Report: Encarnacion sets deadline for contract extension

Edwin Encarnacion is reportedly setting a spring training deadline to work out a new contract with the Toronto Blue Jays, sources tell WEEI's Rob Bradford.

According to Bradford, Encarnacion will commit to becoming a free agent after the 2016 season if an extension is not worked out before the end of spring training.

Should Encarnacion hit the free-agent market next winter, the report notes there would be significant mutual interest between the slugger and Boston Red Sox.

Encarnacion, who turns 33 next month, enjoyed another impressive season for the AL East champions, hitting 39 homers and posting a .929 OPS - the second-highest mark of his career - in 146 games. He's entering the option year ($10 million) of a team-friendly extension signed during the 2012 season.