(Photo by Ron Schwane/Getty Images)
CLEVELAND, OH -- A packed Progressive Field saw an instant classic between the Royals and Indians on Friday night. Kansas City launched a game tying solo home run in the top of the 8th inning, and that was still not the most exciting thing to transpire in that inning. In the bottom half of the 8th, Daniel Johnson was in a rundown between third base and home when he slid into third base, appearing to be safe, while the runner on second base slid into the same bag, causing instant confusion. The home plate umpire stepped up and called both runners at the bag out, and Indians manager Terry Francona was not happy about it. Francona jogged out of the dugout and argued the apparent call, eventually getting tossed after a screaming match. A fired up Bobby Bradley stepped up into the plate in the home half of the 9th, and launched a walk-off game winning home run to right center field to give the tribe the 2-1 win.
The Indians relied on Tristan McKenzie to keep them in the winning column on Friday night, and the young right hander answered the bell. McKenzie had arguably the best outing of his career, showing excellent control throughout his start. Despite getting a no-decision, McKenzie ended with an eye popping final line of 0 earned runs on 1 hit in 7 innings of work, striking out 9 while walking one lone batter.
The Indians and Royals will continue their weekend series on Saturday evening. First pitch is set for 6:10 pm ET at Progressive Field in Cleveland, Ohio. Check out highlights from tonight's game below!