Positive News for Astros' Outfielder

 

Finally some positive news regarding Michael Brantley's return.

Astros' manager Dusty Baker said that Brantley will start swinging a bat today, the first time he'll have done so since landing on the injured list, on June 27th.  This is definitely good news to hear, especially after Baker said over the weekend that Brantley's shoulder had been "slow to respond", and with the thirty-five year old's history of shoulder injuries, that was worrying news. 

Dusty Baker on @SportsTalk790 on Michael Brantley: “Michael’s improving. He’s supposed to start swinging today. It’ll be his first day swinging. Hopefully, we’ll have Michael back after the All-Star break too.” Astros are expecting Yordan Alvarez back then as well.

— Mark Berman (@MarkBermanFox26) July 12, 2022

On the season, Brantley is hitting .288 with five home runs and 26 RBIs. With Alvarez down as well, and Pena missing the last couple of games, the Astros' are desperate for some healthy players right about now. 

It's looking like they won't get two of those best players back until after the All-Star Break.

The Astros' are still a ridiculous 56-29 on the season, holding a comfortable 12-game lead over the Mariners for first place in the AL West. 

Photo Credit:  Thomas B. Shea-USA TODAY Sports