Closer Chris Perez leaves team to be with expectant wife

CLEVELAND, Ohio — Indians closer Chris Perez was unavailable for Friday night's game against the Royals because he flew home to Tampa, Fla., to be with his expectant wife.

Perez left the club early Friday when his wife, Melanie, went into labor with the couple's first child. It is not known when Perez will return.

Perez owns a 0.57 ERA since June 28, having allowed two earned runs in 31 innings. The ERA in that span entering Friday was lowest among all major-league relievers (minimum 18 innings).

Perez has 21 saves this season. The remaining pitchers on the active roster have combined for two -- one each for Frank Herrmann and Tony Sipp.

After Perez, the Tribe pitcher with the most success as a major-league closer is Jensen Lewis, who has 14 career saves.



(cleveland.com)