Indians OF Brantley says opening day 'target' after surgery

Updated Mar. 4, 2020 2:18 p.m. ET

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CLEVELAND (AP) Indians outfielder Michael Brantley is targeting opening day to return from offseason shoulder surgery.

Brantley had an operation to repair a small tear on his non-throwing shoulder in November. The timetable on his return is 5 to 6 months, putting the start of his season in jeopardy. But although it's probable he won't be ready for the April 4 opener against Boston, Brantley said Thursday night that he's not putting a date on his return.

Brantley injured his shoulder trying to make a diving catch in Minnesota on Sept. 22. He received a cortisone shot and tried to play as the Indians hung around in the AL wild-card chase, but was eventually shut down.

Brantley has been running and throwing during his recovery. His next step is swinging a bat.

The 28-year-old battled injuries throughout last season, but still batted .310 with 15 homers and 84 RBIs in 137 games.

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