CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Michael Brantley was asked just how much running his right ankle will tolerate.

"I can get to first base, second base, third base and home," said Brantley. "That's all I need to do and that's what I can do."

The Indians activated Brantley on Saturday. He made a pinch-hitting appearance in the fifth inning a few hours later. He dueled White Sox right-hander Carson Fulmer through a 10-pitch at-bat that ended in a single to right. It was his first at-bat since Aug. 8 when he injured his ankle while playing left field.

The sellout crowd gave Brantley a standing ovation as he came to the plate.

"It was very much appreciated. It gave me chills. It gave me goosebumps," said Brantley. "To hear that crowd as they stood up, and remembering how hard you've worked to come back each time you get injured, it was very much appreciated.

"Anytime you get a standing ovation from people you care about, it means a lot."

In Sunday's season finale, Brantley pinch-hit for Edwin Encarnacion and grounded out twice, as the Indians beat the White Sox, 3-1, for their 102nd victory in the regular season finale. It's the second most wins by the Indians in franchise history.

As for speculation that Brantley will be added to the AL Division Series roster, Brantley said, "That's up to management and Tito. They're going to make the best decision for this team. That's all I care about is winning games. Whatever they decide is out of my control."

Brantley missed the postseason last year because of surgery on his right shoulder. Could an ankle injury keep him on the bench this year as well?

"It is what it is," said Brantley. "I can only do so much. I'm only human. I understand I got hurt. It happens. I missed it last year. I don't want to miss if this year if I can. If I have to, I have to.

"All I care about is this team winning ballgames. I'll never change that attitude. It's a team first approach around here for everybody. Whatever roster gives us the best chance to win, I'm all for it."

The Indians open the ALDS on Thursday at Progressive Field. They will face the winner of Tuesday's wild-card game between New York and the Twins at Yankee Stadium.

They will have an informal workout on Monday. On Tuesday, they will work out again with Ryan Merritt throwing a simulated game against the Tribe's regulars. Brantley will be fully engaged as he tries to convince the Indians that he's ready to help them Indians in the ALDS.

On Wednesday the Indians their opponent in the ALDS will workout at Progressive Field in the final preparation before Game 1 on Thursday. A time for the game has yet to be set.

"It would mean a lot to make the roster," said Brantley. "But as I said before it's whatever management wants. I'm not pulling one way or the other. I'm going to go out there and do my job to the best of my ability if I'm on there. If not, I'm going to be the biggest cheerleader I can be. The most important thing is that we win baseball games."