Skubal made his second big league start and allowed a leadoff homer for the second time, but settled in to strike out five over 2 1/3 innings. The Tigers’ prized left-handed prospect was pulled after 69 pitches.

Norris (2-1) followed and struck out four while allowing two hits. The 27-year-old left-hander has a 2.77 ERA in five games this season, but reiterated that he prefers to start.

“I came out with two runners on base and Norris picked me up big-time,” Skubal said. “He just kept dealing for the next few innings.”

Cabrera had a sacrifice fly in the first inning and a run-scoring single in the sixth, giving him 1,707 RBIs to tie Adrián Beltré for 21st on the career list. David Ortiz is 20th with 1,768.

First base coach Sandy Alomar Jr. managed the Indians for the 17th time this season with Terry Francona recovering from a medical procedure for a gastrointestinal ailment. The 61-year-old underwent the procedure Friday at Cleveland Clinic.

“I texted Tito and he said it’s been a tough road for him,” Gardenhire said. “This has been a hard year. It’s not easy. That’s about the whole way I can put it.”

Indians RHP Triston McKenzie, who struck out 10 and won his major league debut Saturday, is staying with the team for at least one more start.