CLEVELAND -- Last weekend, Carlos Carrasco's teammates showed him support as he went public with his leukemia diagnosis.
On Monday, the Cleveland Indians starting pitcher returned the favor.
As he arrived at Monday night's Home Run Derby at Progressive Park, the 32-year-old right-hander did so wearing a special customized jersey to support his four Indians teammates appearing in the Midsummer Classic. Instead of his uniform including the traditional name and number, Carrasco's sleeveless top included the last names of Cleveland teammates Brad Hand, Francisco Lindor, Carlos Santana and Shane Bieber -- each of whom have been selected to represent the Indians at this year's All-Star Game.
Just prior to Santana taking the plate for the Home Run Derby, Carrasco was shown on the big screen at Progressive Field in his special top. The sight of Carrasco drew a raucous ovation from the fans in attendance at the derby, many of whom had taken to social media to show support for him following his revelation over the weekend.
Speaking to Frank Camilo of CDN 37 in the Dominican Republic, Carrasco, who the Indians placed on the 10-day injured list in June due to an unspecified blood condition, revealed that condition was leukemia. Carrasco, however, also said that he currently has the disease under control and plans to return to the Indians at some point during the 2019 season.
On Sunday, the Indians released a health update on Carrasco, which revealed he has been cleared for strength and conditioning programs, as well as throwing activity. Now in his 10th season with the Tribe, Carrasco amassed a 4-6 record, 4.98 ERA and 79 strikeouts in 12 starts before his diagnosis.