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MLB Free Agency 2017: 5 potential teams for Edwin Encarnacion

By Joshua Sadlock

Oct 14, 2016; Cleveland, OH, USA; Toronto Blue Jays designated hitter Edwin Encarnacion hits a single against the Cleveland Indians in the third inning in game one of the 2016 ALCS playoff baseball series at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 14, 2016; Cleveland, OH, USA; Toronto Blue Jays designated hitter Edwin Encarnacion hits a single against the Cleveland Indians in the third inning in game one of the 2016 ALCS playoff baseball series at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports /
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Oct 18, 2016; Scottsdale, AZ, USA; Scottsdale Scorpions infielder Greg Bird of the New York Yankees in the dugout against the Surprise Saguaros during an Arizona Fall League game at Scottsdale Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 18, 2016; Scottsdale, AZ, USA; Scottsdale Scorpions infielder Greg Bird of the New York Yankees in the dugout against the Surprise Saguaros during an Arizona Fall League game at Scottsdale Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /

New York Yankees

While it is unlikely that there are actually over 10 teams interested in Edwin Encarnacion, the Yankees could very well be among the suitors when the dust settles. This offseason, the Bronx Bombers have to be viewed as a dark-horse contender for every major free agent. After a quiet 2015-16 offseason, look for the Yankees to be prepared to jump back in the action and make a splashy signing.

With Mark Teixeira’s retirement and the uncertainty surrounding the readiness of Greg Bird, the Yankees could be in the market for a first baseman, and Encarnacion plays the position well enough for the time being. After missing the entire 2016 season due to injury, Bird may be better served being brought along slowly in the minor leagues next year. He is currently struggling in the Arizona Fall League and is only 24 years old.

It’s time to expect the Yankees to begin behaving like the Yankees again, and Encarnacion is a good choice to help them fill out their budding young lineup. If New York is able to quickly find a trade partner to take Brian McCann off their hands, signing Encarnacion becomes even easier. Brian Cashman and the Steinbrenners do need to remain patient while they wait for the young talent to mature, but one big free-agent play should be in the cards this offseason.

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