Report: Braves C Brian McCann could return next week

Braves catcher Brian McCann could return next week after having shoulder surgery in the offseason. (Mike McGinnis/Getty Images)

The Atlanta Braves could have six-time All-Star catcher Brian McCann back in the lineup as early as next week, reports MLB.com. 

McCann has not played this season due to having reconstructive surgery on his right shoulder last October. He was bothered by the shoulder all last season and hit. 230 with 20 home runs and 67 RBI.

"If I'm a betting man, then I would say he'll be there," Braves manager Fredi Gonzalez said in reference to McCann. "He looks good. The reports I'm hearing from our scouts and Minor League coaches is that his arm is working. Now, it's just a matter of getting some at-bats and getting him some games to see where he's at."

The Braves travel to Cincinnati next week and McCann has been very successful at the Reds ballpark, hitting .333 with 10 home runs in 84 at-bats at the stadium.

"The way I'm throwing is basically the same as before I got hurt," McCann said. "The ball is coming out great. Now, it's just going to be a matter of catching innings and getting up with the speed of the game."