Marlins slugger Stanton takes live hitting as rehab progresses
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Miami Marlins slugger Giancarlo Stanton's recovery from a broken bone in his hand took a positive step when he began hitting Monday.
Stanton, sidelined since suffering a fractured hamate bone in his left hand on June 26, tested the injury by hitting off a machine and live pitching.
Marlins manager Dan Jennings outlined a tentative plan for what he termed Stanton's "hitting progression," which will eventually lead to a simulated game and one or two rehab games. There is no timetable for Stanton's return.
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"I think it has to do with the strength factor in his hands and wrist," Jennings said. "When you're a hitter, and the strength is not there, it's tough to feel comfortable swinging the bat. You can be a little tentative."
Stanton was having a huge season before he was hurt, belting 27 homers to go with 67 RBIs in 74 games. Signed to a $325 million, 13-year deal in the offseason, Stanton already has hit 181 homers in his sixth year with Miami.
(h/t MLB.com)