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Report: Encarnacion expected at Mariners camp with trade talks stalled

Billie Weiss/Boston Red Sox / Getty Images Sport / Getty

It looks like Edwin Encarnacion will enter spring training as a member of the Seattle Mariners.

After acquiring the three-time All-Star from the Cleveland Indians on Dec. 13, the Mariners were reportedly confident they'd be able to trade him before spring training. However, trade discussions haven't advanced recently, and now the 36-year-old is expected to report to Mariners camp this week, a source told MLB.com's Jon Paul Morosi.

Seattle's approach with the slugger could change as injuries or needs arise elsewhere. But right now the Mariners are struggling to find a deal for Encarnacion because the designated hitter, and infrequent first baseman, mostly just appeals to American League teams, Morosi adds.

The veteran, who has hit 32-plus home runs in seven straight seasons, is still likely to be dealt before July's non-waiver trade deadline, Morosi notes.

Encarnacion is in the final year of his current contract, earning $21.6 million. He's also attached to a $20-million team option for next season with a $5-million buyout.

Since 2015, only Nolan Arenado has recorded more RBIs than Encarnacion, whose 151 home runs during the same period ties him for fourth most in baseball.

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