The Indians and A's have emerged as front-runners to land free-agent slugger Edwin Encarnacion, according to MLB Network insider Ken Rosenthal.
The designated hitter/first baseman, who turns 34 in January, is considered the top hitter on the market. He slashed .263/.357/.529 with 42 home runs and an American League-leading 127 RBIs for the Blue Jays in 2016. He's hit no fewer than 34 home runs and driven in no fewer than 98 runs in each of the last five seasons with Toronto.
• Hot Stove Tracker
According to Rosenthal, Cleveland has offered Encarnacion a three-year deal with a possible fourth-year option, and Oakland has discussed a two-year deal with an option. The Blue Jays, Rangers and Astros have also been in the mix for Encarnacion.
ESPN reported earlier that Encarnacion's representatives have indicated a deal may be imminent.