Those who have Brian McCann on their fantasy baseball teams–or those who just like the Braves and want them to have their veteran backstop back in action–will be pleased to note that the 29-year-old could be starting a minor league rehab stint soon. McCann had surgery on his torn right labrum back in October and has spent the subsequent time period recovering. A recent wrist injury created possible additional complications, but the early reports are that this is a minor concern and shouldn’t affect the original timetable for a May 1 return too much.
Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports
McCann, a .279/.351/.475 hitter in eight seasons with the Braves, has proven himself a valuable commodity in Atlanta by contributing 26.6 career WAR per FanGraphs, but his time with the club may be limited nonetheless after struggling with injuries of late and slumping to a .698 OPS last season. Considering the emergence of the surprising Evan Gattis and the fact that McCann (who is earning $12 million in 2013) is in the final year of his contract, it’s very possible he and the organization could be parting ways either via trade this summer or through the free agency process at season’s end.
In any case, both sides benefit from the player at full health, so getting him back on the field should be a definite lift, and even a team that starts off 12-1 needs all the good fortune it can get.
Can’t get enough of Spencer? Check out his work at StanGraphs and follow him on Twitter at @shendricks221.