The Washington Nationals’ offseason wasn’t flashy but was consistent and engaging. Re-signing starting pitcher Stephen Strasburg was a notable priority for the Nationals who then took a unique approach to the rest of their due diligence in free agency.
That approach is utilizing cheaper resources that can snowball in size. This could allow the team to have multiple flexibilities from a roster standpoint with a group that isn’t comprised of high-end talent.
The Nationals made it clear they were going to invest in their starting pitching staff which estimates around $98 million for four starters in their 2020 rotation.
The Nationals unquestionably understand their identity is built through pitching so the first domino to fall was agreeing to a seven-year deal around $245 million with Strasburg. The World Series MVP comes back after opting out of a guaranteed $100 million deal. Strasburg will be at the top of the rotation again.
The approach to finding cheaper options were consistent throughout free-agency for the Nationals. Catcher Yan Gomes returned on a two-year $10 million deal. His chemistry with the pitching staff was an attraction and the ballclub feels he can regain his 2018 All-Star form.
Postseason fan-favorite Howie Kendrick returned on a one-year $6.25 million deal due to his hitting experience and veteran presence. In three seasons he has batted at an unprecedented .325/.373/.516 rate.
An army swiss knife was also brought back in Asdrubal Cabrera on a one-year $2.5 million deal. His ability to play every position in the infield and be an above-average switch-hitting bat is why he was retained. After coming back to D.C. from the Rangers he hit .323 with six home runs, 40 RBI’s, and a .969 OPS in 38 regular-season games.
Reliever Daniel Hudson was retained as well due to his resurgence in the postseason. Hudson recorded the final out in the World Series, which sealed a championship victory. He flourished last season after coming to the Nationals from Toronto. In 25 regular-season games, he posted a 1.44 ERA and a 5.75 strikeout-to-walk ratio.
‘Mr. National’ Ryan Zimmerman was recently brought back on a one-year $2 million deal. Zimmerman who holds several franchise records was pivotal for the ball club in the postseason on and off the field.
The Nationals didn’t stray from their offseason identity. They let Anthony Rendon walk away and still addressed his vacancy. Sterling Castro will get his chance to try and be a serviceable void at third base. Castro was signed to a two-year $12 million deal. He has superior defensive ability all over the infield but has notable offensive struggles. If he struggles again with his bat in D.C. he will likely alternate with other players.
A power bat on the bench is a requirement for success in MLB. Eric Thames signed a one-year $3 million deal. He will fill a left-handed void left by Matt Adams. His hitting consistency of .877 OPS, 23 HR in 346 ABs is something Davey Martinez will covert during the season.
If there was an unpredictable move in free agency. The three-year $24 million deal of reliever Will Harris was just that. He is coming to D.C. after surrendering the game seven home run to Howie Kendrick. He has been a reliable reliever, however, posting a 175 ERA+ in five seasons in Houston.
The defending world champions will get their opportunity to defend their title in a couple of weeks. Pitchers and catchers report to West Palm Beach, Florida on February 13th. The first practice as a whole is on February 18th.