Clevinger expected to return in 6-8 weeks after knee surgery

Cleveland Indians right-hander Mike Clevinger will undergo surgery Friday on his left knee, the team announced.

Clevinger suffered a partial tear of the medial meniscus in his left knee while training this week and has been on crutches since Thursday, sources told The Athletic's Zack Meisel.

The right-hander is expected to return to major-league activity in six-to-eight weeks, Meisel adds.

Cleveland will establish a timetable for the pitcher's return following the procedure.

The 29-year-old hurler has pitched well for the Indians during the last three seasons, amassing a 37-16 record with a 2.88 ERA and 3.27 FIP in 440 innings as a starter.

Clevinger is expected to miss the start of the season, according to USA TODAY's Bob Nightengale.

The Indians will enter the campaign with Shane Bieber and Carlos Carrasco anchoring their rotation while Aaron Civale, Adam Plutko, Zach Plesac, and others compete for spots during spring training.