Evaluating the Yankees Options at DH If They Trade Brian McCann

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Oct 18, 2016; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Blue Jays first baseman Edwin Encarnacion (10) hits an two RBI single during the seventh inning against the Cleveland Indians in game four of the 2016 ALCS playoff baseball series at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: Nick Turchiaro-USA TODAY Sports /

Jose Bautista and Edwin Encarnacion

Edwin Encarnacion is considered neck-and-neck with outfielder Yoenis Cespedes for being the top impact bat on the free agent market this offseason. Few power hitters have been as consistently excellent as Encarnacion in the last five years, surpassing 30 home runs, 95 RBI, 500 PA, and a .500 slugging percentage in every season since 2012.

At 33 years old, there are no signs that Encarnacion is beginning to slow down. He hit .263/.357/.529 with 42 home runs and a league-leading 127 RBI in 702 PA for the Blue Jays this year. MLB Trade Rumors projects a four year deal for EE, and he seems a good bet to remain productive for that span.

The real problem is the money he’s expected to command. MLBTR estimates a $92 million commitment, which is probably more than the Yankees will want to spend on anyone past their 30th birthday these days. He’s probably the free agent who would help the team most in 2017, but it’s hard to imagine New York outbidding the Red Sox, Rangers, or Astros, whose front offices are simply hungrier.

Interestingly, Encarnacion’s teammate Jose Bautista could end up being something of a buy-low option after a down season. MLBTR predicts a three year $51 million deal, but they note he could be open to a one year pillow deal to re-establish value. Bautista does have a qualifying offer attached, so he’s not an ideal candidate for New York. Still, we’ve already heard that Brian Cashman has reached out to his agent, so there is at least preliminary interest.

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