Indians DH Hafner to begin hitting program

Jan 6, 2009 - 9:43 PM CLEVELAND (Ticker) -- Cleveland Indians designated hitter Travis Hafner has been cleared by Dr. James Andrews to begin a hitting program in mid-January.

Andrews performed arthroscopic surgery on Hafner's right shoulder joint in Birmingham, Alabama on October 14, and the veteran player recently visited with Andrews for his 12-week follow-up examination.

The Indians expect that the 31-year-old Hafner will be ready for the start of next season.

Hafner first started having problems with the shoulder in spring training last year and eventually went on the disabled list May 30.

He did not return to the Indians until September 9 and, although he did not report it, continued to have discomfort down the stretch.

Hafner, who batted .197 with five home runs and 24 RBI in 57 games last season, is due to make $49 million over the next four years, with a $13 million option or a $2.75 million buyout for 2013.