Miller returns for Cleveland, but stumbles
The Indians thought they would be buoyed by Friday’s return of reliever Andrew Miller, who was activated from the disabled list before their game against the Royals.
Their hopes were dashed, however, as Miller gave up a two-run home run that allowed Kansas City to rally for a 10-9 win after trailing 9-4.
The Indians struggled mightily without the left-hander, who was sidelined since April 25 because of a strained left hamstring.
Cleveland’s relievers compiled a 9.50 ERA in 36 innings and the Indians went 5-9 without Miller. Five of the losses came after Cleveland was leading or tied in the eighth inning or later.
“It sure is nice to have him back,” manager Terry Francona said before the game. “He’s healthy.”
The runs were the first of the season off Miller, who had pitched 10 scoreless innings and struck out 17 in 11 appearances.
Miller’s absence led to several role changes for relievers. Roster moves because of poor performances and injuries followed.
“Those are things that stand out,” Miller said. “When you lose guys who you really like and you want to be a part of the team, and guys get hurt, those are bigger-picture items.”
Francona considered sending Miller on minorleague rehab assignments.
“He honestly couldn’t say that that would help him,” Francona said.
Mets’ updates: The Mets will skip struggling lefthander Jason Vargas’ next turn in the rotation Tuesday. Manager Mickey Callaway said Vargas will instead throw a simulated game before the Mets host Toronto. Vargas is 0-3 with a 13.86 ERA since returning from surgery on his right hand. Also, the Mets placed outfielder Jay Bruce on the paternity leave list with his wife due to give birth to the couple’s second child. He was replaced by first baseman Dominic Smith, who was recalled from Triple-A Las Vegas. The Mets also placed right-hander Hansel Robles on the 10-day DL, retroactive to Wednesday, with a sprained right knee.
Briefly: Houston outfielder George Springer is day-to-day with a bruised left elbow after being hit by a 92 mph pitch from Texas starter Cole Hamels . ... The Rangers activated second baseman Rougned Odor from the 10-day disabled list, recovered from a left hamstring strain . ... Milwaukee optioned outfielder Brett Phillips to Triple-A Colorado Springs and recalled right-handed pitcher Brandon Woodruff . ... Baltimore placed struggling right-hander Chris Tillman on the 10-day DL with a lower back strain and recalled right-handed reliever Jimmy Yacabonis from Triple-A Norfolk . ... Washington outfielder Adam Eaton was transferred to the 60-day disabled list a day after he had surgery on his left ankle.