Cleveland Indians: A potential Michael Brantley return this weekend

The Cleveland Indians may be getting Michael Brantley back for a game this weekend, although his status for the playoffs remains unknown.

The Cleveland Indians already have a stacked outfield, and the front office may have to consider one more name when making the postseason roster.

Michael Brantley, who hasn’t played in over six weeks, may finally be returning from his ankle injury after the likelihood of such an event seemed low just a few days ago.

He may have been progressing just fine all along, but the confusing injury updates from the team never offer much clarity. It takes pictures like the one below to receive real updates.

First came the picture, and then the questions. An article on Indians.com by William Kosileski features quotes from Terry Francona, who seems to think Brantley could get in a game this weekend.

"Indians manager Terry Francona said on Wednesday that the club is targeting the weekend as a potential return for Brantley. Francona noted the team wants to give Brantley the opportunity to play in a regular-season game before the Indians set their 25-man roster for the American League Division Series presented by Doosan, which begins on Oct. 5.. “We’re trying to give him every chance possible so we can make a good decision,” Francona said. “He’ll be included in that.”"

Saying they will try to get him back is much different than saying he is back to 100 percent, but it is a good sign. However, it may be too late.

If Brantley is indeed able to return, it may only be in a pinch-hitter role for the duration of the postseason. His return could take a spot from a player like Greg Allen, who could serve roles both on the bases and in the field.

To be clear, I want Brantley to be a contributing part of this team. He is one of the best hitters on the team when healthy and deserves a shot to play after all the adversity he has faced. However, the team needs as much value as possible available on the roster in every game.

If the coaching staff deems Brantley is only available as a pinch-hitter, that means bringing him in would require two players, as he would need to be replaced in the field. This all depends on how the ankle is holding up, and Brantley may not even know that until he plays in a game.

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Two days ago I said a Brantley return is doubtful, and now the team is saying he may be back in a few days. I’ll hold off on any bold claims, but will say one thing. I would love nothing more than for Brantley to go all Kirk Gibson in the playoffs and become a hero. He deserves it.