The Oakland Athletics seek a fifth straight win on Wednesday when they continue a four-game set with the hapless Cleveland Indians at Progressive Field.
After losing their first two games this season to Cleveland, the A's have rattled off six straight wins versus the Tribe. That trend continued on Tuesday, as Brandon Moss hit a two-run home run and drove in three while Tom Milone pitched six strong innings to power the Athletics to a 7-0 win.
Milone (11-9) gave up seven hits and a walk with five strikeouts while Chris Carter went 3-for-5 with a solo homer, two RBI and two runs scored for the A's, who won the opener, 3-0, and have blanked the Indians three straight times.
"He's pitched several games this year in the fashion he did tonight," said Oakland manager Bob Melvin about Milone. "When we need him to make good pitches, he usually does it."
Oakland remained tied with the Baltimore Orioles for the AL wild card lead.
Zach McAllister (5-5) was touched for five runs on nine hits over just 4 1/3 innings to take the loss. Carlos Santana had two of the eight hits for the Indians, who have lost three straight and 12 of 13.
"Offensively we just couldn't do much," said Cleveland manager Manny Acta. "We couldn't put the ball in play when we had guys on base and that will always hurt you."
Hoping for another gem on Wednesday, the A's turn to lefty Travis Blackley, who makes a spot start. Blackley has appeared in 18 games (11 starts) for the A's this season and is 4-3 with a 3.52 ERA.
"We just felt like we're better off going with a guy who's more stretched out at this point," Melvin said. "He's been really good for us in a number of roles. Not only that, but he probably deserves the start."
Blackley lost his only other start against the Indians back in 2004.
Cleveland, meanwhile, will counter with rookie Corey Kluber, who is 0-2 with a 5.32 ERA. Kluber did not get a decision against the New York Yankees on Friday, but pitched well, as he allowed a run and six hits in five innings. He also struck out six and walked a pair in the 3-1 loss.
He has received one run of support in 13 1/3 innings over his last three starts.
Kluber lost to the A's two starts ago, surrendering four runs in five innings.
Oakland's streak against Cleveland is its best since posting eight straight wins in the series in 1998.
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