Inbox: Does adding Morales mean EE’s gone?

I like the deal for Kendrys Morales, but does it really mean Edwin Encarnacion will not be back? There’s room for both. — Jason D., Toronto

There’s still a chance that Encarnacion returns, but it does not seem very likely. Morales will need to take almost all of his at-bats at designated hitter, and while Encarnacion did play 75 games at first base in 2016, there should be some concern as to whether he can stay healthy enough to start there on an everyday basis.

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The smart play is for Encarnacion to remain in the same role he’s had over the last several years. Splitting time between first and DH has proven to be an effective formula for providing rest to the various leg and back ailments that have plagued him in the past. If Toronto truly believed it was going to keep Encarnacion, it’s doubtful it would have added a full-time DH.

Do you think there is a possibility that the Blue Jays could sign Jon Jay and Michael Bourn to be their corner outfielders in 2017? Both fit their wish list of getting more athletic and adding left-handed bats. — Patrick W., Vancouver, British Columbia

The Blue Jays added Bourn once before, but I can’t see them doing it again. He was with the club on a Minor League deal last season, but he never cracked the big league roster and later ended up with the D-backs and Orioles. Once in Baltimore he played quite well, but at this stage he’s more of a reserve outfielder, and the Blue Jays have plenty of those.

Jay is an interesting target, and while I don’t think he’s “Plan A,” it’s possible he becomes a back-up option if some other moves don’t work out. He’s going to be more affordable than Dexter Fowler, but he also doesn’t steal many bases anymore after swiping just two in 2016. Even so, his .352 career on-base percentage is appealing, and if Toronto finds power elsewhere, Jay could become an option at the right price.

If both Encarnacion and Bautista are gone along with Michael Saunders, will the Blue Jays pursue Mark Trumbo, Colby Rasmus and Josh …

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