Lewis was originally drafted by the Anaheim Angels in the 33rd round (989th overall) of the 2001 Major League Baseball draft, but chose not to sign.[1] He was later drafted by the Cleveland Indians in the third round (77th overall) of the 2004 Major League Baseball draft.[2][3]
After being drafted by Cleveland, Lewis played in Minor League Baseball as a member of the Mahoning Valley Scrappers, Kinston Indians, Akron Aeros, Buffalo Bisons, and Columbus Clippers. During the 2006 season, Lewis posted a 1.48 ERA, good enough to win the Minor League Baseball ERA title.[4]
On September 7, 2008, Lewis was recalled from Double-A Akron as a replacement starter for Anthony Reyes.[5] He made his first major league start against the Baltimore Orioles on September 10. In the game, he threw eight shutout innings, one shy of a complete game, allowing only three hits and no walks while striking out three batters.[6][7] Lewis continued his dominance in his next start on September 15, throwing six shutout innings against the Minnesota Twins, running his scoreless innings streak to 14 to start his career.[8] In total, Lewis started four games for the Tribe, going 4–0 with a 2.63 ERA.[9] For his efforts, Lewis earned the American League Rookie of the Month Award for September 2008.[10][11]
Lewis was slated to be a member of the Indians' starting rotation for the 2009 season,[12] but was placed on the 15-day disabled list on April 11 with a left forearm strain.[13] He was later transferred to the 60-day disabled list.[14] Lewis was activated from the DL on August 17 and optioned to Triple-A Columbus.[15] He was then outrighted off the major league roster on October 30.[16]
Lewis began the 2010 regular season with Triple-A Columbus.[17] He was released on May 14, 2010.[18]
