Toronto Blue Jays: Will Edwin Encarnacion End Up in Boston?
By Paul Taylor
As the prospect of Toronto Blue Jays’ slugger Edwin Encarnacion becoming a free agent grows with every passing day, is it possible he will be wearing a Red Sox jersey next season?
As we recently wrote, Edwin Encarnacion is enjoying arguably his best campaign yet in a Toronto Blue Jays jersey. One example of this is his RBI rate, which projects to 140 over the season, well ahead of his previous career-best of 111, which he set just last year.
The fact it’s happening in Encarnacion’s contract year, makes the situation even more compelling. With every passing game his value is rising, which will obviously only cost the Blue Jays more money, if they want him to return next season.
Another problem with the three-time All Star’s continued production, is it will also increase interest from other teams. In that respect, one team in particular which is likely already intrigued by him, is the Boston Red Sox.
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Certainly, it would make sense, with David Ortiz set to retire at the end of this season. In fact, “Big Papi” himself has indicated he would like to see Encarnacion in a Red Sox uniform next season.
Speaking recently to Rob Bradford of weei.com and the rest of the media, Ortiz said: “Hell, yeah. He’s a perfect replacement…because of everything, but mostly because he can hit.”
Of course the Red Sox -along with the Yankees – will always be linked to the majority of big-name players, by virtue of their reputation, history and finances. However, there are also some key influences in Boston, who could help persuade the 33-year old to join them.
As reported by Nick Cafardo of The Boston Globe, Manager John Farrell, bench coach Torey Lovullo and third base coach Brian Butterfield were all previously with the Blue Jays. In addition, Cafardo points out how all three are big supporters of Encarnacion.
From Encarnacion’s point of view, his response was interesting, when told about Ortiz’s preference for him to be his replacement in Boston: “That’s what he says.
“We’ll see what’s going to happen. For now I’m with the Blue Jays and I’m just trying to contribute to us winning.”
Of course, the first baseman and DH’s words can be twisted however you want, depending on if you want to make an argument for him staying in Toronto, or leaving for Boston. For example, he has indicated his desire to remain in Southern Ontario, but also has a close relationship with Ortiz.
Ultimately – if given the chance – you know the Red Sox will come up with an offer to blow Encarnacion away. The question is, how much money/how many years, is the Blue Jays front office prepared to offer, in order to retain his services after this season?
Next: Where does Chris Colabello fit in?
Which of these scenarios do you see being most likely with Encarnacion next season – he remains in Toronto, he joins the Red Sox or he plays somewhere else? Let us know in the comments section below.