Michael Brantley to undergo season-ending shoulder surgery

Indians outfielder Michael Brantley will undergo season-ending shoulder surgery next week, manager Terry Francona told reporters Saturday. Brantley reportedly suffered a recent setback in his recovery, and surgery was known to be an option.

Brantley has dealt with shoulder issues all season, and has only appeared in 11 games for Cleveland all year. The 29-year old originally underwent surgery in November, and has experienced numerous setbacks in his recovery to this point.

Cleveland was said to be counting on Brantley’s eventual return when planning its trade deadline strategy, and added only one outfielder (Brandon Guyer) before August 1. The Indians had strong interest in Carlos Beltran, and could look to add another impact bat before the August 31 waiver trade deadline.

Cleveland has gotten solid production from rookie Tyler Naquin all season, and still has Rajai Davis, Jose Ramirez, Abraham Almonte and Lonnie Chisenhall as outfield options. Available options include former Astros outfielder Carlos Gomez, who was recently designated for assignment, and Braves outfielder Jeff Francoeur, who cleared trade waivers and can be dealt anywhere before the end of the month.

Brantley, an 8-year major-league veteran, is earning $7.375 million this year and is controlled through the end of the 2018 season via a club option. He is set to earn $8.375 million next season.