The top story in Indians camp this spring, left fielder Michael Brantley has progressed to front toss as he rehabs from offseason shoulder surgery. It’s the first time he’s hit live baseballs and the last progression before getting into the batting cage, a major step in his road back to the lineup.
To date, the speed at which Brantley has graduated from milestone to milestone has given the Indians some good news.
“There’s significant progression to go. The good news is he’s doing great,” Indians manager Terry Francona told reporters in Goodyear, Ariz. on Wednesday. “The hitting guys come back and say, 'He looks great.' You know how diligent he is on what he's doing. He's doing terrific.”
Brantley’s original time table of 5-6 months put his return around the beginning of May, roughly a month into the regular season. It’s appearing possible Brantley could return before then, but the team is remaining cautious in moving up his return date.
“I don't think it's going to be that long, but I think in fairness to him, you start putting a day out there and if he's a week late—he’s doing everything he can to be ready,” Francona said. “That’s good enough for us. We’ve actually told him we don't want him coming back until he's ready.”
Diamond notes
The Indians are stretching out relief pitcher Zach McAllister, in part as an insurance policy this spring and in part because the team feels it better prepares him to pitch.
The club plans to get McAllister to the three-inning mark around the middle of camp. But for his role on the team, he’ll remain in the bullpen barring several unforeseen circumstances.
The club also plans to ease recently signed outfielder Will Venable (non-roster with spring invitation) and third baseman Juan Uribe (one-year, $4 million deal plus incentives) into camp and spring games. Their participating could be limited for a few days.