Agent believes Encarnacion likely to sign during winter meetings

The Edwin Encarnacion sweepstake's appear set for a conclusion.

Encarnacion's agent Paul Kinzer told Joel Sherman of the New York Post on Sunday that talks between prospective teams and his client have intensified since the new collective bargaining agreement was reached and it's likely a deal gets done during the winter meetings.

Major League Baseball's annual winter meetings run from Monday through Thursday in Maryland.

The market for Encarnacion remains somewhat unknown. The Houston Astros had been heavily linked to the free-agent slugger but agreed to a one-year deal with Carlos Beltran earlier this week, likely ruling them out of another high-priced free agent.

The Boston Red Sox were initially perceived to be a major player for Encarnacion, though all signs seem to indicate that their attention is elsewhere.

Kinzer has remained in contact with Encarnacion's former team, the Toronto Blue Jays, who reportedly made an offer in the range of $80 million over four years, that was rejected. General manager Ross Atkins has stated the club would welcome Encarnacion back with open arms, though also acknowledged with so many other needs that his fit on the roster isn't an easy one to maneuvre - especially when considering his reported $100-million asking price.

The New York Yankees and Texas Rangers remain interesting and viable options. Both teams have a need at first base/designated hitter, and have the necessary resources to sign him.