Indians Thump White Sox 11-2

On Thursday night, Kosuke Fukudome wasted little time in showing what he is capable of doing for the Tribe. Two pitches into the first inning, he launched a pitch into the right-field seats for a home run that set the tone for an explosive 11-2 romp over the White Sox at Progressive Field.

"Man, he has given us so much stability," Indians manager Manny Acta said. "It's been overlooked."

Fukudome ignited the Indians' offense, but All-Star shortstop Asdrubal Cabrera did all he could to steal the spotlight. Cabrera launched his 25th homer of the year, setting a single-season franchise record for a shortstop, and ended the night with five RBIs to help Cleveland (77-78) keep its hold on second place in the American League Central.

Both Fukudome and Cabrera combined to lead an overwhelming offensive onslaught that was more than sufficient in supporting another strong outing from Jeanmar Gomez. The young right-hander cruised to his fifth straight win with six solid innings, continuing to state his case for the 2012 rotation.

It all began with Fukudome.

After White Sox starter Philip Humber offered Fukudome a 1-0 hitter's count, the veteran outfielder took advantage by drilling the next pitch out to lead off the first frame. Rookie second baseman Jason Kipnis followed suit, belting a pitch from Humber out to straightaway center field to give the Tribe a swift 2-0 advantage.

Click here to read more of this story.