McCann Expects To Be ‘Completely Healthy’ In 2013

ATLANTA (AP) – Brian McCann’s agent says the Braves catcher expects to be “completely healthy” for the 2013 season following surgery on his right shoulder.

McCann’s rehabilitation could last six months, so his status for the opening month of next season is uncertain. The Braves, meanwhile, must decide this month on their $12 million option on McCann for 2013.

Tuesday’s surgery by Dr. Xavier Duralde repaired McCann’s torn labrum. The Braves say the tear was larger than expected.

McCann’s agent, B.B. Abbott, told The Associated Press on Wednesday the six-time All-Star is “extremely encouraged” that Duralde’s report calls for a complete recovery.

McCann is expected to return to light baseball activities in about four months. The full clearance could come two months later in April, the season’s opening month.