Edwin: Indians have 'best chance' to win WS New Cleveland slugger unveiled at press conference Thursday By Jordan Bastian / MLB.com | @MLBastian | January 5th, 2017 CLEVELAND -- It is being described as the perfect fit. The Indians craved right-handed power, and Edwin Encarnacion offered that in surplus. Encarnacion wants to win, and he watched Cleveland take down his former Blue Jays last October to clinch a spot in the World Series. On Thursday, Encarnacion officially joined the Tribe on a three-year contract. Standing in front of his new locker at Progressive Field, he donned a white Indians jersey, pulled on a Cleveland cap, smiled wide and raised both arms in celebration. The uniform fit just fine, and Encarnacion's bat will fit perfectly into the heart of Cleveland's lineup as the club attempts to defend its American League crown. "Here we go. We're here," said Encarnacion, who had a host of family members at his side. "Everybody knows that Cleveland has one of the best teams in the American League and the best chance to win the World Series. So I'm happy to be here." How this blockbuster free-agent signing came together, however, was a complicated puzzle that took time to assemble. "There were a lot of twists and turns," said Chris Antonetti, the Indians' president of baseball operations. "Quite frankly, at the start of the offseason, we didn't think that this would be possible because of the economic commitment that it would take to sign Edwin." Encarnacion's deal with the Indians is worth $60 million in guaranteed salary, which includes a $5 million buyout for a $25 million team option for the 2020 season. The first baseman is slated to earn $13 million in '17, $17 million in '18 and $20 million in '19, and his contract came with a $5 million signing bonus. If Cleveland picks up Encarnacion's fourth-year option, the pact would have a maximum value of $80 million. During the General Managers Meetings, Encarnacion's camp turned down a four-year, $80 million offer from Toronto. The Blue Jays moved on quickly, signing Kendrys Morales and later adding Steve Pearce. The Astros, who also had an offer turned down early in the winter, signed Carlos Beltran. As Encarnacion's options dwindled, the Indians and Rangers kept in touch. The Indians were in talks with Encarnacion's agent, Paul Kinzer, throughout the offseason, but the negotiations gained swift momentum on Dec. 22, when the A's surprisingly made a strong push. Oakland came calling with a unique and lucrative offer. Encarnacion could earn $50 million over two years, but the A's also offered an opt-out clause after one season and an option for a third year. • Edwin meets Cleveland at the Cavs game "That opened his eyes," Kinzer said of Encarnacion's reaction to Oakland's offer. "A big part of it was [A's general manager Billy Beane] told us, 'This isn't a sign-and-trade. I want to sign him and help us get to the next level quicker.'" Kinzer called Encarnacion, who was intrigued by Oakland's overtures. That then prompted the agent to reach out to Antonetti, who was attending a "Little Mermaid" play with his family at the time. Kinzer, as it happened, was at Six Flags Over Georgia with his family. In New Jersey, general manager Mike Chernoff's wife was kind enough to handle bedtime for their kids, so he could get on the phone, too. Antonetti had to step out multiple times to call Kinzer, who was sending texts and making calls between rides at Six Flags. The Indians president quipped that the deal came to fruition between renditions of "Under the Sea" and "Part of Your World." "I think it was halfway through the second [act], my battery died on my phone," Antonetti said. "I was done. That was it. At that point, all that I The deal to land Encarnacion represents the largest contract given out by the Indians in terms of guaranteed dollars. Cleveland gave Travis Hafner a four-year, $57 million extension in 2007 and signed free agent Nick Swisher to a four-year, $56 million deal prior to the '13 season. Reeling in big-money free agents does not usually fit the Indians' modus operandi, but this situation was different. By adding Encarnacion, the Indians are continuing to try to seize their moment. Cleveland heads into the 2017 campaign as the reigning AL Central and AL champions. At the non-waiver Trade Deadline last summer, the Tribe reeled in relief ace Andrew Miller in a huge trade with the Yankees. Miller was named the MVP of the ALCS, during which the Indians defeated the Blue Jays in five games. It took four prospects to land Miller. Cleveland will also forfeit its first-round pick in the 2017 MLB Draft (No. 25 overall) due to signing Encarnacion. That is a heavy cost, both in terms of dollars and future talent, but the Indians know they have a chance to capitalize on their current contention window. "As we headed into the offseason, we didn't expect to have these types of resources," Chernoff said. "Ownership has always stepped up in situations when it seems like the right investment to make. At the Trade Deadline, we didn't expect to be able to acquire Andrew Miller, and we were able to do that. We've always had faith that ownership would be willing to support us in the right moment. This is one of those moments." The reaction from fans has been encouraging, too. Since the news broke that Encarnacion had agreed to sign with Cleveland, the Indians have sold more than $1 million in season tickets. There has been a 50-percent increase in new sales, compared to the entire offseason last year. Along those lines, Kinzer even had an attendance clause added to Encarnaction's contract. If the Indians hit certain attendance milestones, the slugger can receive bonuses. The specifics of that aspect are not immediately known. "That was a way to bridge the gap [in negotiations]," Kinzer said. "If Edwin contributes to that, then we should be rewarded for it." Encarnacion, who will turn 34 on Saturday, hit .263 with 42 home runs, 34 doubles, 87 walks, 99 runs and 127 RBIs last season for the Blue Jays. The first baseman and designated hitter has spent parts of the past eight years with Toronto, developing into one of the elite right-handed sluggers in the game. Over the 2012-16 seasons, Encarnacion (193 homers and 550 RBIs) ranked second to only Chris Davis (197) in home runs and Miguel Cabrera (569) in RBIs. Encarnacion's .273 isolated power in that span ranked first among batters with a minimum of 2,300 at-bats. Among that same sample of hitters, Encarnacion also ranked first in at-bats per home runs (13.9). His .544 slugging percentage ranked third behind only Cabrera (.574) and Mike Trout (.564). "If you look at his consistency, he's remarkably consistent," Antonetti said. "He not only brings an element of power, but he commands the strike zone extremely well also," Antonetti said. "That kind of hitter can have a big impact on our team and make the players around him better. All he has to do is be himself." With the Indians, Encarnacion would split time between first and DH with Carlos Santana, who had his $12 million team option picked up for '17. Last season, Mike Napoli filled that role for Cleveland and launched 34 homers with a team-high 101 RBIs. Adding Encarnacion effectively ends what was a memorable one-year run with the Tribe for Napoli. "That was the most difficult part of that process," Antonetti said, "because we all know what he meant to our team both on the field and in the clubhouse."

Napoli was a favorite among fans, who embraced the "Party at Napoli's" slogan last year. Of course, Encarnacion can easily win fans over with the kind of power displays he put on for the Blue Jays. His home runs also come with the "Edwing" trot, during which the slugger raises his right arm while rounding the bases like he is carrying an invisible parrot. Encarnacion laughed when asked if the parrot was also coming to Cleveland. "We've got to ask immigration and see," he joked. Castro: Tribe hoping for huge return on EE investment By Anthony Castrovince / MLB.com | @castrovince | January 5th, 2017 CLEVELAND -- The term Indians team president Chris Antonetti used to describe the $60 million investment that the ownership made in Edwin Encarnacion was "leap of faith." Perhaps, because this press conference was almost immediately followed by another -- the one announcing that Billy Joel will be playing Progressive Field this summer -- "A Matter of Trust" would have been more apt. Anyway, you get the idea. In adding Encarnacion to an American League pennant-winning roster, the Indians are hoping for a level of fan engagement and are financially extending themselves in a way that hasn't happened in decades. One night of Billy Joel throwing on a suit and banging on the piano keys is bound to put people in the seats. But the local nine has had a much more difficult time getting that kind of love night after night. "We hope we can continue to build on the support and enthusiasm around the city during the postseason," Antonetti said. "And we hope the support will continue with heightened attendance at the ballpark." Progressive Field is currently under renovations for the third consecutive offseason, the last phase of a dramatic and expensive reimagining of the facility that has accommodated the group-gathering and social-media-minded tastes of the times. The front office built a contender on a budget and used resources from its fruitful farm system to land Andrew Miller, the midseason acquisition who put the team over the top and into the World Series for the first time in nearly two decades. And now, with sound baseball logic but against all reasonable financial logic, the club has brought in one of baseball's biggest bats to amplify the middle of the order. You might have heard that the World Series run and the Encarnacion addition have ushered in an uptick in season-ticket sales. That is true. The Indians' base was around 7,500 in 2016, and it is currently just shy of 11,000. In the first day after the Encarnacion news broke, the Indians sold roughly 500 season tickets. This would have qualified as a month's worth of action in the not-too-distant past. Of course, the upticks cover only a fraction of Encarnacion's 2017 salary. And what this all points to is a conversation that has been had in these parts for a long time. We know the Indians are never going to challenge the 455-game sellout streak that began in the 1990s, when the ballpark was new, the Browns were gone, the local economy was strong and the team was fantastic. But will the Tribe ever consistently fill Progressive Field's seats again? And if not now, when? The Indians, it turned out, had a World Series-caliber roster without Michael Brantley, Carlos Carrasco and Danny Salazar and, obviously, without Encarnacion, whose former Blue Jays they bounced in the ALCS. Add all those guys to the mix (albeit with Mike Napoli and Game 7 icon Rajai Davis out of the picture) and you've got something both special and, given the whims of this particular sport, uncomfortable -- a prohibitive favorite in the weak AL Central. Relative to the Major League marketplace, the Indians scored a coup with the Encarnacion deal, which breaks down as follows: • $5 million signing bonus • $13 million salary in 2017 • $17 million in '18 • $20 million in '19 • $25 million club option or $5 million buyout in '20 So it's actually "only" a $60 million guaranteed commitment, not the $65 million originally reported. Juxtapose this deal against the price tag of Encarnacion's fellow free agent, Yoenis Cespedes (four years, $110 million) or merely consider how unimaginable it appeared mere weeks ago, and it's back slaps and attaboys all around for owners Larry and Paul Dolan, minority owner John Sherman, Antonetti, general manager Mike Chernoff and manager Terry Francona. But the Indians know they're taking a monumental risk here. Ownership knows it is going to take another deep October run to make it even remotely worthwhile. And significant attendance escalation would actually only add to the Encarnacion cost, as he can make as much as $1 million more per year based on attendance-related bonuses built into this deal. The Indians have been compared to the Royals in their hope of turning a crushing Game 7 loss into a championship the following year. But the comparison also begs us to consider what is happening to the Royals right now, as they begin the painful process of paring down their payroll and, along with it, their hopes of getting back to that stage soon. The Indians' roster is maturing and, therefore, getting more expensive, and the Encarnacion contract will be both a boon to their lineup and a challenge to navigate around. Even without Encarnacion, the 2017 payroll was going to jump more than $20 million -- with zero additions -- to account for in-house salary increases. That's the backdrop that made Encarnacion's move to the Indians seem so inconceivable. And Encarnacion's agent, Paul Kinzer, said that while Cleveland and Texas were by far the two most engaged clubs with his client, even he had his doubts that the Tribe could pull this off. But the market conditions worked in the Indians' favor, and then the Dolans happily swallowed hard and gave the go-ahead. Encarnacion's first choice was to return to Toronto, but the Blue Jays quickly pivoted to Kendrys Morales after Encarnacion turned down their four-year, $80 million offer at the General Managers Meetings in November. Encarnacion also turned down an offer from the Astros, in the range of $75 million, at that time. "We didn't know what was going to happen with the Collective Bargaining Agreement," Kinzer said. "We didn't know what the [luxury tax] limitations on teams would be. People are saying we overplayed our hand, but we didn't know what the hand was." Encarnacion, entering his age-34 season and tied to Draft-pick compensation in a market loaded with right-handed bats, lost all hand in contract talks, making his initial hope of a nine-figure deal prove impossible. He got an attractive last-minute offer from the A's -- two years, $50

million with an opt-out after the first year and a third-year club option -- but the Indians' superior competitive situation and improved proximity to his native Dominican Republic won out. And so, the Indians won the sweepstakes. But the win is not without its drawbacks, including the 25th overall Draft pick that was surrendered (cost-controlled young talent is the lifeblood of an organization in this market size) and, of course, the fact that this is the largest contract this team has ever given a single player. So there is both excitement and anxiety in the Tribe's front office right now, because a team not prone to going all in has done exactly that. Call it a leap of faith or a matter of trust, but, to borrow yet another Billy Joel line, the Indians looked at their 2017 outlook and said, "This Is the Time." Anthony Castrovince For Doby Jr., life and career to come full circle Son of Indians legend to help turn Progressive Field into concert venue for Joel By Anthony Castrovince / MLB.com | @castrovince | January 5th, 2017 CLEVELAND -- Center field at the Indians' home park was once Larry Doby's domain, the place where the man who integrated the American League established himself as a seven-time All-Star and Hall of Famer. But come July, it will be a different Doby out in center -- not breaking down a barrier, but setting up a stage. Larry Doby Jr. has spent the last 23 years as a rigger on Billy Joel's road crew, which made Thursday's announcement that Joel will headline a concert at Progressive Field so meaningful for him. Joel will play the show on July 14, exactly 70 years and nine days after the elder Doby debuted with the Tribe. "It's quite exciting to come here in a professional capacity," Doby said before the news conference announcing the Joel show. "I'm normally only here for something concerning my dad. To be in the city where they opened up their hearts to him and he made history, with my boss Billy Joel? It's kind of fun." Had the bloodline come with guarantees -- and, more to the point, had curveballs not been so complex -- maybe the younger Doby would have followed further in his dad's baseball footsteps. Doby Jr. played baseball at Duke University and spent a few seasons in the White Sox farm system in the late 1970s and early '80s, but it ultimately wasn't meant to be. And so Doby navigated into a different realm of entertainment altogether. He became a union stage hand working at Madison Square Garden in New York City, the Meadowlands Arena in his native New Jersey and Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum on Long Island. Sometime in the 1990s, Joel's longtime production manager, Bob Thrasher, asked Doby Jr. if he'd like to be a part of the Piano Man's crew. And here we are, all these years, tours and banged piano keys later. "I'm probably not even in the top 10 in terms of longevity working for Billy Joel," Doby Jr. said. "There's guys who have been with him when he was just doing colleges. So it speaks volumes about what kind of person he is. Nobody ever leaves him, because of how they're treated. It's a very lucky thing to be able to work with him." Joel is also a big baseball fan -- the Yankees and Mets, specifically. He and Doby Jr. have talked about the game over the years, but it wasn't until Joel happened upon "Pride Against Prejudice: The Larry Doby Story" when it aired on Showtime in 2007 that the rocker gained a greater understanding of what his employee's father meant to the sport. "He saw it on cable TV one night, and the next day he emailed me and said, 'That's the way a documentary should be,'" Doby Jr. recalled. "He was very complimentary on the things my father did and said I should be very proud." Doby Jr. is proud to be associated with both famous men, and it is the association with his father that has brought him back to Cleveland many times over the years, most recently when the Indians unveiled the bronze statue of his dad in 2015. This trip will be a little different, and setting up a stadium show -- as Joel's crew has done many times at Wrigley Field, Fenway Park and elsewhere -- is, in general, a challenging assignment. "The parks are not necessarily multi-purposeful," Doby said. "These are baseball fields. It's not like in the '70s or '80s, where they made these cookie-cutter things where everything was accessible. You have to transfer the equipment and know what particular rules apply to the stadium and what they don't want you to touch or mess up. But we've got some good guys who have done this a long time, and we're able to scout it out and get it done." In July, Doby Jr. will do his work not in the same exact spot that was once his dad's domain (old Municipal Stadium was, of course, torn down long ago), but close enough. "It's still the city," he said. "There are people here that I've had relationships with from when my dad was alive. So it's always good to come here. It's as close to home as you can be." Anthony Castrovince has been a reporter for MLB.com since 2004. Read his columns and follow him on Twitter at @Castrovince. This story Inbox: What's OF look like without Rajai? By Jordan Bastian / MLB.com | @MLBastian | January 4th, 2017 Regardless of Rajai Davis' value as a hitter and fielder, he obviously played a huge role in the Indians' run with his baserunning and stealing. Without Davis, what are the Indians' options? -- Austin M. Davis played a key role for the Indians last season, especially with the running game. There is the obvious: Davis led the American League with 43 steals and a 10.0 BsR (min. 450 plate appearances). The veteran also helped youngsters like Francisco Lindor and Jose Ramirez embrace aggressiveness on the basepaths, too. And, of course, Davis' game-tying homer in Game 7 of the World Series was one of the moments of the year in baseball. The Indians had interest in re-signing Davis, but the 36-year-old outfielder opted to take a one-year, $6 million deal with the A's. Adding slugger Edwin Encarnacion to the fold was a heavy investment for the Indians (three years, $60 million guaranteed), making the budget tight for other signings. Cleveland may still be looking at external upgrades, but the outfield could be solved internally.

Cleveland has a sound platoon situation for right field with Lonnie Chisenhall (.784 OPS vs. RHP in 2016) and Brandon Guyer (1.021 OPS vs. LHP in '16). Tyler Naquin was used mostly as a platoon option in center last year, and he could conceivably share time with switch-hitting Abraham Almonte next season. For left, the Indians are hoping that Michael Brantley will be ready to go after an injury-marred '16. • Submit a question to the Indians Inbox Beyond that group, Cleveland has third baseman Ramirez, who can slide into left field if needed. The Indians will also be taking a close look at prospect Yandy Diaz during Spring Training. He can play third base and corner outfield, too. The Tribe will also head into '17 knowing that its top prospect, outfielder Bradley Zimmer, may be knocking on the big leagues' door at some point this summer. OF Michael Brantley began some non-contact swinging over the holiday break while back home. Will continue rehab in Cleveland this week. @MLBastian heard Brantley injury is worse than they are leading on. Any truth behind this In late December, Jonah Keri of CBS Sports was interviewed on a Toronto radio station and described Brantley's injury as "horrific" and said he did not think the outfielder would be "a significant contributor" in 2017, citing sources. There has been nothing else yet to support that claim. This is the middle of the offseason, so everything right now should be treated as speculation. It will be easier to gauge Brantley's progress from the biceps tenodesis surgery he had on his right arm in August when reporters can monitor his daily activity in the spring. All that is known now is that Brantley resumed light non-contact swinging while back home over the holidays and the left fielder will continue his rehab in Cleveland in the weeks leading up to Spring Training. To this point, Indians team president Chris Antonetti has said that Brantley is in the plans as Cleveland's left fielder for Opening Day after being limited to just 11 games last season. Perhaps the more important question is not whether Brantley will be in the lineup, but how effective he will be after coming back. The right shoulder, which is the source of the original injury and surgery in November 2015, is critical for a left-handed batter's swing. @MLBastian #IndiansInbox Happy New Year! Who likely steps into Mike Napoli's clubhouse role? The intangibles really can be hard to replace. There is no denying that Mike Napoli made an impact behind the scenes. He led by example and was a great resource for some of the Tribe's younger players. That said, some of the Tribe's core players are entering their prime years and have grown into clubhouse leaders. It might be time to start realizing that players such as Jason Kipnis, Corey Kluber, Cody Allen and Brantley, among others, have become veteran voices in the room. As a group, they have now been through a deep postseason run together, too. This is not to say that Napoli's presence won't be missed, but the leadership structure seems to be in good shape. Another Inbox call for tomorrow on http://Indians.com . Send Tribe Q's to jordan.bastian@mlb.com or submit here with #IndiansInbox. @MLBastian Do you think Naquin should play full time against righties and lefties? His stats look good off lefties as well. At a quick glance, yes, Naquin's .775 OPS against lefty pitching is solid. What you have to keep in mind is that sample includes only 40 plate appearances. One of the reason's the rookie outfielder performed so well offensively was that manager Terry Francona picked his spots and limited Naquin's exposure to lefties. It was also Naquin's first time in the Majors, so protecting him some made sense as he learned the league. If the roster remains as is for Opening Day, I'd expect Naquin to have split duties at the start of the year. But he could certainly grow into a larger role as the season progresses. @mlbastian How are the Indians planning to split playing time between Yan Gomes and Roberto Perez? #IndiansInbox The Indians signed Yan Gomes through 2019 and included team options that could keep him around through '21. That investment, which includes a $4.5 million salary for '17, means that Gomes will be the starting catcher in all likelihood. If he gets off to a slow start and the offensive struggles of last season persist, then Roberto Perez could find himself earning more at-bats. One thing is certain -- even with last year's hitting woes for both catchers, Cleveland boasts one of the top defensive duos in the game. Another Inbox call for tomorrow on http://Indians.com . Send Tribe Q's to jordan.bastian@mlb.com or submit here with #IndiansInbox. @MLBastian Thoughts on Santana in the OF? Looked fine in WS and would open up a spot for another 1B/DH bat. Napoli? #IndiansInbox If by "fine" you mean that Carlos Santana survived without making a World Series-altering mistake, then yes, he looked fine out there. You should know, though, that Francona nearly swallowed his gum when Kris Bryant sent a liner to Santana in left field in the first inning of Game 3 at Wrigley Field. The manager hoisted his arms in the air in celebration when Santana made the catch. Putting him in the outfield was a two-game strategy to maximize offense without the designated hitter available. It was not a trial run for the Indians' 2017 outfield. Expect Santana to stick to playing first and DHing, splitting those duties with Encarnacion. Jordan Bastian Hello, Cleveland: Indians welcome slugger Encarnacion TOM WITHERS (AP Sports Writer) CLEVELAND (AP) -- With his family watching proudly, Edwin Encarnacion stood in front of his new locker inside Cleveland's clubhouse, pulled on a fitted cap and slowly buttoned the front of his white No. 10 jersey. Once finished, he pointed to the ''Indians'' logo on his chest and flashed a huge smile as cameras clicked. It felt seamless. ''He's a perfect fit for our team,'' Indians president Chris Antonetti said Thursday. In so many ways. The Indians, accustomed to being outspent for high-priced free agents winter after winter, introduced Encarnacion, a premium player for the middle of their lineup who will boost attendance and maybe help them win the World Series.

One of baseball's most productive hitters over the past five years, Encarnacion finalized a $60 million, three-year contract - the richest in Cleveland history - with a team that got to Game 7 of the Series last season. Encarnacion's deal would be worth $80 million over four years if the Indians exercise a $25 million option for 2020 that includes a $5 million buyout. There are also attendance bonuses built in as both the Indians and Encarnacion's agent, Paul Kinzer, recognized the three-time All-Star's ability to spin turnstiles. ''He's a quiet guy that just goes out and grinds every day,'' Kinzer said. ''This is a blue-collar town and he's a blue-collar guy. Cleveland is going to love him.'' Encarnacion averaged 39 homers and 110 RBIs over the past five seasons with Toronto, which made it to the AL Championship Series last season only to be eliminated in five games by the Indians. Encarnacion, who turns 34 on Saturday, watched Cleveland's players celebrate at Rogers Centre that day in October not ever imagining he would be joining them a little more than two months later. But while he figured to land with Boston or Texas or in another major market, Cleveland's pitch was the most persistent. And although the first baseman and designated hitter could have made more money elsewhere, Encarnacion wanted to join a winner. The Indians, with one of the majors' best pitching staffs and a lineup featuring young stars in Francisco Lindor and Jason Kipnis, are positioned to contend for years. ''That's why I came here,'' Encarnacion said. ''I believe in this team and I know we can win the World Series with the talent that we have.'' The Indians' courtship of Encarnacion began with owner Paul Dolan's commitment to building on the momentum created by the team's AL Central title and first Series appearance since 1997. Cleveland was boosted by cleanup hitter Mike Napoli, who set career highs in homers and RBIs during his one season with the Indians. There were better options available and, after deciding not to re-sign Napoli, the Indians focused on Encarnacion, who hit 42 homers and drove in 127 runs last season. Antonetti didn't have to sell Dolan on Encarnacion's obvious talents. The challenge was convincing him that the slugger was worth a long-term financial obligation. ''It took a lot of work to make that happen, both compromises from our side and compromises from Edwin's side to make this fit and be the right fit for both teams,'' Antonetti said. ''And it took a great leap of faith by ownership to make that extraordinary investment.'' It also took some clever negotiating. As the sides were nearing a deal, Oakland made a $50 million, two-year offer that caused the Indians to counter. Kinzer proposed an attendance clause, a suggestion Antonetti initially wasn't sure was possible. ''That was a way to bridge the gap,'' Kinzer said. ''When Edwin went on that run five years ago, Toronto was at 1.9 (million) in attendance. Now, they're at 3.4. Well, if Edwin contributes to that, then we should be rewarded for it.'' The Indians agreed and Encarnacion has already made an impact, as the team has sold more than $1 million in season tickets since he agreed to the deal on Dec. 22. He would earn bonuses of $150,000 each when the Indians reach 2 million, 2.15 million, 2.3 million, 2.5 million and 2.75 million in home attendance. He can make another $250,000 for 3 million. Encarnacion gets a $5 million signing bonus, half payable on May 1 and the rest Aug. 1, and salaries of $13 million this year, $17 million in 2018 and $20 million in 2019. Once the deal's parameters were settled, Antonetti and Kinzer then had to maneuver around some family holiday obligations. As they neared an agreement, Kinzer was at Six Flags Amusement Park in Atlanta with his grandchildren to see Santa Claus, while Antonetti was attending a performance of ''The Little Mermaid'' with his wife and two daughters. Antonetti ducked in and out of the theater's auditorium before closing the biggest deal in team history during a break between two songs from the musical. ''We were somewhere between 'Under the Sea' and 'Part of Your World,' he said with a smile. ''It was a great performance.'' The Indians can take a bow for theirs, as well. Indians officially introduce Edwin Encarnacion, detail process of another aggressive move

By RYAN LEWIS Published: January 5, 2017

When the smoke cleared from Game 7 of the World Series and work for the offseason began, the Indians didn’t think Edwin Encarnacion coming to Cleveland was a real possibility.

But, with financial support from ownership that combined with a saturated market for first baseman, Encarnacion began to tread in Indians’ airspace as a potential target. His signing, which adds one of baseball’s best hitters into the middle of the lineup, quickly became a new possibility and then, on Dec. 22, a reality, when he and the Indians agreed to a three-year, $60 million deal that includes a club option for the 2020 season.

Once it became apparent Encarnacion might be an option, Indians president of baseball operations Chris Antonetti went to owner Paul Dolan to discuss the heavy financial burden it would be to bring him in. Ownership supported the aggressive, costly move as the right fit to the roster, and on Thursday Encarnacion was officially introduced as the newest and most expensive player to ever don an Indians uniform.

“Quite frankly, at the start of the offseason, we didn’t think that this would be possible because of the economic commitment that it would take to sign Edwin, but they made a leap of faith,” Antonetti said of the Dolans. “They made a leap of faith in our team, in the belief that we’re a good team that has a chance to compete for a postseason and, hopefully, a World Series.”

Finishing the deal took some time management skills by Antonetti, as well as some split focus between the final details of the agreement and a play of The Little Mermaid with his daughters. Major free-agent contracts don’t always come to fruition at the most convenient times. Somewhere between “Under the Sea” and “Part of Your World,” Antonetti closed the biggest deal in franchise history.

“There was a lot of text messaging and then I stepped out for two calls during the performance,” Antonetti said of his conversations with Encarnacion’s agent, Paul Kinzer, who was in-between rides at Six Flags at the time. “Thankfully I’ve seen it before, so I know what happens. But it was actually a great performance. They did a phenomenal job. It gave me a little more leeway with my daughters because they were so locked in, less attentive to the fact that I was texting during the performance.”

All of that work will put Encarnacion, who turns 34 on Saturday, in the middle of the Indians’ lineup for at least the next three seasons as he takes Mike Napoli’s spot on the roster. Napoli was universally praised for his production in the regular season and his presence in the Indians’ clubhouse. Encarnacion has been one of the best sluggers in baseball and one of the most productive hitters in the game over the past five seasons. As his price tag dropped due to a saturated market and the draft-pick compensation tied to his name, the Indians jumped at the chance to upgrade the heart of their order.

“The most difficult part about that process for us, honestly, was knowing that signing Edwin would mean that we couldn't bring Mike Napoli back,” Antonetti said. “That was the most difficult part of that process, because we all know what he meant to our team both on the field and in the clubhouse.”

It was a costly deal by Cleveland's standards financially, and it will also strip the Indians of their first-round pick in the upcoming amateur draft, as the Toronto Blue Jays had extended Encarnacion a qualifying offer. The trade for Andrew Miller last July signaled the Indians were serious about this competitive window. The signing of Encarnacion put all of their proverbial chips in the middle of the table.

“Ownership has always stepped up in situations when it seems like the right investment to make,” Indians general manager Mike Chernoff said. “At the trade deadline, we didn't expect to be able to acquire Andrew Miller, and we were able to do that. We've always had faith that ownership would be willing to support us in the right moment. This is one of those moments.”

Akron Beacon Journal LOADED: 01.06.2017

Indians’ signing of Edwin Encarnacion official with passed physical

By RYAN LEWIS Published: January 5, 2017

One of the most aggressive moves in franchise history is now official.

Edwin Encarnacion passed his physical on Wednesday, the final hurdle to the club being able to officially announce the biggest contract they have ever handed out to a free agent. Encarnacion and the Indians on Dec. 22 agreed to a three-year, $60 million deal that also includes a $5 million buyout and club option for the 2020 season.

It was a costly deal by Cleveland's standards financially, and it will also strip the Indians of their first-round pick in the upcoming amateur draft, as the Toronto Blue Jays had extended Encarnacion a qualifying offer. The trade for Andrew Miller last July signaled the Indians were serious about this competitive window. The signing of Encarnacion put all of their proverbial chips in the middle of the table.

It’ll put Encarnacion, who turns 34 on Saturday, in the middle of the Indians’ lineup for at least the next three seasons as he takes Mike Napoli’s spot on the roster. Napoli was universally praised for his production in the regular season and his presence in the Indians’ clubhouse. Encarnacion has been one of the best sluggers in baseball and one of the most productive hitters in the game over the past five seasons. As his price tag dropped due to a saturated market and the draft-pick compensation tied to his name, the Indians jumped at the chance to upgrade the middle of their lineup.

Since 2012, Encarnacion ranks second in baseball both home runs (193) and RBI (550). His wRC+ of 146 in that time ranks him seventh in the game, per FanGraphs. He had a wRC+ of 134 in 2016, which would have been the best mark in the Indians’ lineup. He’s also been among the most consistent, hitting at least 34 home runs, driving in at least 98 runs and finishing in the top-18 in wRC+ in each of the past five seasons.

He also belted the memorable, walk-off home run in the 2016 AL Wild Card Game against Baltimore’s Ubaldo Jimenez, sending the Blue Jays to the American League Division Series, where they defeated the Texas Rangers before losing to the Indians in the ALCS.

Along with the Michael Brantley, who is recovering from surgery to repair biceps tendinitis, the Indians look to have added some significant punch to the middle of their lineup, which ranked second in the American League with 777 runs scored.

Akron Beacon Journal LOADED: 01.06.2017

Marla Ridenour: Family played huge part in slugger Edwin Encarnacion’s decision to choose Indians

By Marla Ridenour

CLEVELAND: As Edwin Encarnacion’s jersey presentation ended Thursday in the Indians’ clubhouse, a man said, “God bless you, my son.”

Presumably that voice was his father, Elpidio, part of the group watching that also included Encarnacion’s mother, Mireya Rivera, brothers Julio and Richard, sister Evelin and his son, Edwin Jr., 8.

As the Indians announced the biggest free-agent signing in franchise history, owner Paul Dolan deserves praise for the three-year, $60 million commitment that includes a club option for 2020 as the Tribe goes all out to capture a championship.

But after the news conference ended, the day was all about family.

And not just Encarnacion’s relatives, many from his native Dominican Republic, who glowed over the former Toronto Blue Jays slugger’s choice. He said he brought them together to discuss his options, just as he did to tell them the news of his major-league call-up by the Cincinnati Reds in 2005.

“Everybody in my country feels very good and I feel very good,” said Elpidio, a former decathlete who said he competed in the 1975 Pan Am Games against Bruce Jenner. “This is my new home. I believe they have everything to win the World Series.”

Impossible to overlook were the reactions of his new teammates, the pre-decision input of Indians manager Terry Francona, and how big a part Encarnacion’s son played in his dad’s destination.

The quote of the day came from Encarnacion when he recalled the phone calls he received from Carlos Santana and Francisco Lindor. The excitement of Tribe shortstop Lindor, who became close friends with Encarnacion when they both lived in Puerto Rico before high school, made the biggest impression.

“Lindor was the best. I can see the smile from my phone,” Encarnacion said.

“He said, ‘I can’t believe it. That’s right?’ I say, ‘Yes, that’s true.’ It made me feel great.”

Catcher Yan Gomes surrendered his No. 10 to first baseman/designated hitter Encarnacion, who explained how their texts went.

“[Gomes] sent me a text and said, ‘No. 10 is on the table. What you got for me?’ ” Encarnacion said. “I said, ‘Don’t worry. We’ll see you in spring training and see what gift you are going to get.’ ”

The reward may be generous, since the Indians said Encarnacion committed to donating $100,000 annually to charities in the Dominican and Cleveland.

Perhaps No. 2 in Encarnacion’s mind, behind the guaranteed money and a contract that includes rare attendance bonuses, may have been the Indians’ stacked roster. They reached Game 7 of the World Series against the Chicago Cubs with starting pitchers Carlos Carrasco and Danny Salazar and outfielder Michael Brantley sidelined with injuries.

The fact that the Indians were closer to the Dominican Republic than other teams in the running, including the Texas Rangers and late-arriving Oakland A’s, also played a part.

“This is one of the closest families you’ll ever see,” Encarnacion’s agent, Paul Kinzer, said. “This is a huge thing for him. His son is in school in the Dominican, [and] it’s the time zone for watching the games, too. Believe it or not, that’s a consideration. He wants his son to be able to watch him. You can see how close they are.”

Encarnacion called his son “unbelievable” and described him as “the one person I love in this world.” Encarnacion touted his baseball skills, saying his hitting will soon be seen at Progressive Field. Edwin Jr. might turn out to be the Tribe’s most beloved bat boy since Chris Burks, son of Ellis Burks.

Elpidio’s vow to make Cleveland their second home was likely not idle talk. According to a story on Sportsnet.ca.com, Encarnacion’s brother Julio lived with him in Toronto and Evelin managed his non-baseball affairs from Florida.

As Elpidio has traveled around the Dominican since the deal came together Dec. 22, he’s also heard comments about his son teaming up with Francona.

“Francona, great leader, I like it. In my country, everybody knows Francona from Boston,” Elpidio said.

Asked how persuasive Francona was when he spoke to Encarnacion, Kinzer said, “He respects him tremendously. That’s your boss for the next three or four years. It was huge.”

Encarnacion also consulted Red Sox designated hitter David Ortiz about Francona.

Francona wanted Encarnacion to join the tight-knit Tribe clubhouse, but Encarnacion said he had not made up his mind.

“Not yet, but I was thinking about it,” he said. “When you talk to a guy like Francona, a lot of things can happen.”

A lot of things did happen in a span of two or three days, as Kinzer said, as the Indians added a right-handed power hitter who has been the second-most prolific in baseball over the last five years.

But as the Encarnacions proved Thursday, the Tribe family grew by more than just one.

Akron Beacon Journal LOADED: 01.06.2017

Cleveland Indians would love to see Edwin Encarnacion cash in on attendance clauses

Paul Hoynes, cleveland.com

CLEVELAND, Ohio a Agent Paul Kinzer said the attendance clauses in Edwin Encarnacion's three-year $60 million deal with the Indians helped push negotiations across the finish line.

"That was a way to bridge the gap," said Kinzer.

Progressive Field is beautiful. No argument there.

Over the last two years or so it's been reworked to a smaller, hipper ballpark. But if a free agent is looking to cash in on attendance clauses, he might want to call Fenway Park or AT&T Park home instead unpacking at the corner of Carnegie and Ontario.

The Indians have had four straight winning seasons. Last year they went to Game 7 of the World Series, but when it comes to putting fannies in the seats, they're still regarded as a rumor in Cleveland. They haven't drawn two million or more fans since 2008. The last time they topped three million was 2001.

Kinzer can read attendance figures as well as the next guy, but he saw the fans come back to the Blue Jays in Toronto, where Encarnacion spent the last 7 1/2 seasons. Could it happen in Cleveland as well?

"When Edwin went on his run five years ago, of course he had help, Toronto was drawing 1.9 million." said Kinzer. "Now they're drawing 3.4 million.

"It wasn't one guy in Toronto, but he was a big part of it. Team chemistry had a lot to do with it as well. And they have that kind of team chemistry here. I think it (attendance) can be re-energized from the World Series and with what Edwin brings.

"He's not a flashy guy, that's not him. But the fans in Toronto loved him. He just goes out and grinds every day. I think the people in Cleveland will love him. This is a blue collar town and he's a blue collar guy."

The run Kinzer is talking about featured Encarnacion averaging 39 homers and 110 RBI per season over the last five years.

Jon Heyman of Fan Rag Sports reported that Encarnacion can earn close to $1 million a year in attendance clauses. Chris Antonetti, Indians president of baseball operations, confirmed that there are attendance clauses in the contract, but it's clear the bulk of Encarnacion's paycheck is coming from his base pay and signing bonus.

Encarnacion is guaranteed $55 million over the first three years of the deal. That includes a $5 million signing bonus and an estimated annual salary of $16.7 million. The deal includes a $25 million club option for 2020. If the option isn't exercised, Encarnacion gets a $5 million buyout.

Kinzer said the idea of an attendance clause came up during numerous conversations with Antonetti.

"Like I said when Edwin went on that run with Toronto, they were at 1.9 million in attendance and now they're at 3.4 million," said Kinzer. "Well, if Edwin contributes to that, he should be rewarded for it.

"To tell you the truth, we didn't even know if we could do it. I threw it out there and Chris had to call (the commissioner's office). He called back and said we can do it."

The Indians and Texas were the teams that never let Encarnacion out of their sights this offseason. But when Oakland jumped in at the last minute on Dec. 22, the A's almost wooed him.

Little Mermaid, Santa can't stop Tribe from getting Encarnacion

"Billy Beane offered $25 million a year, two years guaranteed" said Kinzer. "They offered Edwin an opt after the first year and a club option for a third year. That opened Edwin's eyes.

"A big part of it was that Billy told us it wasn't going to be a sign and trade. Billy said I want to sign him to help us get to the next level quicker. So at that point everything with the Indians and Rangers started cranking up. They had to come up some and we had to go down some."

The Indians increased their offer. Perhaps that's when the attendance clauses came into play. Not only did Encarnacion like the talent on the Indians, but geography played a part as well. It's a long flight between Cleveland and the Dominican Republic, but it's even longer flight between Oakland and the Dominican.

Several of Encarnacion's family attended Thursday's press conference.

"You can see how close his family is," said Kinzer. "His son is in the Dominican and it's a four-hour time difference between there and Oakland. His son wouldn't be able to watch him on TV.

"The flights are closer between the Dominican and Cleveland as well. So that was a big consideration."

Cleveland Plain Dealer LOADED: 01.06.2017

The Cleveland Indians thought they stood no chance at landing Edwin Encarnacion, and then everything fell into place

Zack Meisel, cleveland.com

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- About halfway through the second act of "The Little Mermaid," Chris Antonetti's phone battery tapped out.

Thankfully for the Indians, Antonetti had wrapped up much of the final negotiating with Edwin Encarnacion's agent, Paul Kinzer. The two had texted throughout the play and Antonetti even stepped out twice to take a phone call. Then, shortly after a rendition of "Under The Sea," Antonetti's phone took its last gasp.

"I was done," Antonetti said. "That was it. At that point, all that I had left was the performance."

It was just one, final hurdle for what proved to be an ever-evolving month of negotiations and persuasions. When free agency commenced, the Indians thought they stood no chance to sign Encarnacion. He would be too expensive. The projected payroll would make ownership too uncomfortable. This wasn't going to work.

But by the start of "Part of Your World," Antonetti had landed perhaps the biggest fish in the free-agent sea. The Indians have guaranteed Encarnacion at least $60 million. That number could escalate if the team reaches certain attendance heights or if the club exercises his option for the 2020 campaign.

These are uncharted waters for the franchise, a stranger to such financial territory. The Indians went 19 years between World Series appearances, so it makes sense. The ultimate decision emerged once the organization considered the potential for ticket sales and fan interest in addition to the extra muscle in the middle of the batting order. It took some convincing.

Edwindians: Tribe signs slugger

This doesn't change the Indians' modus operandi, though. Paul Dolan might have loosened the monetary shackles a bit, but this isn't going to trigger some new, free-spending spirit. If Encarnacion didn't come to Cleveland, the Indians' payroll probably wouldn't have jumped like it did on Thursday morning. And Antonetti admitted that the marquee signing will likely prevent the club from dishing out much more cash this winter.

Indians' Edwin Encarnacion: 'We can win the World Series'

Encarnacion even said he was somewhat surprised by the Indians' initial involvement.

"But I know that they want to win and I know that I'm the perfect fit," he said.

Antonetti and general manager Mike Chernoff have discovered a way to operate aggressively at junctures like these, while still abiding by ownership's strict financial limits. They dealt for Ubaldo Jimenez and Andrew Miller. They nearly acquired Jonathan Lucroy.

Now, they added a soft-spoken guy with a giant gold watch and a powerful swing to a talent-rich roster a couple of months removed from a World Series appearance.

They couldn't do that -- especially with a meager payroll -- without years of assembling and developing talent. The Indians have capitalized on past trades and player progress (think Corey Kluber and Carlos Carrasco) and improved drafting (think Francisco Lindor and Cody Allen). They locked up many of those young players to long-term, below-market-value contracts. They still have a few guys -- Lindor and Jose Ramirez -- earning the league minimum.

Everything set the stage for that late December evening, when Antonetti ventured to the Lakewood theater, Chernoff spent time with family in New Jersey and Kinzer enjoyed some rides at Six Flags. This was the Indians' one chance to strike, to get out of their element.

The signing gives some credibility to ownership's past statements about stepping up financially when most sensible. Perhaps one timely addition won't wipe away past missed opportunities, but this certainly inches the Indians closer to a World Series triumph, and such a feat would place all history forever in the rearview.

Six things to know about Encarnacion's signing

If anything, Encarnacion's arrival is refreshing. That's the term Chernoff used to describe such a momentous day for the franchise. Two hours before the Indians announced plans for a Billy Joel summer concert at Progressive Field, Encarnacion brought his herd -- his brothers, his parents and his son -- to the ballpark as he met with reporters and posed in his new uniform.

Antonetti could finally leave his phone on silent.

"As we headed into the offseason, we didn't expect to have these types of resources," Chernoff said. "We've always had faith that ownership would be willing to support us in the right moment. This is one of those moments."

Cleveland Plain Dealer LOADED: 01.06.2017

Edwin Encarnacion deal is a big signing and a big referendum -- Bud Shaw's Sports Spin

Bud Shaw, cleveland.com

CLEVELAND, Ohio - Edwin Encarnacion turns 34 Saturday. He'll play his final season of a guaranteed $60 million deal at age 36.

That's not why Indians GM Chris Antonetti repeatedly referred to the Encarnacion signing Thursday as a "leap of faith." Not even close.

Encarnacion, one of baseball's most consistent power hitters, is more than the Indians' new cleanup man. His signing amounts to a referendum on Cleveland as a baseball town.

The Indians are betting on themselves to warrant season-long attention and chase another pennant. But even more they're betting on you.

They're betting - maybe hoping is more accurate -- that acquiring baseball's top free-agent hitter will make a significant difference at the box office, where a year ago they ranked 28th in MLB attendance.

It's been a long time since the Indians put together this kind of lineup, even longer since they went hunting for a fish as big as Encarnacion.

It's also been a long time (2011) since they ranked anywhere except 28th or 29th in attendance. In case you didn't know, there are 30 MLB teams.

The '90s aren't coming back, not at the turnstile or in the luxury suite sales office. No sense pining for the Dick Jacobs years. He was no more inclined - even less so, actually -- to outspend his means than the Dolans have been.

Indians make a big move in signing Edwin Encarnacion.

This is about a team and a town reminded of each other's best traits last October needing to keep the fire burning.

Antonetti called Encarnacion's signing ownership's "bet on our organization that we can drive the revenue (sufficiently) for this to make sense."

The Indians don't want to let the passion subside. Encarnacion is that surprise Lexus in the driveway with the oversized bow.

Antonetti admitted the offer to Encarnacion took "quite a bit of deliberation" by the Dolans.

Indians' Edwin Encarnacion: 'We can win the World Series'

He didn't have to say why. The money is not just significant by small- or mid-market standards. It's telling that Encarnacion can reach additional bonuses based on attendance.

"It's not a huge percentage," Antonetti said Thursday while Encarnacion posed for pictures and conducted interviews in the Indians' clubhouse. "He'll earn most of his money in base salary."

Antonetti said the initial surge in the ticket office following all that October drama wasn't enough by itself to make a deal this size. Market forces made Encarnacion more affordable, but doing the deal for the Indians was a projection on future earnings from ticket sales.

Encarnacion's "perfect fit," as Antonetti called it, made that projection more palatable. They didn't just sign a great hitter. They put a consistently great hitter in the middle of a productive and versatile lineup, whether Michael Brantley returns to his best form or not.

The Indians should be good, damn good. Will it be enough to drive crowds to Progressive Field all summer long?

The last time the Indians averaged over 20,000 fans in consecutive seasons was 2009. The last time they ranked in the Top 15 was 2002 (12th) when they averaged 32,307.

You can lay all that on the Dolans if you insist. It's hardly fair.

But now it doesn't matter.

The World Series changed the landscape for the Indians. They embraced that with a big swing (and hit) in free agency.

Now we see if baseball in Cleveland can be a continuation of October's group hug.

Cleveland Plain Dealer LOADED: 01.06.2017

Six things we know about Cleveland Indians' Edwin Encarnacion and his parrot

Paul Hoynes, cleveland.com

CLEVELAND, Ohio - Edwin Encarnacion made it to Cleveland from Toronto, but what about the parrot?

You know the invisible parrot that rides on Encarnacion's right arm as he rounds the bases after hitting a home run? Did Encarnacion's feathered friend make the trip as well?

"We've got to ask at Immigration," said Encarnacion with a laugh. "But yes, yes, yes."

The story behind Edwin Encarnacion's parrot

All right, now that the big news is out of the way, here are five other things you need to know following Thursday's announcement that Encarnacion's three-year $60 million with the Indians is official.

No. 1: Encarnacion's deal includes attendance clauses.

Encarnacion can earn a bonus depending on the Tribe's attendance for each year of the contract. The Indians finished 28th in attendance last season and have not drawn 2 million or more fans since 2008.

Safe to say, EE's drawining power will be put to the test.

No. 2: No World Baseball Classic for Encarnacion?

Encarnacion indicated that he will not play for the Dominican Republic in the WBC because he wants to get to know his new team and teammates during spring training. The WBC runs from March 6 through March 22.

No. 3: Encarnacion will leave the managing to Terry Francona.

He said loves to hit cleanup, but he quickly added that where he hits in the lineup is up to Francona. He had the same answer for whether he prefers to play first or DH.

Indians' Edwin Encarnacion: 'We can win the World Series'

No. 4: Chris Antonetti says thank you.

Antonetti, Indians president of baseball operations, thanked Indians ownership for making the signing of Encarnacion possible.

"Their extraordinary and continued support of our team made this happen," said Antonetti. "Quite frankly at the start of the offseason we did not think this would be possible becomes of the economic commitment it would take to sign Edwin. But they made a leap of faith."

No. 5: How did Encarnacion end up with Yan Gomes' number?

Encarnacion will wear No. 10, the number he wore in Toronto. Gomes, a former teammate of Encarnacion in Toronto, wore No. 10 with the Indians.

"One of the first texts I received after I agreed with the Indians was from Yan Gomes," said Encarnacion. "He said, 'No. 10 is on the table. So what have you got for me?' I said, 'Don't worry. I'll see you in spring training and see what gift you're going to get.'"

No. 6: If you can't beat 'em, join 'em.

When the Indians beat Toronto in the ALCS in five games in October to reach the World Series, Encarnacion was watching. In fact, it was one of the reasons he decided to sign with the Tribe.

"It was one of the things that went into the decision to come here," said Encarnacion. "I know they have great young talent and players. I know they're going to be good for a long time.

"That's why I came here. I believe in this team and I know we can win the World Series with the talent we have."

Cleveland Plain Dealer LOADED: 01.06.2017

Why does Edwin Encarnacion's new Cleveland Indians emoji include a parrot?

Joe Noga, January 05, 2017

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- When the Cleveland Indians signed Edwin Encarnacion to a three-year contract worth $60 million, the club apparently also adopted a colorfully feathered (figurative) pet.

Encarnacion's notorious "walking the parrot" home run celebration was a fan sensation during his playing time in Toronto, and the slugger confirmed it will make the transition to Cleveland after his signing was officially announced this week.

When asked if the parrot would be crossing the Canadian border with him, Encarnacion laughed and replied "I have to ask immigration."

Immediately, the Tribe's social media accounts began sharing a new Encarnacion emoji that includes a parrot on the infielder's shoulder.

Edwin Encarnacion's new Cleveland Indians emoji includes a parrot on his right shoulder. (Image via @Indians on Twitter)

But where did "walking the parrot" come from? Does the parrot have a name? (Yes, it's Eddie) How soon before we see parrot paraphernalia at Progressive Field?

According to parrot lore, Encarnacion crushed a grand slam during an April 2012 game in Seattle, and celebrated by holding his bent right arm parallel to the ground as he rounded the bases.

His teammates and Blue Jays fans picked up on it, and the signature move stuck. He's hit more than 180 home runs since then, and the #Edwing has been a part of every trot.

Eventually more and more Blue Jays fans caught on, creating GIFs and memes featuring a parrot perched on Encarnacion's bent right wing. Stuffed parrots made their way into the dugout and the stands at Rogers Centre, and the slugger's following started to resemble more of a Jimmy Buffet concert crowd than one could reasonably explain.

Just reminded of how great Edwin Encarnacion's walking the parrot is: pic.twitter.com/WSe9QH1w4m

-- Laura Mitchell (@medieval_laura) August 27, 2015

Indians Assistant Director of Communications, Joel Hammond, said Encarnacion's official Tribe emoji comes straight from Major League Baseball's customized keyboard app, MLB Clubhouse.

The app gives fans the ability to share custom keyboard emojis, GIFs and stickers of their favorite teams and players via social media and text.

Cleveland Plain Dealer LOADED: 01.06.2017

Cleveland Indians' Edwin Encarnacion and the perfect storm: Bill Livingston

Bill Livingston, The Plain Dealer

CLEVELAND, Ohio - This must be what living large like the New York Yankees feels like.

Never mind that little moue of distaste you just made with your lips when you read that sentence. Hate is closely related to envy when the subject is the Yankees and their ability to buy championships.

The Cleveland Indians would look good in pinstripes today.

It's not really the '90s again

This is what a perfect storm of circumstances whipped up for the Indians, defending American League champions and new employers of the top prize on the free agency market, former Toronto Blue Jays slugger Edwin Encarnacion,

Introduced at a Thursday morning news conference, Encarnacion is the Indians' biggest acquisition since Roberto Alomar came over from the Baltimore Orioles to play with his brother Sandy and form a dream double-play combination with Omar Vizquel in the 1990s.

The Indians were able to conduct themselves as a big market team at the time, because the opening of Progressive (nee, Jacobs) Field heralded an era when ballpark revenue and not cable television money separated the have's and have-not's.

Those days are not back again, for all that it feels as if they are.

All factors were aligned

First of all, Encarnacion's defense is no more than adequate. Alomar was a future Hall of Famer for both his glove and bat.

The Encarnacion deal got done because the Indians had the cash after reaching the World Series, although they needed a fife, drum and a few bloody bandages for the team picture.

The best position player, Michael Brantley, was out, effectively, for the season. Two starting pitchers (Danny Salazar and Carlos Carrasco) were down. Another, Trevor Bauer, was injured while playing with his toy firetruck.

Scratch that. While playing with his drone. But it's pretty much the same thing.

Almost no one thought the Indians would sign Encarnacion, but they took the plunge when the market declined for sluggers, in part because of Tribe manager Terry Francona's magisterial use of a deep bullpen in the playoffs.

The fixed costs were controlled with young players such as Francisco Lindor, Jason Kipnis and Jose Ramirez under contract. The nearly unhittable reliever, Andrew Miller, will be here for two more seasons, too.

While Encarnacion will be 34 this Saturday, the deal makes sense at $60 million for three years because it is a relatively short one. For his part, Encarnacion is coming off the best run of his career as a run producer.

His acquisition makes the Indians huge favorites in the weak AL Central Division, which the Tribe treated as their personal speed bag last season with a 49-26 record within it.

His bittersweet October

The only worry might be like his predecessor, Mike Napoli, at first base and designated hitter, he cools off in October.

Encarnacion hit only 4 for 19, .211, against the Indians in the American League Championship Series, with only one extra base hit, a double. But before that Encarnacion homered in three of his first four playoff games against Baltimore and Texas.

The loser in the Toronto-Baltimore wild-card game on a three-run walk-off home run in the 11th inning was erratic former Indians starter Ubaldo Jimenez. Indians fans got to know the ka-booms and busts of Jimenez all too well.

The guy who hit the homer was Encarnacion. Fans here are happy to make his acquaintance.

Cleveland Plain Dealer LOADED: 01.06.2017

Cleveland Indians double down with Edwin Encarnacion, fans start to respond -- Terry Pluto

By Terry Pluto, The Plain Dealer

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- I still find it hard to believe.

The Cleveland Indians go to Game 7 of the World Series...

Then sign Edwin Encarnacion...

And the payroll will jump from about $95 million to $135 million...

The Indians will introduce Encarnacion at a press a conference Thursday. He signed a three-year deal worth about $60 million with an option year for another $20 million. The contract is a bit complicated, but the bottom line is $60 million guaranteed.

That's the largest contract ever given out by the Tribe. The previous was $54 million over four years to Nick Swisher in 2013.

I've written before how the Indians wisely played the market, signing Encarnacion for a deal smaller than many projections.

Encarnacion turns 34 on Saturday. It's possible his production will decline.

But I remember something John Hart told me in 1994. The former Tribe general manager had just signed 38-year-old Eddie Murray and 40-year-old Dennis Martinez as the Indians were preparing to move into the new Jacobs Field.

"I know they are older," he said. "But 75 percent of those guys in their primes is better than most of what we have now."

Over the last three seasons, Encarnacion batted .269 (.905 OPS), averaging 38 HR and 112 RBI.

He missed only two games last season, splitting time between DH and first base.

Suppose Hart's 75 percent rule takes hold, and Encarnacion averages 29 homers and 95 RBI over the next three years.

The Indians will take that with a smile and a thank you.

KANSAS CITY MODEL

The Dolan ownership has made a major move with this signing.

Part of it is because they had a savory taste of the World Series. And part of it is they believe the fans will show up.

Let's look at the Tribe and another Central Division team that reached the World Series the previous two years -- Kansas City.

Year Team Record (playoffs) Avg. Attn. MLB rank

2013 Indians 92-70 (wild card) 19,668 28th

2013 Royals 86-76 21,614 26th

2014 Indians 85-77 18,426 29th

2014 Royals 89-73 (World Series) 24,154 25th

2015 Indians 81-80 17,806 29th

2015 Royals 95-67 (WS champs) 33,438 10th

2016 Indians 94-68 (World Series) 19,650 28th

2016 Royals 81-81 31,576 12th

The Royals ranked only 25th in attendance in 2014, the year they surprised all of baseball by reaching the World Series.

It was the year after the World Series appearance -- 2015 -- that attendance soared. The Royals went from No. 25 to No. 10.

They reached the World Series again in 2015.

The enthusiasm from back-to-back appearances in the World Series helped the Royals rank No. 12 in attendance in 2016, despite a disappointing 81-81 record.

In some ways, the Tribe modeled their team after the Royals. They became younger and more athletic. Their defense improved. They were powered by a strong bullpen in the postseason, leading to the World Series.

They Royals were on a road like that in 2014 and 2015.

In 2014, the Royals had about 8,000 season ticket holders when they reached the World Series. That was when they averaged 24,154 fans.

In 2015, the Royals had more than 12,000 season ticket holders, according to the Kansas City Star.

In 2016, it was more than 13,000.

Here's what we know about the Indians:

In 2016, they had about 7,500 season ticket holders. That number has been stagnant for several years.

They are now above 10,000, based on what I've been told. Perhaps they will reach the same 12,000 level as the Royals did in their first season after reaching the World Series.

DOUBLING DOWN

If the Indians had failed to bring in someone such as Encarnacion, I doubt the ticket demand would be this high.

Ownership and the front office wisely seized the moment. In October, Cleveland became a Tribe Town again with the team's wonderful ride in the postseason.

The increased spending really began at the end of July. That was when president Chris Antonetti and general manager Mike Chernoff engineered a trade for star reliever Andrew Miller.

The lefty added $3 million to the 2016 payroll. He is paid $9 million annually in the next two seasons.

In addition to Encarnacion ($18 million), the Indians highest-paid players for 2017 are Carlos Santana ($12 million), Jason Kipnis ($9 million), Miller ($9 million), Michael Brantley ($8.3 million), Corey Kluber ($7.7 million), Cody Allen ($7.7 million estimate) and Carlos Carrasco ($6.5 million).

It would have been nice for the Indians to keep Rajai Davis. The outfielder is expected to sign with Oakland for $6 million.

They probably could have brought back Davis and Mike Napoli for less than the $18 million they will pay Encarnacion this season.

But the idea wasn't simply to return with the same team, but work (and spend) to have a better one.

It was both a smart and bold move.

So far, fans seem intrigued by the Tribe, and that could lead to some fun and crowded nights at Progressive Field this season.

Cleveland Plain Dealer LOADED: 01.05.2017

Cleveland Indians handle final details of Edwin Encarnacion's contract before Thursday's unveiling

By Paul Hoynes, cleveland.com

CLEVELAND, Ohio - While Edwin Encarnacion was going through his physical Wednesday - these things are all-day affairs when the Indians are involved - President Chris Antonetti and GM Mike Chernoff were going through the last details of Encarnacion's three-year, $60 million contract with agent Paul Kinzer.

The first three years of the deal, all guaranteed, are worth $55 million. It includes a $5 million signing bonus. The deal is back loaded, but not by much.

The club option for 2020 is worth $25 million if the Indians exercise it. If not, Encarnacion will receive a $5 million buyout.

So the guaranteed portion of the deal is worth $60 million. If the Indians exercise the option, it will be worth $80 million, matching the offer Encarnacion turned down from Toronto.

There had been conflicting reports of how much the guaranteed portion of Encarnacion's contract was worth.

The Indians are expected to introduce Encarnacion at a press conference Thursday at 10:15 a.m. at Progressive Field. Encarnacion was at The Q on Wednesday night to watch the Cavs play the Bulls.

Encarnacion arrives for physical

The $60 million contract is the largest in team history, surpassing Travis Hafner's three-year, $57 million extension and Nick Swisher's four-year, $56 million offer.

The Indians reached agreement with Encarnacion on Dec. 22, but it was not without drama. Oakland made a late entry into the bidding and almost came away with him. Billy Beane, Oakland's executive vice president of baseball operations, offered Encarnacion a two-year deal that included an opt out after the first year and a club option for the third year. He also offered Encarnacion a straight two-year deal for "much more money,'' according to Kinzer.

In Kinzer's words, the Indians "sweetened the deal" after Oakland made its run.

"Chris made it obvious that he really wanted him," said Kinzer. "They put everything they could on the table. Edwin liked that team and he liked a lot of the players on the team. He thought it was the right fit."

Encarnacion deal reached under unusual circumstances

With all deals there are risks as the track records of Hafner and Swisher show, but Encarnacion joins the Indians after five seasons as one of baseball's most consistent power hitters. Last season he hit .263 (158-for-601) with 42 homers and 127 RBI. The 127 RBI tied Encarnacion with David Ortiz for the AL lead.

"He's an All-Star caliber middle-of-the-order bat," said Alex Anthopoulos, Toronto's former general manager. "For the last five years, he has had an OPS in the .900s or high .800s.

"How many power hitters don't strike out a lot? He has always shown good ability to make contact. He showed that at a young age."

Encarnacion, 34 on Saturday, has struck out more than 100 times in a season only twice in his career. The second came last season when he struck out a career-high 138 times in a career-high 601 at-bats.

The right-handed hitting Encarnacion will share first base and DH with Carlos Santana.

Cleveland Plain Dealer LOADED: 01.05.2017

Edwin Encarnacion, from E5 to Steady Eddie, has always combined contact and power Paul Hoynes, cleveland.com CLEVELAND, Ohio - Former Toronto Blue Jay Edwin Encarnacion wasn't always the Edwin Encarnacion who agreed to a three-year, $60 million contract with the Indians just before Christmas. The power-hitting first baseman you see now - who circles the bases after hitting a home run with his right arm bent to form what some say is a perch for his invisible parrot - came to Toronto in 2009 at the July 31 trading deadline as a warm body. Somebody to balance the books so the Reds could get Scott Rolen's bat and the Blue Jays could land pitchers Zach Stewart and Josh Roenicke. The Reds wanted Rolen as much for his bat as his leadership. The Blue Jays wanted Stewartand Roenicke, especially Stewart, because they were pitching short. The deal hinged on the Jays taking Encarnacion and the estimated $5 million left on his contract because the Reds couldn't handle all of the $11 million owed Rolen. "He was a salary dump in the deal," said Alex Anthopoulos, Toronto's assistant GM at the time. Encarnacion was a figure on a ledger to make the bottom line work. For a while he played like it. Power was never a problem. Encarnacion hit 15 homers in 406 at-bats for the Reds as a 23 year old in 2006. Two years later, in 2008, he hit 26 homers in 146 games as Cincinnati's everyday third baseman. Just before the 2009 season, the Reds signed him to a two-year, $7.6 million deal to avoid arbitration. By the end of July in 2009, however, Encarnacion was hitting .209 (29-for-139) with five homers and 16 RBI. His left wrist hurt and would eventually need surgery and his defense, especially on throws to first, was unpredictable. When the Reds, one year away from winning the NL Central, decided they needed a change at third, Encarnacion was gone.

His struggles continued in Toronto, where he earned the nickname E5 to go along with the more melodious Steady Eddie and EE. He hit .240 with eight homers following the trade, but after opening the 2010 season with the Blue Jays, he was sent to the minors at the end of April. He returned in mid-May and posted a solid season, hitting .244 (81-for-332) with 21 homers, 51 RBI and a .787 OPS. Money, however, was about to redirect his career once again. Anthopoulos, who replaced J.P. Riccardi as GM in 2010, talked to Encarnacion and his agent, Paul Kinzer, during the season. He wanted Encarnacion to move to first base. Chris Antonetti, Indians president of baseball operations, on whether or not Edward Encarnacion is beyond their reach, "You don't have to curb expectations." "He had good hands, he was athletic and there was upside in the bat," said Anthopoulos, currently the Dodgers' vice president of baseball operations. Encarnacion told Anthopoulos that wasn't ready to make the move and still considered himself a third baseman. Anthopoulos was ready for that answer. "We told him we weren't going to wait until the tender deadline in December to let him get to free agency," said Anthopoulos. "His defensive issues at third were well documented. We felt confident that if he went on the free agent market, most people would say, 'We love your bat, but we'd rather have you at first base or DH than third."' Encarnacion was designated for assignment in November of 2010. Oakland claimed him on waivers on Nov. 12, but non-tendered him because they didn't want to pay him $7 million to $8 million in arbitration and couldn't work out another deal. On Dec. 16, the Blue Jays re-signed him to a one-year, $2.5 million deal with an option. It couldn't have worked out better for Toronto. "We said, 'Go out and see what's out there,'" said Anthopoulos. "If you find a home at third base and that's where your heart is, fine. If not come back to us. "When we talked to him (after he was non-tendered by Oakland) we said, 'Now that you've tested the free agent market are you prepared to play first base?' He said yes and we engaged him on a one-year contract with a club option." Encarnacion hit .272 (131-for-481) with 17 homers and 55 RBI in 2011. In the process, he learned how to play first base and became more selective at the plate. He hit just six homers going into the All-Star break, but 11 in the second half after the Jays asked him to swing at better pitches. In 2012, Toronto's vision for Encarnacion finally showed itself. He hit .280 (152-for-542) with 42 homers, 110 RBI and a .941 OPS. It was the start of a five-year roll that has brought him to Cleveland this week for his physical on Wednesday and Thursday's anticipated press conference to make the signing official. Slugging first baseman Edwin Encarnacion is in Cleveland this week to take his physical and finalize his three-year $60 million deal with the Indians. "His No.1 liability at third base was throwing," said Anthopoulos. "You're eliminating the throw across the diamond with the move to first base. Maybe, without the pressure and defensive demands of third base, mentally he might have been freed up. But he had already shown some pretty good offensive performance as a young player." Encarnacion, 34 on Saturday, was born in the Dominican Republic. Texas was able to draft him in the ninth round in 2000 because he was living with his mother in Puerto Rico. The Dominican is not subject to the MLB draft. "People like to say he came out of nowhere, but he was a highly-touted prospect at a young age," said Anthopoulos. "Cincinnati thought enough of him to give him a two-year contract. He had some issues at third base and with his wrist. His career just stalled a bit." Former Indians third baseman Brook Jacoby was hitting coach in Cincinnati from 2007 until Encarnacion was traded in 2009. He's held the same position with the Blue Jays since 2014. Two things have impressed Jacoby -- Encarnacion's ability to make contact and drive in runs. In an age when no one seems to care how many times a power hitter strikes out, Encarnacion consistently puts the ball in play. "He was pretty much a free swinger as a kid," said Jacoby. "In Toronto, he found himself." In the last five years, when Encarnacion has averaged 39 homers and 110 RBI per season, his 138 strikeouts last season are the only time he's struck out more than 100 times. In his career, he's struck out more than 100 or more times just twice in 12 years. Encarnacion has a career .352 on-base percentage and in the last five years it has never been below .354. In 2013, he had more walks (82) than strikeouts (62), while hitting 36 homers and driving in 104 runs. "It's impressive that for the most part every season he's been below 100 strikeouts," said Jacoby, "while hitting that many homers and driving in the runs that he does. He sits in a zone. If it's not there, and he's going good, he doesn't swing at it.'' Like many traditional stats, RBI have been shoved into a dark corner right next to wins by starting pitchers. There are too many outside influences to say a hitter is a consistent RBI man. Still, the thought of hitting Encarnacion in the No.4 spot with Carlos Santana, Jason Kipnis and Francisco Lindor in front of him and Jose Ramirez and Michael Brantley behind presents enticing images. "You put some guys around him, make them pitch to him -- he'll take his walks, don't get me wrong -- but in an RBI situation he has a knack for getting it done," said Jacoby. "As little value as they put on the RBI anymore, for me, there's a big value to that. He's going to get the run in from third anyway he can." Jacoby has watched Encarnacion drive in 98, 111 and 127 runs in the last three seasons. He's a .270 (360-for-1,334) hitter with runners in scoring position in his career. Over the last five years, he's hitting .276 (180-for-652) with 48 homers and 336 RBI with RISP. "He's one of the rare power hitters who makes a lot of contact," said Anthopoulos. "It's hard to find that. Normally, you're sacrificing one for the other." Encarnacion will replace Mike Napoli in the middle of the lineup. Napoli performed well on the field and in the clubhouse last year. While Encarnacion might have to go some to match the ''Party at Napoli's" movement, he has a good reputation as a teammate. When it comes to setting the tone on a team, Mike Napoli gets it. He did it last season for the Indians on the field and in the clubhouse. Now he'll be moving on following the signing of free agent Edwin Encarnacion.

"He's got outstanding makeup," said Jacoby. "He's quiet, but has leadership qualities. Guys go to him. He's just a solid guy to have on your club." Said Kinzer, Encarnacion's agent since the start day one, "If you talk to his managers, general managers and teammates, everybody loves this guy. He's never up or down. He's the same guy every day. All the players love him - Americans, Canadians, Latinos - everybody. That's why they call him Steady Eddie." Edwin Encarnacion after signing with Cleveland Indians: ‘I’m perfect fit for this team’ By Jeff Schudel, The News-Herald & The Morning Journal All the Indians needed to win the 2016 World Series was one run in the ninth inning of Game 7 with the score 6-6 — but they couldn’t come up with one. The Cubs scored twice in the top of the 10th to win the game, 8-7, after the Indians scored once in the bottom of the 10th. The Indians are hopeful they won’t come up short again if the situation arises after signing slugging first baseman Edwin Encarnacion on Jan. 5 to a three-year deal with a club option for 2020. The Indians landed the biggest prize in the offseason last month when slugger Edwin Encarnacion agreed to a contract, but the deal did not become official until Jan. 5 when Encarnacion passed his physical and signed a contract that will keep him in a Tribe uniform through 2019 with a club option through 2020. Encarnacion was introduced to the media during a news conference in a room across from the Indians clubhouse as the winter turned Progressive Field into a snow globe. Advertisement “Everybody knows that Cleveland has one of the best teams in the American League, so I’m happy to be here,” Encarnacion said. “I know I’m the perfect fit for this team, and I know we can do it. I believe in this team and I know we can win the World Series.” The Indians begin their quest to return to the World Series on April 3 when they play the Texas Rangers on the road in their 2017 opener. They open their home season in 96 days on April 11 against the Chicago White Sox. The first three years of the contract are for $65 million. Encarnacion’s agent, Paul Kinzer, who attended the news conference, revealed the contract includes bonus language tied to attendance, without being specific. “When Edwin went on that run five years ago, Toronto was at 1.9 (million) in attendance and now they are at 3.4,” Kinzer said. “Well, if Edwin contributes to that, we should be rewarded for it. If (the Indians) get back to where they were competing every year, which they are, then hopefully it re-energizes the city and we’re all happy.” Encarnacion, 33, has a major-league career batting average of .266 (1,439 for 5,409) with 311 doubles, 310 home runs and 942 RBI in 1,513 games in 12 seasons with the Reds and Blue Jays. He clouted 42 home runs and drove in 127 for the Blue Jays last season. He joins a lineup that scored 777 runs last year — second-most in the American League behind Boston’s 878 runs. “Quite frankly, at the start of the offseason, we didn’t think that this would be possible because of the economic commitment that it would take to sign Edwin, but (owners Larry and Paul Dolan) made a leap of faith,” Indians President Chris Antonetti said. “They (Kinzer and Encarnacion) made a leap of faith in our team — in the belief that we’re a good team that has a chance to compete for a postseason and, hopefully, a World Series. “They also made a bet on our organization that we can drive the revenue and fan support to make this make sense.” Kinzler was with his family at the Six Flags Amusement Park in Atlanta and Antonetti was with his wife and two young daughters watching a live performance of “The Little Mermaid” at Beck Theatre in Lakewood when the deal was consummated via text messaging “somewhere between ‘Under the Sea’ and ‘Part of Your World,’” Antonetti said. “Now, with regards to Edwin, he’s a perfect fit for our team,” Antonetti said. “He’s established himself as one of the most productive offensive players in baseball over the last five years. He’s been remarkably consistent and we feel he’ll impact our team both with his power and the quality of his at-bats. “Within our clubhouse, that’s also an important consideration. As you know, our clubhouse culture is something that’s extraordinarily important to us. Edwin, throughout his time as a player, has earned universal respect from his peers, from everyone throughout the game, for the way he goes about his business and the teammate that he is.” Encarnacion is donating $100,000 to baseball programs in Cleveland and his native country, the Dominican Republic. “I believe when God blesses you with something, that you should pass that blessing along to other people,” Encarnacion said. “Because of the blessing I’ve received from God, I want to share it with the people who need it.” Encarnacion replaces fan favorite Mike Napoli at first base. Napoli hit 34 home runs and drove in 101 runs for the Tribe last year. Encarnacion clouted 42 home runs and drove in 127 for the Blue Jays in 2016. Antonetti said the one regret was not being able to retain Napoli, but to do so made no sense financially for the Indians. Plus, both play first base. Encarnacion will wear No. 10, which was previously worn by catcher Yan Gomes. Gomes will wear 7. Encarnacion said he will not play in the World Baseball Classic. Indians up the ante on offense, officially announce Edwin Encarnacion signing ByChris Assenheimer | The Chronicle-Telegram CLEVELAND — The Indians already own one of the American League’s best pitching staffs. Now, with the addition of slugger Edwin Encarnacion, they may have one of the league’s best offenses, too. That’s a pretty good place to be for a team that made it to Game 7 of the World Series last year. “Everybody knows that Cleveland has one of the best teams in the American League and the best chance to win the World Series,” said Encarnacion, whose signing of a three-year contract worth $65 million was officially announced Thursday morning during a news conference at Progressive Field. “I believe in this team. We can win the World Series. I believe in the talent that we have. “I know that I’m the perfect fit for this team and I know that we can win.” The small-market Indians, who went well above their comfort zone to sign a marquee player to the largest deal in franchise history, clearly felt the same.

“He’s the perfect fit for our team,” team president Chris Antonetti said. “He’s established himself as one of the most productive offensive players in baseball over the last five years. He’s been remarkably consistent and we feel he’ll impact our team both with his power and the quality of his at-bats.” Encarnacion, 33, batted .263 last year, matching a career-high with 42 home runs and reaching a career-best with an AL-leading 127 RBIs. An All-Star three of the past five seasons in Toronto, Encarnacion has hit at least 34 homers while driving in over 100 runs four times in that stretch. The lone season he didn’t reach 100 RBIs was 2014, when he was limited to 128 games and still drove in 98. Encarnacion’s production and status made it an unlikely signing for the Indians this offseason, especially after the free agent turned down a four-year, $80 million offer from his former team. The Indians were listed as one of a number of clubs involved in talks with Encarnacion at the Winter Meetings in early December — something that surprised many, including the player himself. “At the beginning, yes (I was surprised), but I know that they want to win and I know that I’m the perfect fit for this team and I know that we can do it,” Encarnacion said. Negotiations between the Indians and Encarnacion’s agent Paul Kinzer continued until, finally, Cleveland was the last team standing. Indians manager Terry Francona may have played a part. Encarnacion said he had yet to make a decision when he spoke to Francona, the AL’s reigning Manager of the Year, during the negotiating period. “I was thinking about it and when you talk to a guy like Francona, a lot of things can happen,” Encarnacion said. As he has for much of his career, Encarnacion will likely split time at first base and designated hitter and is expected to fill the cleanup spot held last year by Mike Napoli, whom the Indians decided not to re-sign. He will be surrounded by a talented Indians lineup that includes two-time All-Star Jason Kipnis, All-Star shortstop Francisco Lindor, Jose Ramirez — who had a breakout season in 2016 — Carlos Santana, who reached career highs in homers (34) and RBIs (87) last year, and possibly Michael Brantley, an MVP finalist in 2014 who missed nearly all of 2016 with a problematic right shoulder. “I don’t have too many games (at Progressive Field) but I like this stadium to hit,” said Encarnacion, who owns a lifetime .275 batting average with two homers and 11 RBIs in 22 games at Cleveland’s home park. “If I hit cleanup, it’s up to the manager. The manager is going to make that decision and I’m going to be ready for it.” Encarnacion’s contract includes a unique clause. He can reach bonuses based on the team’s attendance. Though the Indians ranked third-to-last in regular-season attendance last year, Kinzer is confident the bonus will be paid, feeling as though his client and new fan base have something in common. “He’s not a flashy guy, that’s not him,” Kinzer said. “But the fans in Toronto loved him. He’s just a quiet guy that goes out and grinds every single day, and I think Cleveland will really love him because this is a blue-collar town and he’s a blue-collar guy.” Contact Chris Assenheimer at 3 Ex-Jays slugger Edwin Encarnacion touches down in Cleveland: Griffin

By Richard GriffinBaseball Columnist

CLEVELAND—On Thursday morning, as he was getting familiar with his new digs at Progressive Field, after having received a huge ovation at the Cavaliers game the night before, Edwin Encarnacion was introduced to the media as the newest and most expensive free-agent signing ever by the Cleveland Indians.

And seeing Edwin pull on the Indians jersey just didn’t seem right; it was like Kevin Durant donning a Golden State Warriors uniform .

“It was pretty hard for me, because I have five, six, seven years in the (Blue Jays) organization,” Encarnacion said. “But I’m moving forward now and I want to say thank you (to the fans) for everything they did for me and the respect.”

The best-case scenario for the Blue Jays — and perhaps for Encarnacion —would have been for him to be back in Toronto. Agent Paul Kinzer said he was a little surprised by the haste with which the Jays went away from Encarnacion, who had averaged 39 homers and 110 RBIs a year over the last five seasons, and signed another designated hitter/first baseman: Kendrys Morales.

When Encarnacion opted to join the Indians, it was Cleveland, Texas and the surprising Oakland A’s who were left in the running. There had been early interest from the Astros.

“He’s a perfect fit for our team,” Indians president Chris Antonetti said. “He’s established himself as one of the most productive offensive players in baseball over the last five years. He’s been remarkably consistent.

“We feel he’ll impact our team both with his power and the quality of his at-bats. Our clubhouse culture is something that’s extraordinarily important to us. Edwin, throughout his time as a player, has earned universal respect from his peers, from everyone throughout the game for the way he goes about his business.”

Encarnacion is going to miss the fans and his teammates in Toronto. He spoke of his thoughts as he sat alone in the Jays’ dugout after losing Game 5 of the American League Championship Series, never dreaming that he would be joining the enemy across the field within three months.

“I never expected that,” he admitted. “I was only thinking about that maybe it could be my last game in Toronto and after that, when free agency started to get quicker, that’s when I started thinking that this is a good place to be and this is a good place to win the World Series too.”

He spoke of the fans and wondered what the reception might be at the Rogers Centre when he is introduced for the first time on May 8.

“We’re going to see what they’re going to give me,” Encarnacion said. “I think I gave them everything I had in Toronto and now I’m moving forward to this organization. We’ll see what they got for me.”

Despite all the sound and fury coming from David Ortiz, starting at the all-star game in San Diego, Encarnacion professed that he never believed the hype and that he never dreamed of replacing the former Red Sox slugger at Fenway Park.

“I never expected that, because David, we’re good friends and he knows what I can do,” Encarnacion said. “But I never expected to be in Boston and I only thought I was going to wait and see what’s going to happen in free agency and see what’s the best team, the best opportunity where I can go to play.”

This was a messed up free-agency for Encarnacion, with miscalculations all around. Edwin accepted a three-year guarantee of $60 million in a deal that includes a $5-million buyout of a fourth option year that would pay him $25 million. The Jays guaranteed him $80 million in early November, with a chance to earn more, then gave Kinzer a deadline, moved it back a couple of days, told him they were going to speak with other players, and signed Morales.

“The problem was we didn’t know what was going to happen with the CBA,” Kinzer said. “We didn’t know the limitations on teams and people were saying we overplayed our hand. We didn’t know what the hand was. We didn’t know what the threshold was going to be, the luxury tax. That was all in play.

“We didn’t know Boston, the Yankees, anybody, how it was going to affect them. Billy Beane coming in at the last minute, and coming all in, speeded up the (signing) process. I had no idea when I went to Six Flags (with his family) that I was going to be making this decision. It all happened in 2 1/2, three hours.”

Encarnacion spoke fondly of his relationship with former teammate Jose Bautista. The two men had been the heart of the Jays order for the past five seasons and had been teammates since 2009.

“He was very big for me,” Encarnacion said. “He was one of the best teammates I ever had. We were talking always about baseball. Whatever idea he had, he’d talk to me. When I had some different idea, I’d talk to him. We helped each other. It was a great experience to play with him.”

Edwin also spoke of the decision he made to cut off negotiations on an extension with the Jays last year once the regular season started.

“When I’m on the field, I want to be focused on what I can do to help my team to win a game,” he said. “If I don’t take that decision, I’m not going to be focused on my game. That’s why I said if we don’t sign before, then you have to give me the opportunity to let me play and we’ll negotiate after the season.”

The Jays gave him a week to consider what became their final four-year offer.

Encarnacion was accompanied by his parents, his brother and his son Edwin Jr. on Thursday. The lightest moment came when Encarnacion joked that his home-run parrot would be joining him once it cleared immigration. The low point was when Kinzer suggested that playing closer to home in the Dominican was a factor in signing with the Indians rather than the A’s.

Hey, are there no Pearson to Santo Domingo flights? In any case, Encarnacion has moved on, but how will the Jays?

Toronto Star LOADED: 01.06.2017

Heyman: MLB winter winners and non-winners ByJon Heyman The winter isn’t quite over, and there are still some big-time players left (Matt Wieters and a bevy of sluggers come to mind), but enough moves have been made to put together a reasonable list of MLB winners and losers. One note: While this annual column has been called winners and losers in the past, I am making it a New Year’s resolution to try to be nicer, so that second list will henceforth be dubbed non-winners. Anyway, here goes … WINNERS 1. Indians. Not only did they add the most dynamic offensive player on the market, they showed for the first time they are serious players on the free-agent market. The surprise signing of Edwin Encarnacion was a true Christmas miracle, just the latest in the Indians’ marvelous year. Plaudits for owners Larry Dolan and company to give out an unprecedented $20-million-a-year deal despite their small market and low revenue, giving the Indians a superb lineup to go along with a wonderful pitching staff. American League favorite. 2. Top closers. Aroldis Chapman, Kenley Jansen and Mark Melancon all surpassed the previous top contract for a reliever of $50 million for four years for Jonathan Papelbon four winters ago. They are three special pitchers, but deals for $86 million, $80 million and $62 million are still extremely good for one-inning pitchers, even great one-inning pitchers. Jansen got his deal despite the draft-pick attachment if he signed elsewhere and Chapman got his despite a strong intention to avoid the West Coast (thus, virtually eliminating one of three main pursuers, and keeping Miami as the main competition to the Yankees). But Melancon gets special notice here as a 33-year-old late-blooming pitcher. Only a few years ago he was one of four to go in trade for Joel Hanrahan, who just retired. 3. Red Sox. No surprise, GM Dave Dombrowski acted bravely and decisively to add Chris Sale, one of baseball best pitchers under one of baseball’s better contracts. Sale, signed for $38 million over the next three years, is well worth the loss of top prospects Yoan Moncada and Michael Kopech (plus two others). Dombrowski also did well to acquire top reliever Tyler Thornburg just as the reliever values started going through the roof. Mitch Moreland adds some lefty power. They also managed to stay under the luxury-tax threshold by offloading the eminently fragile Clay Buchholz after picking up his $13.5-million option. Just a couple quibbles: Pedro Alvarez would have been a slightly better choice than Moreland at quite possibly a fairly similar price, and why not add some third base insurance (Trevor Plouffe, Luis Valbuena?). 4. White Sox. The White Sox have been hanging around .500 for far too long, and needed to do something bold. Which is exactly what GM Rick Hahn did. He also acquired a prospect stash to end all others at a time prospects are overvalued by many, bringing in Moncada and Kopech plus a startling trio that includes the coveted Lucas Giolito for the solid Adam Eaton. Owner Jerry Reinsdorf didn’t exactly sound enthused about a rare rebuilding shortly after the big trades, humorously pointing out that if you acquire four can’t-miss prospects, you’ll be lucky to have one hit. And we understand that sentiment, even intended as a witty observation. Nonetheless, the Chisox did an amazing job in this prospect-loving environment. 5. Ian Desmond. The multitalented player made up for the well-reported $100-million gaffe he made with the Nats, getting most of that money back in a very good deal with the Rockies, who did intend to play him at first base. That could change if they get a better deal on a first baseman and a nice trade for center fielder Charlie Blackmon. But Desmond, after generally playing very well with the Rangers (but hitting .237

in the second half), got an obvious overpay with his $70-million, five-year deal in a tough market for hitters. His versatility and positive clubhouse rep helped. But this was still quite a special deal, especially considering the draft pick attachment. 6. Josh Reddick. He smartly signed early, getting $52 million for four years from the Astros in what turned out to be a wise and decisive play in a mostly tough market for outfielders. Reddick slumped badly in the second half with the Dodgers, but it didn’t seem to hurt his market for some reason (having no draft pick attached was obviously a plus). He’s a good fellow who plays a nice outfield, but this turned out to be a major overpay in my book. It’s also the latest example of how silly the qualifying offer rule is. By virtue of being traded, he didn’t have a draft choice attached to him. Had he had the choice, he would have been lucky to get half that. 7. Dexter Fowler. He bet on himself, taking a one-year deal with the Cubs last year after he got caught in the qualifying-offer issue (but could have gotten a three-year deal with the Orioles, as we know), and it paid off handsomely with an $82.5-million, five-year Cardinals deal that only looks like a bargain compared to Jason Heyward’s $184-million contract going the other way. I admire Fowler for taking that gamble, and good for him he made it work after helping the historic Cubs to a wonderful and historic World Series championship. 8. Jeremy Hellickson. For a while he was leaning toward declining the $17.2-million qualifying offer. But he certainly made the right choice to take it and stay with Philadelphia, a place where he thrived in 2016. His stats are similar to Ivan Nova, who didn’t have the draft choice attachment and will be making almost exactly half as much per year ($26 million, three-year deal with the Pirates). Had he rejected the QO he’d probably still be out there in a starting pitching market that has generally been a major disappointment. 8B. Neil Walker. Coming off back surgery, and with so few second-base openings even after his fine season in New York, he also made the right choice to take the $17.2-million qualifying offer. 9. Brett Cecil. Sure, he’s somewhat more talented than the other top left-handers on the market. But $31 million for four years? Even though he had never even been to St. Louis, he had to jump all over that one. 10. Justin Turner. He had the handicap of the qualifying offer in a market that looked brutal for third basemen, and got to stay home with a $64-million, four-year Dodgers deal. And good for him. Four years ago, he had to sign a minor-league deal with the same Dodgers, and he turned himself into a star, the No. 3 hitter on a perennial contender. 11. Mike Dunn. He’s a solid lefty out of the pen, but $19 million over three years seems quite a bit strong, even after the Cecil deal. 12. Carlos Gomez. To get $11.5 million after a year in which he had one very good month wasn’t bad at all. In fact, it may be the top deal for a player released for performance-related issues the season before. He also gets a manager, Jeff Banister, who is said to love him, and the team for which he thrived (albeit for that month). 13. Yoenis Cespedes. He was wise to sign early, and while $110 million seems fair (we picked that one exactly in the pre-winter predictons) in a market unkind to sluggers, it was definitely the way to go. Good thing, too, because he has shown he likes to spend. 14. Marlins. Brad Ziegler and Junichi Tazawa markedly upgrade a decent bullpen at a time when the pen is finally starting to be appreciated. Kyle Barraclough, A.J. Ramos and David Phelps round out one of the better pens. And maybe they benefit by saving the $80 million that could have gone to Jansen or Chapman. A.J. Ellis should help a young staff, too. 15. Wilson Ramos. The brutal knee injury ended the hopes of a $100-million deal, but he recovered to get a deal that guarantees $12.5 million and could easily be worth $18.25 million with makeable incentives in Tampa Bay. He’s still only 29, so look for him to cash in two years from 16. Daniel Hudson. He came back from two Tommy John surgeries to get an $11-million, two-year deal from the Pirates. Kudos to him. 17. Pirates. If Ivan Nova can repeat his 2016 performance for them, that will prove to be a bargain. One negative: For some odd reason Andrew McCutchen didn’t have the trade value of Eaton, and they’ll likely have to inform him he’s moving from center field (in any case, whether they do or not, McCutchen will do what it takes to prove last year was an offensive aberration for him). 18. Andrew Cashner. He gets $10 million after a simply dreadful season off the promise that his potential will play soon. He also gets to re-grow a beard that makes him look a lot tougher. The third CAA client on this list, after Desmond and Cespedes. 19. Ender Inciarte and Odubel Herrera. An old adage to “never turn down your first fortune,” seems wise for two solid youngsters who will have the advantage of not having to worry about their futures now. The odds are that they turn out to be good deals for the teams, too. Hat tip to the Braves for getting seven years of Inciarte, six of Dansby Swanson, six of Aaron Blair and one of Shelby Miller for one year of Heyward and two of Jordan Walden (plus, they signed back Walden on a non-roster invite deal). 20. Cubs. The World Champions acquired a great closing option in Wade Davis, albeit for only 2017, while only parting with spare outfielder Jorge Soler, who was going to be out of their outfield picture anyway. 21. Astros. Their offense certainly is much improved with the deals for Reddick, Carlos Beltran and Brian McCann, though I’d argue that two of the three were overpays (Beltran wasn’t). I’d also wonder about a pitching rotation that seems thin. If they can somehow acquire Jose Quintana (or someone similar), move them up 15 spots. 22. Padres. I like their new plan to sign international stars and fill out a rotation with some decent deals, like $1.75 million apiece for Clayton Richard and Jhoulys Chacin. 23. Kendrys Morales. He probably will benefit by jumping on that early $33-million, three-year deal from the Jays. He’s a switch hitter who hit 30 home runs in tough Royals Stadium, but in a very difficult market for hitters, this works. 24. Charlie Morton. He made the right move to take the $14 million early from the Astros. A surprisingly weak starting pitching market and his past fragility meant he would not have done better had he waited. 25. Dodgers. They returned their three free agent stars – Turner, Jansen and Rich Hill – giving themselves an excellent chance to contend for their first title since 1988. They’re still working on the long-running Brian Dozier trade talks, and that would be a plus, too, if they can work it out (move ‘em up 15 spots if they work it out, and they should). They’d still have a little work to do in their pen, but that’s baseball president Andrew Friedman’s specialty. Folks forget what a great job Joe Blanton did for them last year leading up to the NLCS vs. the Cubs. 26. Jason Castro. Pitch-framing paid off big, to the tune of $24.5 million over three years. 27. Mark Rzepczynski. He’s even harder to spell than hit, but $11 million over two years in Seattle is quite good for this lefty specialist. 28. Ben Revere. That $4 million guarantee plus $2.25M in incentives for the Angels is quite a haul for a guy who had such a rough season in Washington (an uncharacteristic .217, which isn’t easy to do, considering his speed).

29. Backup catching market. Jeff Mathis (the third Jet Sports Management player mentioned here, after Morton and Hudson) got $4 million for two years, Drew Butera $3.8 million for two and Alex Avila $2.5 million for one. Not bad. Though, there are several to go, including Chris Iannetta, Jarrod Saltalamacchia, Dioner Navarro, Geovany Soto, Hank Conger and Ryan Hanigan. 30. Mets. They did what they had to do, bringing Cespedes back into the fold. Although, they still need to beef up the pen (Jeurys Familia is likely to be suspended for some length of time) and get a lefty, and also figure out what to do with their three left-handed corner outfielders. The likelihood is that Jay Bruce goes, but not for quite what they wanted. Special Category of Winner 1. Hall candidates with PED links/whispers. Barry Bonds and Roger Clemens are polling at just over 70 percent, according to Ryan Thibodaux’s Hall of Fame tracker (@NotMrTibbs), which appears to put them in position to make the Hall in coming years, and Jeff Bagwell, with only whispers and not clear public link (though he once admitted to taking Andro in an interview with the Houston Chronicle), is over 90 percent. So he’s almost certain to make it this year, even with the usual 5-10 percent dropoff from early polling. NON WINNERS 1. Sluggers. The market has been unkind so far to some of the better sluggers, with Mark Trumbo, Jose Bautista, Mike Napoli, Michael Saunders, Chris Carter and Pedro Alvarez as just a few of many power hitters still looking for work. It may work out for many or even most of them in the end, but there doesn’t appear to be a lot of chairs left. The trade market isn’t so hot, either, with the Mets unable to get much to this point for Bruce. 2. Older sluggers. If those guys are taking awhile, you have to wonder if former MVPs Ryan Howard and Justin Morneau will find anything at all. 3. Nationals. GM Mike Rizzo has a long record of great trades (Trea Turner/Joe Ross is a prime example) but the deal for Eaton leaves a lot of us scratching our heads. I get that they were down on Giolito, but Eaton isn’t the type of player who should cost three top prospects, no matter how long his management-friendly deal lasts. And while he is great in right field, where he earned his 6 WAR, he’s probably only about average in center field. 4. Ex-Phillies icons. Jimmy Rollins got a minors deal with a major-league invite from his hometown Giants, but Chase Utley and Howard remain without work. Utley did a nice job for the Dodgers before seeming to wear down on his everyday schedule late last year, so he should be able to get something, even in a tough second-base environment. But we have to wonder about Howard, who’s probably a DH vs. righties only at this point. It could be the end of the line for him and Shane Victorino, who’s said to be still deciding about a comeback. 5. Cardinals. Sure, they got a bit better. But somehow I have to think $113.5 million could have been better spent than Fowler and Cecil. The Cardinals were right not to overpay for icon Albert Pujols or Heyward, but they still do better drafting and developing than in free agency. 6. Rockies. They got better, but like the Cardinals, they paid through the nose. The total of $89 million seems like quite a pretty penny for Desmond as a first baseman and lefty reliever Dunn. A plus: Alexi Amarista, who has agreed for a year and an option, can play six positions, which may have separated him from a bevy of utility players on this year’s market. They are also taking a risk going with the kid catchers when they just may be ready to contend, though Tom Murphy has great potential. 7. Jason Hammel. Great personality and pretty fair pitcher, but what’s he doing changing agents mid-winter? That’s nothing more than a tell that things aren’t going well. The nice narrative that the Cubs did him a favor turning down his $12-million option has turned out not to be true, with only the Mariners connected to him thus far. He’d happily take that now, undoubtedly. 8. Jays. There’s still time, but there’s really no way to make up for the loss of Edwin Encarnacion and quite possibly Jose Bautista. The guess is that at least one of EE and Joey Bats would have been retained under the old regime. But the new guys like to avoid the mega deal. Obviously some early effort was made in Encarnacion’s case, but while the $80-million, four-year bid was eminently reasonable, it’s hard to imagine anyone thought he’d accept the initial offer without first shopping around. They tried for Fowler, making another reasonable offer of about $60 million over four years. And they saw their fine lefty specialist Cecil leave after they made reasonable efforts to keep him, too. Sometimes, being so reasonable doesn’t pay – though it’s possible it will pay off in the long run. 9. Starting pitching market. It went about as expected considering it was the thinnest crop in years, with Rich Hill scoring the biggest deal, at $48 million for three years, and following the signing with a very heart-warming press conference in D.C. 10. Very veteran starters. Jered Weaver and Jake Peavy are still looking around, and the hunch is that one of them will go to the Padres (they may favor Weaver despite Peavy’s past ties to the team). Weaver and Peavy still know how to pitch, and win, and the hunch here is that whoever signs them will be pleased. The same goes for Colby Lewis, who wins more than he has a right to every year, it seems. Tim Lincecum is still looking to come back, and perhaps he needed that first year back after hip surgery. JURY’S OUT 1. Rangers. It doesn’t look good for Texas to make up for what it lost with three starters – Carlos Beltran, Desmond and Moreland – gone already. They’ve retained Gomez, and Napoli remains a possibility, though he was thought to have a mystery team in the mix as well. Hidden loss: Longtime assistant GM Thad Levine left for the Twins and a GM job title. 2. Orioles. Trumbo is still out there, and they seem to remain in the mix, though it’ll be interesting to see if they are still willing to do the same four-year deal (for $50 million plus) they originally offered. Matt Wieters’ ability to work with the young staff may be missed, but Welington Castillo can hit and had a 2.4 WAR last year, providing hope that his career’s on the upswing. The Orioles look set up for a possible late bargain, something they’ve done better than anyone in the past (Nelson Cruz, Pedro Alvarez), but it’ll be hard to replace Trumbo’s league-leading 47 home runs. 3. Tigers. We thought they were going to offload some contracts in order to have a payroll in line with their revenues. But Tigers owner Mike Ilitch remains one owner willing to consistently spend beyond his baseball means. Kudos to him for that. 4. Royals. Hard to question their baseball acumen after so many trades have worked to their advantage. But you have to wonder about Soler since the also smart Cubs group seemed to lose faith. Late pickup Peter O’Brien from the D-Backs could turn out to be a diamondback in the rough (sorry for the bad pun). 5. Phillies. They picked up some vets with one-year commitments (Buchholz, Howie Kendrick, Joaquin Benoit), so they should be a bit better. Still searching for a lefty bat.

6. Giants. It didn’t come without quite a cost, but Melancon is just the one they needed, especially after just missing out on him at the deadline. They seem OK letting their in-house candidates duke it out for left field, but Eduardo Nunez may work better as a super utilityman than a third baseman, as he now stands. 7. Yankees. They’d be a clear winner if not for what their main competition did. They saw the Red Sox, who beat them by quite a bit as it was last year, improve in a year they are mostly going young. The very good news is there does appear to be help on the way, as the Yankees’ system is suddenly one of the best in the bigs, thanks to their big trades last winter (Gleyber Torres was the Arizona Fall League MVP at 19) and judicious recent drafts. Matt Holliday is a very nice add, at $13M, and will be a plus for all the new kids in the clubhouse as well as in the lineup. They also made a nice trade with McCann, getting two prospects while offloading $23 million. Though they say they have gotten offers for Brett Gardner that don’t involve them offsetting the $25 million to go, they are obviously not very enticing offers to date. Chase Headley appears to have had little to no market. 8. Angels. They went for defense again, adding Danny Espinosa to play second base, and it just could work. While they never contended last year, they were only outscored by 10 runs on a year when their rotation was decimated. Something tells me they badly underachieved. 9. A’s. Rajai Davis is a plus for anyone’s clubhouse. And they certainly made things interesting in the Encarnacion sweepstakes, bidding $25 million a year on a two-year deal. It’ll be just as interesting to see whether they prove to be real players for Trumbo, too. 10. Trumbo, Wieters, Bautista, etc. Trumbo would be a great add for almost anyone, as he’s versatile (he showed he can play the outfield as well as first base) and a clubhouse plus, with the Orioles or A’s appearing most likely at this point. Wieters could be an NL East battle, with the Nats and Braves (the Mets seem content to go with Travis d’Arnaud), though the Angels, Rockies and others could benefit from a veteran catcher. The draft attachment is a tough pill for Bautista, but let’s not forget he could easily come back with another MVP type season at 36 (he was great in the playoffs and is said to be working harder than ever). AROUND THE MAJORS — The A’s are making things interesting, and they are now looking at Trumbo, as was first reported here, after their spirited run at Encarnacion, when they offered a $25-million-a-year guarantee ($50 million over two years). — The Orioles don’t seem to have given up on Trumbo. They originally offered him about $50 million for four years, and while they took that off the table, they seem to be open to a reunion. — Bautista has circled back to Baltimore since GM Dan Duquette told them he didn’t think it would work due to fan response toward Bautista. Doesn’t appear the Orioles have had a change of heart, however. — The Jays do not seem anxious to bring Bautista back, as it seems their goal all along was to get the draft pick when he signs elsewhere. The one chance for a return would seem to be if there’s no deal forthcoming elsewhere. — In addition to the $60 million guarantee on three years and an option for Encarnacion with the Indians, there are up to $1 million a year in attendance bonuses. Normally, attendance clauses wouldn’t be worth much in Cleveland. But the excitement there is palpable. — While the Phillies are considered a “long shot” for Bautista, they are looking closely at Saunders, Brandon Moss and other lefty bats. — Tyson Ross visited the Rangers on Wednesday, as was first reported here, with his decision down to about a half-dozen teams. The Cubs, Indians and Pirates are among other teams linked to Ross, who’s coming back off thoracic outlet syndrome. The Padres have been linked to him, as well, but it would seem unusual to go on a tour if he’s just going to return to San Diego. Jeff Passan of Yahoo has suggested the Rangers and Cubs are favorites. — I can understand why the Twins want to give Brian Dozier a break and figure out soon whether Dozier will be traded to the Dodgers (or elsewhere), or remain with the Twins. If we are all tired of it, imagine how Dozier feels! The Dodgers have plenty of good prospects to pair up with righty pitcher Jose De Leon, so the sides should be able to figure it out. — It still would make sense for the Chisox to deal Jose Quintana. The Pirates, Astros and Yankees are among teams known to be involved. Houston needs a veteran starter. — While Todd Frazier is a fine player, it is probably hard to find a taker in this market. Here are two things not to be in this market: 1) A power hitter, and 2) a third baseman. That may explain why he hasn’t been linked to any teams in trade. — Teams still interested in a lefty reliever include the Mets, Yankees, Indians and Blue Jays. Happy New Year. Did the Blue Jays misread the market on Edwin Encarnacion? Edwin Encarnacion explains why 2017 Indians will win World Series Ken RosenthalJan 6, 2017 at 5:32a ET The one thing that remains puzzling about the Blue Jays’ handling of Edwin Encarnacion is the team’s quick pivot to Kendrys Morales in free agency. If Encarnacion’s agent, Paul Kinzer, made a questionable decision by failing to seize upon the Jays’ initial four-year, $80 million offer, didn’t the club also misread the market? Few question Morales’ offensive ability. As a switch-hitter, he will help balance the Jays’ lineup. But at 33, he is only five months younger than Encarnacion. And the trade and free-agent markets included plenty of other left-handed hitting options, some of whom — unlike Morales — also add defensive and baserunning value. The free-agent class included Dexter Fowler, Josh Reddick, Jon Jay, switch-hitter Carlos Beltran and several others who remain unsigned — Luis Valbuena, Michael Saunders, Brandon Moss, Pedro Alvarez, Colby Rasmus. The trade market included — and still includes — the Mets’ Jay Bruce and Curtis Granderson, Yankees’ Brett Gardner and Mariners’ Seth Smith. The Jays might view Morales on a three-year, $33 million deal as better than all of those alternatives — and remember, they scored big with their early signings of free-agent pitchers J.A. Happ and Marco Estrada last offseason, both of which were questioned at the time. Still, if the Jays truly wanted Encarnacion, they could have kept their options open and allowed him to explore the market. Both the Dodgers’ Justin Turner and Pirates’ Ivan Nova returned to their respective clubs for less money than they sought initially in free agency. The Blue Jays, by contrast, made Encarnacion a seemingly modest offer in spring training — a two-year extension with two option years and a reworking of his $10 million salary in 2016, according to Rogers SportsNet.

They then made him what proved to be a take-it-or-leave-it proposal before the market opened, one that he was likely to refuse so early in the process, even though it proved better than the deal he ultimately landed with the Indians. Rarely do major free agents re-sign with their teams days before other clubs can start bidding — and rarely do teams act so abruptly when trying to retain star players. The Jays signed Morales on Nov. 18, then all but ended any chance of keeping Encarnacion by adding Steve Pearce on Dec. 5. The Jays’ assessment of Morales vs. Encarnacion might prove correct, particularly since they landed Morales at just over half of EE’s price. But MLBTradeRumors.com ranked Morales the 22nd best free agent, between Mike Napoli and Greg Holland. Fangraphs had Morales at No. 29, between Valbuena and Brad Ziegler. EE was in the top four on both those lists. Even if Morales flew off the board, as the Jays apparently suspected he would, the team would have had plenty of time to adjust. Heck, they even could have brought back Edwin Encarnacion, at what proved to be a reduced rate. SHOULD THE METS HAVE SET JAY BRUCE FREE? Speaking of misreading the market, one rival GM says the Mets should have declined Jay Bruce’s $13 million option, then signed a comparable player — maybe even Bruce — for far less. The GM contends the Mets knew that Bruce was in relatively low demand when they acquired him at the non-waiver deadline, and that his subsequent struggles only made him less attractive in a trade. Bruce, though, still finished with 33 homers, 99 RBIs and an .815 OPS. The Mets were not unreasonable to think they could move him, even in a crowded market. And they needed him to protect against the possible loss of Yoenis Cespedes, whom they re-signed to a four-year, $110 million deal. As one Mets official said, “When you buy insurance, it doesn’t come for free.” That “insurance” might even have helped the Mets with Cespedes, improving their leverage by helping them avoid appearing desperate. Fair enough, but this isn’t likely to end well for the Mets. Chances are, they will need to include cash in any trade of Bruce, and even then they still figure to receive a minimal return. FREE-AGENT SPENDING WAY DOWN The sharp decline in the money spent on free agents from last offseason to this offseason is nothing short of stunning. The biggest reason for the dropoff likely is the poor quality of the current free-agent class, but many agents remain concerned that the relatively small increase in the luxury-tax thresholds under the new CBA also is inhibiting spending. In 2015-16, six teams spent $218 million or more on free agents, and three more were above $100 million. The Dodgers are the top spender this offseason at $192 million, and only two other teams — the Mets and Cardinals — are above $100 million. Meanwhile, 18 teams — more than half the sport — have spent under $30 million, as opposed to 13 last season. Teams such as the Phillies and Rangers still could exceed that sum. But clearly, the market is depressed. Things presumably will be different next offseason, when the free-agent class will include Jake Arrieta, Yu Darvish, Eric Hosmer, Lorenzo Cain and J.D. Martinez. And they certainly should be different for the great class of 2018-19, when Bryce Harper, Manny Machado, Josh Donaldson and Clayton Kershaw all could be available. NEXT FOR THE A’S: PLOUFFE? Add the Athletics to the list of teams pursuing free-agent infielder Trevor Plouffe, according to major-league sources. The Red Sox reportedly are interested as well. Plouffe, 30, can play first base as well as third, even the outfield corners in a pinch. His 2016 season was marred by three different rib/oblique injuries, but he hit well in his final healthy stint and the year before had 22 homers and 86 RBIs. The Athletics are typically a team that values on-base percentage, which is one reason they might not be all that intrigued by Mark Trumbo, whose career mark is .305. Then again, neither Plouffe (.308) or Rajai Davis (.314) is especially proficient at getting on base. So the A’s interest in Trumbo, first reported by Jon Heyman of FanRag Sports, could increase if his price drops to a level that the club sees as appealing. AROUND THE HORN — The Dodgers have yet to officially announce the signing of free-agent closer Kenley Jansen, with whom they reached agreement on Dec. 12. The delay is not due to the Brian Dozier trade discussions, sources say; the issue was simply the logistics of scheduling a physical for Jansen around the holidays. If the Dodgers trade for Dozier, however, they will need to clear 40-man roster spots for both him and Jansen; they currently are at 40. The team could include two 40-man players in the deal — right-hander Jose De Leon would be one — or part with one and designate another player for assignment. — The Twins, under new chief baseball officer Derek Falvey and GM Thad Levine, understandably want to make the best deal possible for Dozier, who hit 42 homers last season and is a bargain at $15 million over the final two years of his contract. De Leon, though, is precisely the kind of young pitcher the Twins need; Fangraphs projects their rotation to again be the worst in the American League. Six years of De Leon would not necessarily constitute a fair return for two affordable years of Dozier, and the Dodgers are willing to include other prospects in the deal, sources say. — The Giants remain committed to an inexpensive Jarrett Parker-Mac Williamson platoon in left field, reasoning that they have sizable investments at most other positions on the field and also on their pitching staff. Fangraphs projects Parker and Williamson to combine for 0.8 WAR — the same as the Nationals’ Jayson Werth. That certainly would not be All-Star production, but then, the Giants’ last All-Star in left was Barry Bonds. Parker, 27, is out of minor-league options. Williamson, 26, was batting .245 with an .804 OPS in 113 plate appearances before straining his left shoulder on July 31 and missing more than a month. Both players have power, and if they continue to strike out at a high rate, so be it; the rest of the Giants’ lineup is proficient at making contact. — And finally, the Rays’ offense could improve dramatically if they signed free-agent outfielder Jose Bautista on top of catcher Wilson Ramos. Such a move, however, only would occur if Bautista’s price fell to the point where the Rays essentially could not refuse.

The Rays hold the fourth pick in the amateur draft, which is protected. They would forfeit their next selection — currently No. 31 overall — if they signed Bautista. The combination of the pick and the cash outlay likely would be prohibitive for a team that has ranked last in the majors in attendance for five straight years.