PHOENIX — Kelly Johnson began taking batting practice and doing defensive drills this week as the Braves left fielder/third baseman continues his rehab from a strained oblique muscle in his left side.
He’s working out at the teams’ spring-training headquarters in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. There’s no timetable yet for his return, but Johnson is expected to have a minor league injury-rehab assignment before he rejoins the Braves.
Johnson was the Braves’ home-run leader, with six in 81 at-bats, before injuring his left side taking a swing in a May 12 game at Cincinnati. He was placed on the 15-day disabled list immediately after that game.
He’d started 14 of the last 16 games, including 12 in left field and two at third base, before his injury. Todd Cunningham has platooned with Jonny Gomes in left field since Johnson went on the DL.
When Johnson returns, the Braves could opt to keep Cunningham and designate for assignment outfielder Eric Young Jr., who has barely played in recent weeks.
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