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Hanley won't recruit Encarnacion, Bautista while vacationing

Winslow Townson / USA TODAY Sports

Hanley Ramirez is in prime position to recruit both Jose Bautista and Edwin Encarnacion while the trio attend David Ortiz's fundraiser in the Dominican Republic this week, though the Boston Red Sox first baseman isn't about to spoil the party by talking business.

"I don't talk about baseball here because I think this is the time that you got to relax," Ramirez told Even Drellich of the Boston Herald. "I won't talk about baseball, nothing like that. I can wish them good luck and (tell them to) go where they think they can win a championship."

Both Encarnacion and Bautista have been linked to the Red Sox this offseason, though recent reports have Boston's interest cooling on at least Encarnacion as he seeks a multi-year deal in the range of $100 million.

Red Sox president Dave Dombrowski had been adamant this winter that he doesn't want to tie up the designated hitter position long-term with one player, which doesn't bode well for the club's chances of signing Encarnacion.

Bautista, however, could still fit in the Red Sox plans. Though Mookie Betts has priority in right field, Bautista could be deployed at DH, while also seeing time at first base, alternating with Ramirez. When asked about the possibility of signing with the Red Sox, Bautista said he had an open mind.

"Being a free agent you just gotta be open to all possibilities," Bautista said. "I don't know what the future is going to hold for me. I'm excited to see what's gonna develop."

With changes in the CBA limiting players from receiving qualifying offers for a second time, Bautista could accept a short-term deal this winter to increase his value after an injury-plagued 2016 campaign.

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