If 2014 is to go better for the Blue Jays than 2013, a big help would be a full, healthy season from both members of its middle-of-the-lineup power duo, José Bautista (OF, TOR) and Edwin Encarnación (1B, TOR).
The early signs for Bautista are positive. He had three hits in his first seven at-bats, all for extra bases (HR, two 2B). Bautista has seen his PX, xPX and Slg dip each of the last three years, with the wrist and hip injuries he has battled likely a factor. At age 33 with still-strong ct%, Eye and HR/F, a return to the 30-HR level and beyond is not out of the question, though the injury history argues for a little restraint.
Encarnacion has yet to put on a power display this preseason (two singles in 6 AB),...
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