Blue Jays' Encarnacion returns to lineup: 'Happy to be back and happy to feel good'

Toronto Blue Jays first baseman Edwin Encarnacion is notoriously reluctant to speak with reporters, his taciturn nature fueled at least partially by his lack of familiarity with the English language.

Encarnacion, however, couldn't help but speak up Thursday after appearing in his first Grapefruit League game since March 8.

"Happy to be back and happy to feel good," he remarked to John Lott of National Post after going 0-for-1 with a pair of walks in Toronto's 4-1 victory over the Philadelphia Phillies.

Hampered by inflammation in his back for more than two weeks, Encarnacion's spring malady compelled him to develop a new conditioning routine comprised of exercises designed to increase flexibility and strengthen the muscles in his back. He is expected to start at first base Friday when the Blue Jays host the Detroit Tigers at Florida Auto Exchange Stadium.

A two-time All-Star, Encarnacion blasted 34 home runs over 128 games in 2014 and is one of just three qualified hitters - along with Mike Trout and Andrew McCutchen - to record an on-base plus slugging of at least .900 in each of the last three seasons.