CLEVELAND (AP) – Indians manager Terry Francona is downplaying closer Chris Perez’s choice not to speak with local reporters.
Perez ducked the media following Monday’s night’s 4-2 loss to Detroit after he gave up four runs in the ninth inning. Francona said “in a perfect world” his players would speak following games, but he wasn’t concerned about Perez’s media blackout being a distraction to the Indians.
Francona said Perez’s decision not to talk is a “personal choice, but I think we try to foster an environment where guys are accountable.”
A two-time All-Star, Perez was arrested earlier this season on misdemeanor drug charges. Approached before Tuesday’s game, Perez said: “I’m not talking the rest of the year. Quit asking.”
Francona said Perez did stop by his office after Monday’s loss and said, “I just blew the game.”
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