Bourn runs bases, begins rehab stint

CLEVELAND -- The Indians have consistently been vague when it comes to Michael Bourn's return to games. Tribe manager Terry Francona stayed true to that approach before Monday's 7-1 win over the Reds at Progressive Field.

"He's doing really good," Francona said following Bourn's pregame workout, which included running the bases. "We will sit with him and most likely start to map out a little bit of a playing schedule. And it will be a rough schedule, because we're always going to go off how he plays."

Clarity arrived after Cleveland's win, when it was announced that Bourn will begin a Minor League rehab assignment with Double-A Akron on Tuesday.

Sitting at his locker following Monday's pregame workout, Bourn noted that he has run the bases three times. That includes one session on the artificial surface Quicken Loans Arena (across the street from Progressive Field) for Bourn, who has been on the 15-day disabled list since July 6. The center fielder has maintained a throwing program and has been hitting on the field.

"I just got through running [the bases] and felt good again today," Bourn said. "I didn't have any setbacks or anything, so I'm going to try to keep moving forward."

Through 66 games, Bourn has hit .267 with three homers, nine doubles, seven triples, seven stolen bases, 21 RBIs and 37 runs scored. This marks the third setback this season involving Bourn's left hamstring, which was surgically repaired (in a different area than the current injury) in October.

"The biggest thing is when he's ready to hit full speed," Francona said, "because he doesn't have to play every day when he gets back. [Outfielder Michael] Brantley will go over there [to center] in a minute, but I think it is important to know that [Bourn] can get to that last gear."