Indians' Brantley has shoulder surgery, out for 4 months

CLEVELAND (AP) The Indians are optimistic outfielder Michael Brantley will be ready for baseball activities when spring training begins.

Brantley, who played in only 11 games this season, had surgery on his right shoulder Monday to address chronic biceps tendinitis. He's expected to begin his normal offseason workout program in mid-to-late November.

''That's partly the reason we wanted to try to do it now,'' Indians manager Terry Francona said Tuesday. ''He'll need a good spring training. He's got 39 at-bats this year. Having him not have to be behind in spring will be really big. I think there's a real chance that will happen.''

Indians head athletic trainer James Quinlan said surgeons cut the biceps tendon and anchored it to a different part of the shoulder during Monday's 45-minute procedure in Dallas.

Brantley had surgery in November after suffering a torn labrum. The Indians say the labrum is intact and the remainder of the shoulder joint looked good.

Brantley began the season on the disabled list and was activated in late April, but returned to the DL on May 10. He attempted to come back several times, but the shoulder still bothered him when he tried to hit.

''He's got a lot on his plate and he's had lot,'' Francona said. ''For a guy who hasn't played, he's pretty tired. He's given a lot to try to come back. He's going to have to do that again. The good news is if anybody's willing, he's the guy.''