Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports
Adam LaRoche posted another strong season, making him one of the most consistent members of the Washington Nationals infield since 2012, when he finished sixth in the MVP voting. In those three seasons, LaRoche has played in all but 40 games. He has an on-base percentage of .346, and an OPS+ of 118 (league average is 100).
Beyond his offensive abilities, LaRoche is one of the better defensive first baseman in baseball. He won a Gold Glove in 2012 and was just named a finalist for 2014. His ability to play defense, rather than just swing the bat, will set him apart from other first base options should he hit the free agent market.
The Nationals are hoping to have Ryan Zimmerman back for the 2015 season, and they will likely move him to first base with his shoulder ailment. This will likely put Zimmerman on the outside looking in, as his contract has a mutual option with a $2 million buyout. If the Nats decide to pick up his option, Zimmerman has said he wants to stay with Washington, but it looks like he will hit the market.
With teams looking for offense, he will have a number of suitors, and here are the top five that could be bidding for the Nats first baseman.