CLEVELAND -- The Indians acquired Andrew Miller in a late-July trade two years ago, and the relief ace was overpowering over the final two months and into October. The circumstances are much different right now, but Cleveland is once again hoping to add Miller to the equation for the second-half stretch run.
Prior to Friday's game against the A's, Indians manager Terry Francona noted that Miller -- currently on the 10-day disabled list due to a right knee issue -- came to Progressive Field on Thursday and completed a 31-pitch bullpen session. Francona said the lefty will continue to throw off the mound, but he ruled out activating Miller before the All-Star break.
"I don't even think we'd try," Francona said. "To try to do this right, I think we need to let him throw his bullpens, and then [make sure he's back to full strength]."
At some point during the current homestand, Francona noted that Miller may throw off the regular mound in order to use TrackMan to gather more detailed information about his mechanics, pitch velocity and movement. When Miller is getting close to being ready for games, the Indians will send him out on a Minor League rehab assignment.
Miller, who has not pitched for the Indians since May 25, has a 4.40 ERA with 23 strikeouts against 10 walks in 14 1/3 innings this season.
"The good news is that [Miller] really is making strides," Francona said. "My goodness, if we can get him back in time to get him on a roll, that's the biggest goal."
Other medical updates
• Outfielder Lonnie Chisenhall (10-day DL, left calf strain) is expected to miss "considerable time," according to Francona. The manager noted that the team will have more details on Chisenhall's status after the outfielder's upcoming consultation with team physician Dr. Jason Genin.
• Center fielder Bradley Zimmer (Minor League DL, right shoulder) has moved his rehab to the Indians' complex in Goodyear, Ariz. Zimmer has not resumed baseball activities, but he continues to work through range-of-motion and strengthening exercises.
• Left-hander Tyler Olson (10-day DL, left lat strain) is scheduled to pitch for Triple-A Columbus in a Minor League rehab assignment on Friday and Saturday.
• Righty Evan Marshall (10-day DL, right elbow) has resumed playing light catch. Fellow reliever Nicholas Goody (60-day DL, right elbow) will be re-evaluated within the next few days.