MLB Free Agency: Five Potential Landing Spots for George Springer
By Travis Koch
The Washington Nationals’ Case for Springer
The Nationals require a shot in the arm after passively defending their 2019 MLB championship. Their top-heavy lineup craves depth, and while Springer would likely hit towards the top, his presence would surely make the Nats’ offense stronger as a whole.
Juan Soto will have a place in Washington’s pastures until he decides otherwise, though as incredible as he is, he can’t play all three outfield positions.
Right now, the Nationals are unsure of what they have in center fielder Victor Robles. Robles’ struggles spanned the batter’s box all the way to center field during a truncated 2020 campaign. He hit .220 with a sub-.300 OBP and a horrid .315 SLG, plus his glovework yielded a disappointing -4 DRS. He’s far too talented to lose the Nats’ best interests anytime soon. That said, Washington could let George Springer take charge while Robles figures things out, or in case he never does.
The Nationals have an opening for Springer regardless of their plans for Robles. Soto is the only untouchable in their current outfield, and it helps that Springer can play any of the three outfield positions.
If Washington feels that 2020 was a fluke season and that a 2021 turnaround is inevitable, then a four or five-year offer to George Springer makes excellent sense.