Josh Naylor had two hits and two RBI, continuing his comeback from a devastating leg injury and helping the Cleveland Guardians complete a series sweep of the Chicago White Sox with a 6-3 victory on Thursday.
Cleveland took both games of a doubleheader Wednesday against Chicago, which has lost four straight.
Naylor hit an RBI single in the fifth and a run-scoring double in the seventh. He was activated Friday after suffering multiple fractures in his right leg during an outfield collision last June. He had surgery and completed a lengthy rehab process that included a stint in the minors to begin this season.
Naylor pumped his fists and pointed toward Cleveland’s dugout following both hits.
“It’s awesome, but it’s about more than me,” he said. “It’s about the team and we did a good job this series.”
Franmil Reyes, who hit his first home run of the season, is happy to see Naylor back on the field.
“He’s my best friend and it’s great to see him there, playing with that big smile and cheering for the team, no matter how he’s doing,” Reyes said. “I remember when he came back he was always like you’ve got this, it’s going to be OK. So, I’m glad to be his teammate every time.”
Cleveland right-hander Zach Plesac (1-1) allowed two runs, one earned, and seven hits in 6 2/3 innings. Emmanuel Clase pitched the ninth for his second save.
Jose Ramirez had 2 hits and drove in a run.