Report: Brantley could miss significant time in 2017

A lingering shoulder injury that cost Michael Brantley most of this season could sideline him in 2017 as well.

The Cleveland Indians outfielder underwent season-ending surgery last month and was projected to be ready next spring, but sources told Jon Heyman of Today's Knuckleball that Brantley's injury is quite serious and could force him to miss significant time next season.

Brantley underwent initial surgery last November to repair a torn labrum and returned for 11 games this season before he was shut down with reoccurring pain. Heyman notes that surgeons had to re-anchor the muscle to the bone during Brantley's most recent surgery.

The 29-year-old emerged as one of the major's top outfielders in recent years, hitting .316/.379/.487 with 35 home runs and 92 doubles over 304 games since 2014. He's under contract through the 2017 season, with an $11-million team option for 2018.

Despite the loss of Brantley, the Indians claimed the American League Central division earlier this week.