Kikuchi allowed one run on three hits with 10 strikeouts and one walk in a no-decision against the Indians on Friday.
The extra rest Kikuchi received by being used purely as an opener in his last start April 20, in which he threw only one inning, seemed to be helpful, as the southpaw turned in the best performance of his young MLB career. He is 1-1 with a 3.98 ERA, 1.16 WHIP and 35 strikeouts in 40.2 innings this season. His next scheduled start is on the road Wednesday against the Yankees.