Braves’ Simmons (oblique) increases activities a bit
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. — After missing most of Thursday’s first full-squad workout with a strained oblique muscle in his left side, Braves shortstop Andrelton Simmons eased into limited activities Friday by doing some throwing and taking some light swings.
The injury is considered a minor strain, but the Braves plan to be cautious with Simmons since it’s so early in spring training and because of his history of downplaying injuries. The two-time Gold Glove winner has tried to play through some injuries, which became lingering issues as a result.
“We didn’t want him to throw across the (infield Friday),” Braves manager Fredi Gonzalez said. “He was cleared to do that, but it was cold and our coaches, Terry (Pendleton) and Carlos (Tosca), took the initiative and said it’s cold, it’s windy. He did play catch, he warmed up, but we didn’t want him to throw across the diamond yet.
“He took some extra ground balls while we took batting practice, and he was going to take some dry swings in the cages, or swings off the tees. I don’t know what he did there.”
Simmons also stood at the plate with a bat and “tracked” pitches during live batting practice, but didn’t swing at any, per instructions. He could be cleared for full activities within a few days if his side continues to improve, but the Braves don’t want him to rush his recovery.
“It’s Feb. 27,” Gonzalez said. “With him, if he tells Bubba (head trainer Jeff Porter) he’s ready we’ll give him an extra two days, just because of the history we’ve had with him.”
