CLEVELAND _ Michael Brantley has managed to avoid trouble with his troublesome shoulder this season. His ankle has been another story.
Brantley on Wednesday was placed on the 10-day disabled list with a right ankle sprain, the second time this season that injury has forced him from the lineup. The Indians left fielder was also on the disabled list in mid-to-late June with the same injury.
In Tuesday's 4-1 win over the Colorado Rockies, Brantley took a few steps toward center field on a routine fly ball but came up hobbling with a non-contact injury. He sat upright in the grass, hands folded, and waited for trainers to evaluate him. He was down for a few moments and walked off under his own power before receiving some help getting into the dugout.
Indians manager Terry Francona said after the game that Brantley might have thought he had suffered an Achilles tendon injury and didn't want to move. The pain, however, was on the side of his foot, ruling that out.
"I was relieved when he pointed to where it was hurting because I'm not a doctor, but every once in a while I stay at a Holiday Inn Express, so I know a little bit," Francona said. "But it was on the side. When somebody is sitting out there, you are never really relieved, but I knew it wasn't an Achilles."
When Francona met with reporters Wednesday morning, the club was leaning toward taking a day to determine how Brantley's ankle responded to treatment before making a decision. That was later deemed unnecessary, and Brantley was placed on the disabled list prior to the game.
Utility infielder Erik Gonzalez was called up in his place.
Around stints on the DL, Brantley has enjoyed a strong rebound season that has included an All-Star selection. He is hitting .299 with a .358 on-base percentage, nine home runs, 20 doubles, 52 RBIs and 11 stolen bases.
