As we approach the middle of March, Russell Branyan is still not ready to play:
Russell Branyan wouldn't say he had a setback in his rehabilitation of a herniated disc in his back this spring. He did say his rehabilitation may have "plateaued."
The Indians knew that there was a chance that Branyan wouldn't contribute this season. After all, if it wasn't for Branyan's back injury, he'd have signed a 3-year contract with someone rather than a make-good major-league deal. If Branyan's back is still on that plateau (and it's looking more likely with each passing day), that will mean the Brantley-LaPorta configuration becomes more likely.
Carlos Carrasco, who got a taste of the majors after coming over from Philadelphia, still hasn't had any success against major-league hitters. He allowed six hits and three runs in three innings in yesterday's game against the Rangers, and to me it clinches him going to Columbus.
Today's Game:
Cleveland at San Diego, 4:00 PM (STO)