India joins Reds' playoff push in return from IL

This story was excerpted from Mark Sheldon’s Reds Beat newsletter. To read the full newsletter, click here. And subscribe to get it regularly in your inbox.

CINCINNATI -- During most Reds games, it's been easy to spot the long-haired guy on the top step of their dugout shouting encouragement. It's the role second baseman Jonathan India has been limited to since he went on the injured list July 30 with plantar fasciitis in his left foot.

Now, India is ready to get back on the field for the final three weeks of the season and help Cincinnati try to make the playoffs. He was activated on Sunday alongside Joey Votto, who was dealing with left shoulder discomfort, and Hunter Greene, who was on the COVID IL.

“It was so hard for me to be here every game on the front steps cheering them on because I want to be out there playing," India said before leaving for a rehab assignment at Triple-A Louisville. "It’s just another part of my journey. I’m ready to come back and show who I am.”

An emotional leader on the field and in the clubhouse, India was batting .251/.336/.409 with 14 home runs and 52 RBIs in 103 games before his injury.

“It’s a testament to his character and who he is to be that involved and engaged while being hurt. He’s a great presence in our locker room," Reds outfielder Will Benson said. "To have him back, obviously, is going to be more fuel to the fire. We know he brings a lot to the table with his play, his leadership and his hustle. Those are all staples to who we are as a team.”

India had hoped to be out only for a short period and be back by mid-August until a setback happened while testing his foot by running.

That meant more rehab time, including running on a zero-gravity treadmill at the Reds' Spring Training complex in Arizona.

“It definitely sucked at the beginning. I tried pushing and it didn’t work out in my favor," India said. "It’s just an unlucky injury -- something I never thought I would get. I took care of my body so well in the offseason, and the season. I played every game to that point. Some things are out of my hands.”

Although he wasn't initially able to run for a while, India got at-bats in live batting practice situations by facing coaches Alon Leichman and Matt Tracy for several days.

“I’m grateful to the guys who have been throwing good live ABs -- Matt Tracy and Alon," India said. "They’ve geared me up the past month. My swing is there. My timing is there. I’m ready to help the team win.”