Trade Deadline Preview: Washington Nationals

Jun 22, 2014; Washington, DC, USA; Washington Nationals first baseman Adam LaRoche (25) hits an RBI single against the Atlanta Braves during the first inning at Nationals Park. Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports

Who could be moved:

1. Adam LaRoche

LaRoche has had another fantastic year for the Nationals after a lackluster performance 2013. He has regained his 2012 form when he finished 6th in the MVP voting for the NL. However, the Nationals are not very comfortable with Zimmerman moving back to third base, young stand-out Anthony Rendon has performed brilliantly at the position this year, and have talked about Zimmerman moving to first base. This would leave LaRoche on the outside looking in. He is also in the final year of his contract and multiple teams could bid for his services if he was to be on the market, thus the Nationals could fill another hole in a trade involving LaRoche.

2. Drew Storen

Storen has been fantastic this year, along with many other bullpen arms for the Nationals, posting an ERA of 1.06. Storen has proven that he can be a closer in the past, 43 saves in 2011, and he is only 26 years old. With that being the Nationals can stand to benefit from trading Storen. He will most likely garnish a solid return as many clubs are looking for a reliable closer, such as the Detroit Tigers and San Francisco Giants.

3. Denard Span

Trading Span would most likely happen if the Nationals were able to acquire a second baseman or a left fielder. This would enable them to move Harper to centerfield, a position he has openly said he would like to play, or they could keep Zimmerman in the outfield if a second baseman was acquired. Moving Harper to centerfield would give him the chance to display his speed and strong arm, an upgrade on the defensive side of the field.