The Washington Nationals have found themselves in the midst of much free agent talk this winter involving some of the market’s top names. Bill Ladson of MLB.com reports that the Nationals are still very much in the Prince Fielder sweepstakes. While Washington remains interested in Fielder, Ladson says the Nationals are no longer in the running for Cuban outfielder Yoennis Cespedes.
The Nationals have created quite a buzz this offseason. Not only did the club trade for young and talented starting pitcher Gio Gonzalez, but they have been termed the favorites to land Fielder this winter. Some say that the addition of Fielder would make the Nationals a serious threat to play deep into the postseason.
With a young, up-and-coming pitching staff and an already decent lineup, the Nationals certainly appear to be a team on the rise. This may have general manager Mike Rizzo tempted to bring in Fielder to put his club over the top.
Still, Ladson reports that the Nationals are unwilling to hand over a 10-year deal to Fielder. Instead, Washington is reportedly seeking a six- or seven-year agreement with Prince and agent Scott Boras. Along with a long-term deal, Ladson hears that the Nationals are willing to offer Fielder a no-trade clause.
Though the Nationals remain in the thick of the Prince Fielder market, the same cannot be said regarding soon-to-be free agent Yoennis Cespedes. A baseball source has said that the Nationals are now out of the Cespedes sweepstakes. Washington isn’t convinced that Cespedes can stick in center field, and instead believes the 26-year-old is best suited for a corner outfield spot.
For more on the Nationals, be sure to check out District on Deck.
You can check out all of the available free agents by position below.