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Encarnacion 'really happy' following ovation from Blue Jays fans

Steve Russell / Toronto Star / Getty

Edwin Encarnacion received a hero's welcome Monday when the slugger returned to Toronto for the first time since signing with the Cleveland Indians this winter.

One of the greatest players in Blue Jays history, Encarnacion received a standing ovation from the 40,014 in attendance at Rogers Centre - a gesture that was not lost on the three-time All-Star.

"It was something really exciting," Encarnacion told reporters through a translator. "The applause that I received from the fans, I feel really happy."

Encarnacion established himself as a fan favorite and one of the most feared power hitters in the majors during his eight years with the Blue Jays. But with the front office and his agent unable to come to an agreement on a new contract this winter, he opted to sign a three-year deal with Cleveland.

Prior to the series opener, Encarnacion admitted he wasn't sure how his former team's fans would receive him. It didn't take long, however, for the Blue Jays faithful to show him love, as he was greeted with a tribute video prior to the first pitch, and received another loud applause prior to his first at-bat.

"At first, I wasn't expecting the reception that I got, but then when they stood up - that huge group of fans that stood up for me - they gained not only my respect, but the respect of all the other players that were there that saw it and heard it," Encarnacion said.

The Indians' designated hitter finished the night 2-for-3 with a walk in a 4-2 loss.

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