When Indians outfielder Michael Brantley had offseason surgery to repair a torn labrum in his shoulder, many Cleveland fans feared the worst, understanding Cleveland's already fragile lineup may be without its best hitter for the start of the season.
It appears those fears are proving justified as the Cleveland Plain Dealer reported Saturday that Brantley still hasn't been cleared to hit and has no timetable to return at this time.
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"In the off-season people know I love to hit,'' Brantley said. ''I hit a lot. It's just been a change in my timetable. When I get to start swinging the bat (again), I have a great routine I'm going to go through and I'll be ready to go.''
Spring training starts Wednesday for Cleveland as pitchers and catchers report first. Brantley will miss most of spring training, and there are growing fears he might not be ready to return until late-April, early-May.
Cleveland, which ranked 23rd in batting last year and didn't do much to improve its lineup, will be in real trouble as Brantley misses significant time.
What's worse, the once-mediocre American League Central is greatly improved and could feature four playoff-contending teams. The Indians need to find runs in different ways so they don't fall too far behind.