Knapp out for season, Hafner out on rehab

Right-handed pitcher Jason Knapp had shoulder surgery and is done for the season.  Director of Player Development Ross Atkins had this so say today in a prepared statement: "As we have conveyed the past several months, we were monitoring Jason's progress and workload to ensure that he would be fully healthy and able to pitch without being limited upon his return to the mound. After increasing his intensity last month in Arizona, he experienced discomfort and was seen by Indian's Head Team Physician Dr. Mark Schickendantz and later received two additional opinions. It was determined that Jason undergo a procedure to stabilize and tighten the anterior aspect of the shoulder, which was performed today in New York by Dr. David Altchek. After 6 weeks of rest and recovery, he will begin his rehabilitation with the goal of returning to competitive pitching next spring training. Jason has approached his work the past year with great determination and persistence - this consistent approach will only enhance his rehabilitation moving forward."

Right-handed pitcher Bryce Stowell has been activated from extended spring training and assigned to Low-A Lake County.  It should be a brief stay as he should make his way up and settle at Double-A Akron or Triple-A Columbus quickly.  Also, Lake County infielder Kyle Smith and Akron infielder Matt Lawson have both retired.

Cleveland Indians designated hitter Travis Hafner will begin a Major League Rehab Assignment tonight with the Double-A Akron Aeros. He was placed on the disabled list May 20 with a right oblique strain and has not played since. He will be in the lineup tonight, and barring any setbacks will likely play all three games of the series which ends on Thursday before being activated on Friday when the Indians return to Progressive Field to play the Pirates.

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