Jays plan to use Encarnacion as utility player

TORONTO – The Blue Jays plan to use Edwin Encarnacion all over the diamond next season.

The infielder who mostly was the designated hitter for Toronto last season played 36 games at third base and 25 at first, along with 70 as the DH.

General manager Alex Anthopoulous says the 28 year-old Encarnacion will add the outfield to his repertoire by playing left field in winter ball.

The Blue Jays picked up a $3.5 million option on Encarnacion on Monday. By the end of the season, Encarnacion routinely batted a spot or two behind slugger Jose Bautista. He hit .272 with 36 doubles, 17 home runs and 55 RBIs.