5. Rendon leaves Washington to the division rival Phillies
Unlike his former teammate, Anthony Rendon appears to be on his way out of Washington. The Nationals simply cannot afford the high price he will require.
Rendon is undoubtedly the best position player in MLB free agency. He has gotten better every single year, and he cemented himself as one of the game’s top superstars in 2019. He finished with an impressive .319/.412/.598 slashline with a career-high 34 home runs and a league leading 126 RBIs. His excellence continued in October, as the Nationals took home the World Series title.
There is a lot that would keep Rendon in Washington, but the money on the table might be too much for Rendon to remain loyal. He will most likely receive a contract similar to Nolan Arenado’s eight year, $260 million extension he signed last year. Rendon’s comments about not wanting to player past 36 have raised questions, but the generous offers he will receive will likely change any reservations.
Suitors are already lining out the door, and the Philadelphia Phillies are right in the thick of the race. The Phillies have a noticeable hole at third base, as Maikel Franco has failed to live up to his potential. They are desperate to return to contender status with new manager Joe Girardi at the helm. They already gave Bryce Harper a massive thirteen year contract, and they will be aggressive in their pursuit of Rendon. Expect Harper and Rendon to reunite in Philadelphia.
Contract Prediction: seven years, $224 million