Cleveland Indians May Get Michael Brantley Back Sooner Than Expected

When Michael Brantley was placed on the disabled list in May, the thought was the slugging outfielder would miss significant time, possibly even the rest of the season.

Two months later, Brantley is inching closer to a return to the majors.

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Paul Hoynes of Cleveland.com wrote that Brantley is beginning a rehab assignment, which is generally the last step taken before a player returns from injury. If all goes well, Brantley could be “back in the Indians’ lineup before the end of July.”

Brantley began his rehab assignment Monday, July 11, playing in five innings of Short Season Mahoning Valley. The lefty went 1-2 with a walk in his debut and is scheduled to play at Class-A Lake County tonight. Manager Terry Francona said if Brantley gets through the first few games unscathed, he will then start playing in back-to-back games to increase his durability before returning to the big leagues, according to Hoynes.

If Brantley can successfully complete his rehab assignment and make it back to the big leagues before the end of the month, he could provide a big boost to the lineup without Cleveland having to give up big prospects for another bat.

Even if Brantley returns in July, expect Francona to ease him into the lineup. The Indians have the depth to give Brantley a few days off every now and then in an effort to keep him fresh.  The Tribe have certainly played well in Brantley’s absence, but his addition to lineup would make the team that much more dangerous in the end of the regular season and the postseason.

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In a short 11 game stint with the Cleveland Indians earlier this season, Brantley batted .239 with no home runs and seven RBI. Last season, he posted a .310/.379/.480 slash with 45 doubles, 15 home runs and 84 RBI.