Indians confirm Salazar will be on World Series roster
The Cleveland Indians' pitching staff will get a big boost for the World Series.
Right-hander Danny Salazar, who's been sidelined with a forearm strain since early September, will be part of Cleveland's roster against the Chicago Cubs, manager Terry Francona said Monday, via Daryl Van Schouwen of the Chicago Sun-Times.
Cody Anderson, who has not appeared in the playoffs despite being active for the first two rounds, will be dropped from Cleveland's roster to make room.
It's still unclear whether Salazar will be used as a starter or reliever, and Francona offered little clarity in calling the 26-year-old a "wild card," according to Paul Hoynes of Cleveland.com. "We can use him as we like."
"I don't know if I'm a starter or reliever, but I'm ready," Salazar said, according to Jayson Stark of ESPN.
The 26-year-old will, however, have his workload carefully monitored. Pitching coach Mickey Callaway told Jordan Bastian of MLB.com that Salazar's limit will be in the area of 65-70 pitches.
Though Salazar has yet to pitch in the playoffs, he threw a three-inning simulated game at Progressive Field on Sunday and hit between 95 and 97 mph, telling reporters afterward that he felt "really strong." Salazar also threw a simulated game in Toronto during the ALCS.
In 25 starts for the Indians this season, Salazar posted a 3.87 ERA, 1.34 WHIP, and 161 strikeouts before injuring his forearm on Sept. 9.