CLEVELAND -- There has been little for outfielder Michael Brantley to be happy about for much of the season, but prior to the series opener with the Tigers, the Tribe gave him a reason to get excited.
On Monday, manager Terry Francona said that Brantley will go through "a normal day" prior to Tuesday's tilt. This means that for the first time since May, when he went on the DL with an injured right shoulder, Brantley will take batting practice at Progressive Field.
"He's genuinely excited about where he is at," said Francona. "I'm kind of looking forward to seeing this."
Prior to Sunday's lopsided loss to Toronto, Brantley was transferred to the 60-day DL after being on the 15-day DL since May 14. He is eligible to be activated on Saturday but still has plenty of hurdles to clear, including a possible rehab stint.
Brantley started the season on the DL before making his season debut in late April. He played just 11 games before experiencing lingering discomfort in the shoulder and going back on the shelf.
"I think for a while he was cautiously optimistic, which I get," Francona said. "But I think right now he feels pretty good. Just the look on his face, it's good to see him feel like that."