Photo by Nick Camino / Newsradio WTAM 1100
GOODYEAR, Ariz. -- Indians right-hander Danny Salazar will start spring training a couple weeks behind the rest of the current group of pitchers in camp.
Salazar, 28, suffered an injury to his right shoulder in mid-January during his off-season throwing program. The right-hander has already resumed throwing and the Indians say he is progressing well, however the right shoulder rotator cuff inflammation on Salazar will be something the team will continue to monitor.
Salazar will be part of a competition for one of the final two spots in the Indians starting pitching rotation. On Thursday Salazar met with the media as well as Indians president of baseball operations Chris Antonetti and pitching coach Carl Willis.
There was some positive news in the Indians spring medical update as left fielder Michael Brantley is progressing well following a right ankle ligament repair. Brantley has resumed straight ahead running, along with long toss and cage batting practice according to the Indians. The plan is for Brantley to continue a graduated increase in activity over the next couple of weeks.
Along with Brantley, positive injury news also included the progression of Bradley Zimmer, Brandon Guyer and Yandy Diaz. Cody Anderson is currently on a long toss program ten and a half months after having right elbow UCL surgery. The big righty can continue mound activity this Saturday, Feb. 17.
Pitchers and catchers have reported to Tribe camp and position players will join the team for activity starting on Sunday with the first official full squad workout slated for Monday at the Indians Player Development Complex.
- Nick Camino