HOUSTON (SportsRadio 610) - Astros veteran outfielder and designated hitter Michael Brantley returned to the team's training facility in Florida on Sunday morning to continue rehabilitating his surgically repaired right shoulder.
Brantley was with the big league ball club for its first three games of the season against the Chicago White Sox, attending the World Series banner raising and ring ceremony at Minute Maid Park. Now, it's time to get back to the business of having Brantley be healthy again as soon as possible.
The Astros placed Brantley on the 10-day injured list to start the season, but they expect him out for at least three weeks, general manager Dana Brown said.
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Manager Dusty Baker confirmed Sunday morning that Brantley traveled back to Florida and they are monitoring his progress.
Baker reiterated Brown last week, saying Brantley will have a minor league rehab assignment before he returns to the Astros' lineup.
"We'll see how he progresses," Baker said. "I know he's really wanting to get back, but we've got to be smart about it."
Whenever Baker is asked about the expected two-month absence of Jose Altuve, who suffered a broken thumb during the World Baseball Classic, the manager says he's hoping for a miracle. But Baker also points out how critical it is not having Brantley in the lineup.
A fully healthy Astros lineup features Altuve leading off, then Brantley second.
"It's two big bats," Baker said before last Thursday's season-opener. "Yeah, it does loom big."
Brandon Scott is the editor for SportsRadio610.com. Follow him on Twitter @brandonkscott. Reach him directly via email: brandon.scott@audacy.com.
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