Corey Kluber sets World Series strikeout record

CLEVELAND – Indians pitcher Corey Kluber set a World Series record with eight strikeouts through the first three innings of Game 1.

Kluber kept the Chicago Cubs hitters off balance with a variety of sinkers, cutters and four-seam fastballs – getting five of the eight K’s on called third strikes.

"He's relaxed, calm." said Indians pitching coach Mickey Callaway during a Fox interview in between innings. "That's been reliable for him to get the ball where he wants to."

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The previous mark was seven, held by Bob Gibson, Randy Johnson and Orlando Hernandez.

Those eight strikeouts are already an Indians record for a World Series game.

Kluber was removed in the seventh inning after giving up a leadoff single to Ben Zobrist. He finished with nine strikeouts, no walks, four hits over six innings.

The Indians led 3-0 when he departed to a standing ovation.

Gallery: Scenes from Game 1 of the World Series