Boston Red Sox second baseman Enrique Hernandez (hip) took two simulated at-bats against left-hander Chris Sale (ribs) on Thursday, and he’s getting close to what the team expects to be a short minor league rehab assignment. Hernandez is recovering from a strained right hip and could play in some rehab games this weekend before rejoining the Red Sox early next week. Young outfielder Jarren Duran has been the team’s leadoff hitter each of the last two days, but he could be headed for a limited role or a return to the minors when Hernandez is activated from the injured list. Hernandez has hit just .209/.273/.340 this year with four home runs, 24 RBI and 27 runs scored in 51 games for Boston, but he should return to regular playing time.