Encarnacion: Moving on from Blue Jays 'very hard for me'

Edwin Encarnacion officially moved on from the Toronto Blue Jays on Thursday when the Cleveland Indians announced their three-year deal with the slugger and unveiled him at a press conference.

While Encarnacion discussed a number of topics Thursday - including why he made the decision to join the Indians, his admiration for manager Terry Francona, and the bond he's already created with new teammates Carlos Santana and Francisco Lindor - he also expressed his difficulties with walking away from the Blue Jays.

"It's very hard for me ... but I'm moving forward now," Encarnacion said before thanking the entire Blue Jays organization and their fans for their support.

The Blue Jays, in turn, thanked Encarnacion for his eight stellar years with the franchise via a video tribute celebrating his legacy in Canada.

Encarnacion finished his time in Toronto ranked among the franchise's top 10 hitters in home runs (239), RBIs (679), walks (477), slugging percentage (.522), and runs scored (593), but he's excited about joining a new team in Cleveland - one that nearly won the World Series this past season.

"Everybody knows Cleveland has one of the best teams in the American League. I'm happy to be here. I want to win," Encarnacion said.

The 33-year-old hit .263/.357/.529 with 42 home runs and 127 RBIs for the Blue Jays last season, and is expected to provide the Indians with power in the middle of their lineup, replacing Mike Napoli, who's still on the free-agent market.

Over the course of his 12-year career, Encarnacion owns a .266/.352/.498 slash line with 310 home runs and 942 RBIs.