Indians Agree to Terms with Edwin Encarnacion

The Indians' lineup didn't have much power to begin with during their AL pennant run in 2016, so Mike Napoli's departure via free agency left a big hole. The Cleveland front office addressed that hole in a big way, bringing one of the game's preeminent sluggers, Edwin Encarnacion, into the fold on a three year, $60 million deal with an option for a fourth year. Though he'll turn 34 in January, the man can crush home runs like anybody in baseball. His 193 home runs are the second most in baseball over the past five seasons, trailing only Chris Davis' 197. The Indians lineup is filled with above average hitters like Francisco Lindor, Carlos Santana, Jason Kipnis, and Jose Ramirez, though none could really be considered an "anchor." Michael Brantley could assume that role when he returns for the 2017 season, but he has had trouble staying healthy in the past. Encarnacion, on the other hand, can be counted on to anchor that lineup and act as the one big bat that pulls it all together. He represents a clear upgrade over the departing Mike Napoli, as Encarnacion provides more power, on-base ability, and consistency. Last year, the 33 year old batted .263 with 42 home runs, 34 doubles, and an AL-leading 127 RBI over 160 games. For his career, he has 310 home runs, 311 doubles, and a .266 batting average over 1513 games, and he leaves Toronto third on its all time home run list at 239.