Astros: Do They Even Have a Shot at Edwin Encarnacion?

Aug 14, 2016; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Blue Jays designated hitter Edwin Encarnacion (10) runs the bases after hitting a home run during the seventh inning in a game against the Houston Astros at Rogers Centre. The Toronto Blue Jays won 9-2. Mandatory Credit: Nick Turchiaro-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 14, 2016; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Blue Jays designated hitter Edwin Encarnacion (10) runs the bases after hitting a home run during the seventh inning in a game against the Houston Astros at Rogers Centre. The Toronto Blue Jays won 9-2. Mandatory Credit: Nick Turchiaro-USA TODAY Sports /
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Although unlikely, Edwin Encarnacion would make the Astros lineup more dangerous.

May 14, 2015; Houston, TX, USA; Toronto Blue Jays first baseman Edwin Encarnacion (10) hits a home run during the first inning against the Houston Astros at Minute Maid Park. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
May 14, 2015; Houston, TX, USA; Toronto Blue Jays first baseman Edwin Encarnacion (10) hits a home run during the first inning against the Houston Astros at Minute Maid Park. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports /

Unless we start hearing rumors about the Houston Astros having interests in Edwin Encarnacion, I don’t want to get Astros Twitter too excited. There is very little chance that Encarnacion would choose Houston as he has expressed a desire to stay in the AL East. The 33-year-old first baseman has played for the Toronto Blue Jays since 2009. However, this run in Toronto feels like it has come to an end.

Two straight years, the Blue Jays knocked the Rangers out of the playoffs in the first round. Both years, they were eliminated in the ALCS. Encarnacion goes home not knowing what his future holds, but wherever he goes, he can expect to get paid. He said following the loss to the Indians that he would wait until after the World Series before he thinks about a new team.

Only in Houston, would people think that there is even a chance to get Encarnacion. Rumors are hinting that the Red Sox might go after to replace David Ortiz. Jon Heyman believes that there is a high chance the Yankees could sign him. Always the loyal son, Encarnacion has said that the Blue Jays are his first choice. Rumors are that the Rangers are sniffing around as well.

Do the Astros even have a shot? Houston is not known as a premier free agent destination. Do they even have the money?