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Should the Cleveland Indians Sign Edwin Encarnacion?

By Adam Klepzig

Oct 14, 2016; Cleveland, OH, USA; Toronto Blue Jays designated hitter Edwin Encarnacion (10) hits a double against the Cleveland Indians in the first inning in game one of the 2016 ALCS playoff baseball series at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 14, 2016; Cleveland, OH, USA; Toronto Blue Jays designated hitter Edwin Encarnacion (10) hits a double against the Cleveland Indians in the first inning in game one of the 2016 ALCS playoff baseball series at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports /
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Cleveland Indians
Sep 22, 2013; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Indians manager Terry Francona (right) and general manager Chris Antonetti watch as starting pitcher Justin Masterson (not pictured) throws a simulated game at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-USA TODAY Sports /

3) Loss of 1st Round Draft Pick

Since Chris Antonetti took over as general manager in 2011, the Indians have had an excellent track record in the amateur baseball draft. In the first round of the amateur draft from 2011 to 2014, the Indians have drafted Francisco Lindor, Tyler Naquin, Clint Frazier, and Bradley Zimmer, respectively.

Francisco Lindor is already a star in the MLB and a cornerstone of the Indians franchise. Tyler Naquin had an excellent rookie campaign and looks to have a promising future if he can work out the holes in his swing. Clint Frazier was the main piece that lured Andrew Miller from the Yankees. Bradley Zimmer is currently the top prospect in the organization.

Since the Toronto Blue Jays made Edwin Encarnacion the qualifying offer, any team who signs him will lose their first-round pick in the upcoming 2017 amateur draft, unless that team has a top 10 pick. The Indians currently hold the 27th overall pick in the draft. They would forfeit that pick to Toronto if they signed Encarnacion.

Next: Top 25 Indians in 2016: Mike Clevinger

The Indians have produced quality prospects and players from the first round during Antonetti’s tenure with the Indians, so the loss of this pick shouldn’t be taken lightly.

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