Tribe's Gutierrez must wear neck brace after surgery

CLEVELAND (AP) -- Cleveland Indians second baseman Ricky Gutierrez, who underwent neck surgery to keep playing, is doing well but must wear a brace until late November, the team said.
Paddy Jarit, the Indians' director of medical services, said Gutierrez would begin physical therapy after the brace comes off. He had surgery Oct. 5 in Fort Lauderdale, Fla.
Jarit said he was optimistic that Gutierrez would resume his career. Any limitation might involve a range of motion that Gutierrez might not even notice, Jarit said.
Gutierrez, 32, was hurt in the first week of the season while diving for a grounder, but didn't reveal what doctors later diagnosed as a career-threatening injury until August. He spent the final 11/2 months on the disabled list.
Other updates
On other injury updates, Jarit said:
Closer Bob Wickman is still scheduled to have "Tommy John" elbow surgery in December. He's expected to miss next season.
Outfielder Matt Lawton, who had shoulder surgery Sept. 17, is "doing incredibly well" and should be throwing by spring training.
Outfielder Alex Escobar "looks very strong" after re-constructive surgery on his left knee in March. He spent months rehabilitating the knee in the weight room.