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Toronto Blue Jays: 5 Storylines to Follow in September

By Paul Taylor

Aug 26, 2016; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Blue Jays first baseman Justin Smoak (14) is greeted by left fielder Melvin Upton Jr. (7) and right fielder Jose Bautista (19) after hitting a three run home run against Minnesota Twins in the second inning at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 26, 2016; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Blue Jays first baseman Justin Smoak (14) is greeted by left fielder Melvin Upton Jr. (7) and right fielder Jose Bautista (19) after hitting a three run home run against Minnesota Twins in the second inning at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports /
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Toronto Blue Jays
Aug 29, 2016; Baltimore, MD, USA; Toronto Blue Jays designated hitter Edwin Encarnacion (right) argues with umpire Alan Porter (left) after striking out in the first inning against the Baltimore Orioles at Oriole Park at Camden Yards. Mandatory Credit: Evan Habeeb-USA TODAY Sports /

5) Edwin Encarnacion‘s attempts to ignore off-field distractions

When spring training started, Encarnacion made it clear he was setting a deadline of opening day to resolve his contract situation. After that point, if no deal had been agreed, he would cease negotiations so he could concentrate on just playing.

Certainly, this seems to have been a smart approach, as evidenced by leading the team in homers and RBIs, while also being second in hits and runs. In the process, the 33-year old has strengthened his case for a substantial new deal, whether it be with the Blue Jays or someone else.

However, while avoiding discussing his contract situation, Encarnacion now has another off-field distraction with which to contend. As recently reported by the Toronto Star and other media outlets, a 24-year old woman from New York is suing him, claiming he knowingly infected her with two STDs.

The three-time All-Star’s agent has said the lawsuit is inappropriate and meritless, with him intending to file a counterclaim. The Blue Jays will understandably hope the case doesn’t affect Encarnacion’s on-field production, especially as we enter the most critical stage of the season.

Next: Nearly time to say goodbye?

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