Lee (18-2) stays on a roll for Indians

CLEVELAND -- An 18-2 record pitching for any team is impressive.

Cliff Lee’s season has been truly remarkable because he has been practically unbeatable for a team that has been less than mediocre.

The Indians’ left-hander recorded his AL-best 18th victory and won his seventh straight decision as Cleveland beat the Kansas City Royals, 10-3, on Thursday.

Lee, the Cy Young award front-runner, gave up three runs -- two earned -- and six hits in seven innings. He struck out seven and got the Royals to hit into four double plays. Lee leads the AL in wins, winning percentage (.900) and earned-run average (2.43) for a team that’s 59-67 and, until recently, was fighting to get out of last place in the Central Division.

“He’s had a great year,” said Indians center fielder Grady Sizemore, who had a career-high seven RBIs. “It’s not a surprise anymore when he goes out there and pitches like that.”

“It’s remarkable what he’s done,” Indians Manager Eric Wedge said.

Lee hasn’t been basking in his success.

“I’m focused on my next start,” he said. “It’s against Detroit [next Tuesday]. That’s where my focus is.”