Ryan Braun misses 2nd consecutive game with back stiffness

MILWAUKEE -- Milwaukee Brewers outfielder Ryan Braun missed his second consecutive game against the Chicago Cubs on Thursday because of back stiffness.

Manager Craig Counsell said that Braun is getting multiple treatments per day.

"We hope we'll have him back this weekend," Counsell said.

Counsell has said the 32-year-old slugger might need periodic days off to rest.

Braun, who underwent back surgery on Oct. 8, also missed the last two games of the series with the San Diego Padres last week because of a sore right wrist. Counsell said that Braun's wrist was fine.

Braun entered the day fourth in the National League in batting at .364 and also has seven home runs and 28 RBI this season.