Edwin Encarncion exits ALDS Game 2 with ankle sprain
This is bad news for Cleveland, but they have a day off on Saturday.
If the Indians are going to win Game 2 of the American League Division Series to go up 2-0 on the Yankees, they’ll have to do it without Edwin Encarnacion. The Indians announced that Encarnacion is dealing with a right ankle sprain.
Cleveland’s designated hitter was removed in the bottom of the first inning after attempting to get back to second base on a catch in the infield. Encarnacion was initially safe, but came off the bag due to rolling his ankle on it, and Didi Gregorius took the opportunity to tag him, while the Yankees challenged the play to have the call reversed.
Encarnacion’s spot came up again in the bottom of the second inning with the bases loaded, and Michael Brantley replaced him. Brantley wasn’t expected to start until Game 3 due to, coincidentally, a late-season ankle injury.
Edwin Encarnacion was on crutches and in a walking boot as he left the Indians clubhouse, and got onto a cart. Had a suitcase and a backpack
— Buster Olney (@Buster_ESPN) October 6, 2017
It’s unknown if Encarnacion will be healthy enough to return to the lineup on Sunday for Game 3, but it’s entirely possible having the rest of this game off and all of Saturday off will allow the slugger time to heal. It all depends on the severity of the ankle sprain, however: Cleveland certainly won’t want to aggravate it further and lose access to Encarnacion’s bat for even more games.