Salazar to pitch sim game, could start in World Series

After their timely pitching helped guide them to their first World Series appearance since 1997, the Cleveland Indians might be getting a substantial boost to their starting rotation.

Manager Terry Francona said Friday that starter Danny Salazar, who has yet to pitch in the postseason due to a right flexor strain, will pitch a simulated game this weekend and could be in the rotation for the World Series, according to Jordan Bastian of MLB.com.

"I think he's ready to pitch," Francona said.

Salazar previously pitched a simulated game on Oct. 16, but was ultimately left off the ALCS roster. His last start came Sept. 9, when he went just four innings against the Minnesota Twins.

With Salazar and fellow starter Carlos Carrasco out, the Indians have relied primarily on staff ace Corey Kluber. In three postseason starts, he's posted a 0.98 ERA and 20 strikeouts, while limiting hitters to a .197 batting average.

Cleveland has won seven of its eight postseason games, and will face the winner of the NLCS between the Chicago Cubs and the Los Angeles Dodgers.