CLEVELAND: Following offseason shoulder surgery, Michael Brantley starting the season on the disabled list was a primary concern for the Indians, but one that could be handled if he returned as his usual, Silver Slugger-level self in left field.
That doesn’t appear to be the case. Brantley’s surgically-repaired right shoulder hasn’t responded like he and the club had hoped after playing in 11 games this season, even with off days sprinkled in among his starts. He’s hit just .231 with two doubles. And now, the thing the Indians could least afford in this situation looks to be coming to fruition.