BALTIMORE -- The Indians bet on Michael Brantley in the offseason, exercising a $12 million team option for the left fielder despite persistent injury problems. As the end of April nears, Brantley is making Cleveland look smart.
Hitting cleanup in the Tribe's 7-3 win over the Orioles at Oriole Park at Camden Yards on Sunday, Brantley went 2-for-5 with an RBI single, continuing a string of hot hitting for the two-time All-Star who is coming off right ankle surgery last October.
"He's such a pro. He gives himself a chance," Indians manager Terry Francona said.