Indians outfielder Michael Brantley hopes this time, things are different. Right now, it feels different, which is the most positive news he’s had in quite some time.
Brantley is attempting, for the third time, to return to the Indians’ lineup and stay in it following offseason shoulder surgery and twice being shut down due to soreness. To date, he’s logged only 11 regular season games and two Cactus League games this season.
Brantley, now on the 60-day disabled list, took batting practice at Progressive Field prior to Tuesday’s game against the Detroit Tigers. The feedback was all positive, a hopeful sign that the third attempt is the last following two anti-inflammatory shots, two opinions on his shoulder, biceps tendonitis and a lost first half to the regular season.