Aiken ready for a healthy 2017 campaign

GOODYEAR, Ariz. — As Brady Aiken looks ahead to 2017, he’ll do so without lingering questions about his health, a feeling he hasn’t experienced in a couple of seasons.

The past couple of years have been filled with obstacles, but the Indians’ No. 2 prospect (No. 64 overall) not only used the time to rehab, but also to mature and grow as a person and a player.

“The greatest thing about Brady is he’s just one of the guys,” Indians assistant general manager Carter Hawkins said. “He’s gone through so much early in his career, he’s had so much attention on him. He certainly does not see himself as any different than any of his teammates, which is really high praise considering what he’s been through.”

Aiken has been through more than most and it easily could have derailed his career, but in persevering through all the obstacles, the 20-year-old showed the Indians the fortitude that can help him live up to his potential.

But the past is the past and Aiken is focused on the future.

After undergoing Tommy John surgery in March 2015, a couple months before the …

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