The Cleveland Indians assume that Designated Hitter Edwin Encarnacion can play the New York Yankees in Game 5 of the American League Division Series.Since his ankle injury in Match 2, Encarnacion has not been available.
Encarnacion was unlucky in game 2 in the course of a double lay and suffered a ligament injury in the ankle joint.
However, he told ESPN after the training on Tuesday:”I feel very good.I walked, beat, and did everything we considered necessary to evaluate whether I could play on Wednesday,” and he made it clear:”Being in the lineup is what we all want.Whatever I want.Wednesday I come in early, get treated and then do everything I’ve done today to be ready for the game.”
Indians manager Terry Francona, meanwhile, was confident even before the workout:”I think he’ll be okay.”
Encarnacion also admitted that game 5 influenced the decision about its status, since it was an elimination game:”Yes.It would be different if we knew we had another chance.But there’s no tomorrow and I have to do my utmost to be in the lineup, because I know I can help this team win.”
Encarnacion had signed a $60 million three-year contract before the season, beating 258 with 38 home runs and 107 RBI in its first season.In his absence Michael Brantley acted as DH and was 1-11 and not a worthy substitute.
This article was published without prior view by the Major League Baseball.