in his last seven starts. The right-hander, who could have a big role for the Indians in October, had a little more velocity on his fastball and struck out six of nine in one dominant stretch.

Lindor connected for his 31st homer in the first against Duffy (8-12), who left moments later with a sore left shoulder.

Yandy Diaz hit his first major- league homer and Jason Kipnis added two RBI for the Indians.

After the Indians lost Monday, Lindor talked about the Indians being flat and needing a spark.

The All-Star shortstop provided an early one with his sixth leadoff homer —one shy of the club record set by Grady Sizemore in 2008 — as the Indians jumped to a 3-0 lead on Duffy.

Diaz picked up an RBI on a fielder’s choice and Kipnis, who is moving from second base to center field, singled home a run in the inning before Duffy was removed after 26 pitches.

The Indians added three runs in the second.