Indians slugger Encarnacion could play in Game 5 of ALDS

CLEVELAND (AP) — Indians slugger Edwin Encarnacion might be back in Cleveland’s lineup for Game 5 of the AL Division Series against the Yankees.

Encarnacion sprained his right ankle in Game 2 and missed both ALDS games in New York. Indians manager Terry Francona said “I think so” when asked if Encarnacion will be available for Wednesday night’s game against the Yankees, who have come back from 2-0 to tie the series.

Cleveland’s cleanup hitter has responded well to treatment and tested his ankle by jogging in the outfield Tuesday. He later faced Ryan Merritt in a simulated game, singled and tipped his cap after running to first.

Encarnacion jammed his ankle while scrambling to get back to second base on Friday. At the time, it appeared his series — and maybe his season — were over, but Cleveland’s cleanup hitter could be back for the decisive series finale.

Francona said he has four possible lineups for Wednesday’s game.

Encarnacion hit 38 homers and drove in 107 runs during the regular season.

———

More AP baseball: https://apnews.com/tag/MLBbaseball