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CINCINNATI — During most Reds video games, it has been straightforward to identify the long-haired man on the highest step of their dugout shouting encouragement. It’s the function second baseman Jonathan India has been restricted to since he went on the injured record July 30 with plantar fasciitis in his left foot.
Now, India is able to get again on the sphere for the ultimate three weeks of the season and assist Cincinnati attempt to make the playoffs. He was activated on Sunday alongside Joey Votto, who was coping with left shoulder discomfort, and Hunter Greene, who was on the COVID IL.
“It was so hard for me to be here every game on the front steps cheering them on because I want to be out there playing,” India said before leaving for a rehab assignment at Triple-A Louisville. “It’s just another part of my journey. I’m ready to come back and show who I am.”
An emotional chief on the sphere and within the clubhouse, India was batting .251/.336/.409 with 14 residence runs and 52 RBIs in 103 video games earlier than his harm.
“It’s a testament to his character and who he is to be that involved and engaged while being hurt. He’s a great presence in our locker room,” Reds outfielder Will Benson said. “To have him back, obviously, is going to be more fuel to the fire. We know he brings a lot to the table with his play, his leadership and his hustle. Those are all staples to who we are as a team.”
India had hoped to be out just for a brief interval and be again by mid-August till a setback occurred whereas testing his foot by operating.
That meant extra rehab time, together with operating on a zero-gravity treadmill on the Reds’ Spring Training advanced in Arizona.
“It definitely sucked at the beginning. I tried pushing and it didn’t work out in my favor,” India said. “It’s just an unlucky injury — something I never thought I would get. I took care of my body so well in the offseason, and the season. I played every game to that point. Some things are out of my hands.”
Although he wasn’t initially in a position to run for some time, India acquired at-bats in dwell batting apply conditions by dealing with coaches Alon Leichman and Matt Tracy for a number of days.
“I’m grateful to the guys who have been throwing good live ABs — Matt Tracy and Alon,” India said. “They’ve geared me up the past month. My swing is there. My timing is there. I’m ready to help the team win.”
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