The Seattle Mariners have been expected to trade Edwin Encarnacion ever since they acquired him in a three-team deal back in December.

The Mariners are unlikely to trade Encarnacion before the start of full-squad workouts Saturday, but a trade will likely be discussed as needs arise for other clubs this spring.

Encarnacion is 36 and carries a $20 million salary for 2019 plus a $5 million buyout if his team doesn't pick up his option for '20.