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Cleveland Indians second baseman Jason Kipnis has now missed five consecutive games due to an issue with his left elbow. But Kipnis was able to participate in batting practice yesterday, and he told reporters -- including Dennis Manoloff of The Plain Dealer -- that he hopes to return today for the Indians' series opener against the Houston Astros.
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Kipnis completed a full batting practice session yesterday prior to Cleveland's matchup against the Boston Red Sox. It was a productive event, as the second baseman was able to swing without restrictions.
Still, there was some soreness experienced -- which didn't seem to surprise Kipnis -- and he stopped short of declaring himself ready to return for today's game. Instead, he said he felt at the time that he was good enough to play, but admitted that his status will be determined by how his elbow responds this morning.
Kipnis experienced discomfort in his right elbow during spring training. He started the season on the active roster, but the injury flared up again. While that has since subsided, his left elbow has been giving him issues, sidelining him for the past several days.