Cleveland Indians: Lonnie Chisenhall has productive rehab game in Akron

Lonnie Chisenhall played in a rehab game Sunday afternoon in Akron, beginning the process to get him back on the field with the Cleveland Indians.

The Cleveland Indians are on a nice three-game winning streak since Jay Bruce has joined the starting lineup, but there is even more help on the way.

Lonnie Chisenhall made a rehab start in Akron on Sunday, his first game action since leaving the July 9 game against the Detroit Tigers with a calf injury.

Chisenhall spoke with the media after the game in which he went 1-3 and came around to score.

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The most important thing from this game is that Chisenhall’s calf felt fine, and the way he talked about makes it seem like he feels fine at the plate. The next test is getting some action in the field.

Akron is out of town this week so Chisenhall will have to continue his rehab with another team, but the level he plays at doesn’t matter. All that matters is whether he can get through an entire game with a clean bill of health.

Chisenhall also explains how his wife is having their child next week, so a likely timetable for his return is the final week of August after his paternity leave.

This actually lines up well, as he can get some games in and have a few days to rest and spend time with family before coming back for the final month of the season.

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The veteran has been one of the team’s best hitters in limited action this season, and his presence will only help this lineup that has struggled to score runs on a consistent basis all season.