Michael Brantley played in just 11 games last season and is making his way back from right shoulder surgery.

"He's had to fight that thought that this injury can win," Jason Kipnis said of his Cleveland Indians' teammate.

Brantley finished third in American League MVP voting in 2014. He has not been cleared to swing at pitches, and there is no timeline on when he will be ready to try to go 100 percent.

"I learned a lot about myself," Brantley said. "You've got to be mentally tough. You're going to have good days and bad days, but just stick to the course, stick to the plan, don't try to do too much too early, and it will all come together in the end."

He said he believes the worst is behind him, but that doesn't mean Brantley isn't aware of his limitations.

"I wouldn't be standing here in front of you if we didn't have a good game plan going forward," he said. "I'm very excited. I know I said it last year. I'm stronger than I was last year. A lot of things are looking positive. It's a week-to-week basis, but things are going on the right foot so far."