How could Werth fit in next season?
If Werth doesn’t decide to retire this winter, a one-year deal is all he’ll get.
Even that seems like a reach based on how many other players with similar abilities are out there. For instance, ex-Nationals’ first baseman/outfielder Adam Lind is a free agent and someone coming off of a much better season.
Washington could always still reunite with him as their refusal to pay him $5 million was likely the deciding factor in not picking up his option.
The Washington Nationals’ outfield should shape up in an interesting manner this for next year. Right field belongs to Bryce Harper and either center field or left field will go to Adam Eaton.
It’s the last spot that will presumably go to Michael Taylor following his breakout campaign, leaving the Nationals without a starting role for Werth, which may be the plan should they decide to keep the flame burning.
According to Jon Heyman of FanRag Sports, the idea of a one-year deal looks possible. Werth would likely need to accept a bench role, which itself would fill up the Nationals’ roster.
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Hypothetically, if Harper is in right field, Taylor is in center field, and Easton takes over in left field then the Nationals’ bench could include Werth and outfielder Brian Goodwin, meaning Victor Robles’ permanent stay in MLB will need to wait.
This alignment isn’t the worst plan, but does it make the Nationals better?
Werth is only useful against left-handed pitchers, so I don’t see him starting much. He could pinch hit regularly versus southpaws, but playing irregularly, though, is not something every player can do well.
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Werth’s bat could quickly go cold and his roster presence could ultimately backfire. Due to his own limitations, why not use Robles whose defense and speed could give the Nationals a greater weapon off the bench?
There are not many jobs out there for a right-handed corner outfielder nearing retirement. If the Washington Nationals pass on Werth, it might confirm his retirement.