Masterson throws strikes in loss to LA

GOODYEAR, Ariz.: As per manager Manny Acta's orders, Justin Masterson threw strikes, but the Indians lost 11-2 to the Dodgers Monday night at Goodyear Ballpark.

Masterson was mostly effective in his 5 2/3 innings, giving up four hits and one walk while striking out six. His undoing was allowing a two-run homer to Andre Ethier in the fourth inning.

He also gave up an unearned run in the fifth because of his own throwing error and was charged with a fourth run in the sixth, when Rafael Perez relieved him and gave up an RBI single.

Masterson, the No. 3 pitcher in the rotation, will make one more spring start before the regular season begins April 5.

Tribe relievers were definitely not on their game. Perez gave up five hits and one run in 1 1/3 inning, and Tony Sipp allowed Los Angeles to bat around in the eighth, giving up three runs and a walk. He also hit a batter and left the bases loaded.

Closer Chris Perez started the ninth and gave up three runs, walking three and allowing a two-run double in one-third of an inning. Saul Rivera replaced him and finished the inning with two ground ball outs.

The Indians' offense was relatively dormant. Travis Hafner singled home a run and doubled to the fence in right on a drive that probably should have been caught. Asdrubal Cabrera contributed two hits, including a bloop double, and Luis Valbuena doubled and singled.