Skip to content

Encarnacion close to making spring debut

Steve Russell / Toronto Star / Getty

The Toronto Blue Jays may be able to feature their projected Opening Day lineup for the first time this spring before the end of the week.

Manager John Gibbons told reporters Thursday that Edwin Encarnacion has been taking batting practice and is set to make his spring debut "in the next couple of days."

The 33-year-old slugger has been sidelined with numerous ailments, missing time in early March after having a tooth removed, and was since slowed with an oblique issue.

Troy Tulowitzki is also expected to return to the lineup sometime this week after exiting Wednesday's game when he was hit in the right hand by a pitch. The All-Star shortstop was diagnosed with bruised knuckles and is listed as day-to-day.

Gibbons said Tulowitzki is scheduled to take some swings ahead of Friday's game and if he feels good, there's a chance he could play that afternoon.

Daily Newsletter

Get the latest trending sports news daily in your inbox