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Washington Nationals: Extension required to land Max Scherzer

By David Hill

Jun 25, 2021; Miami, Florida, USA; Washington Nationals pitcher Max Scherzer (31) tosses a baseball in the dugout late in the game against the Miami Marlins at loanDepot Park. Mandatory Credit: Jim Rassol-USA TODAY Sports
Jun 25, 2021; Miami, Florida, USA; Washington Nationals pitcher Max Scherzer (31) tosses a baseball in the dugout late in the game against the Miami Marlins at loanDepot Park. Mandatory Credit: Jim Rassol-USA TODAY Sports /
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It seemed to be a foregone conclusion that the Washington Nationals would be sellers at the trade deadline. After all, at the beginning of June, they were languishing in the basement of the NL East, seemingly dead in the water. However, a hot June has moved the Nationals into second place in the division, just four games behind the Mets for the lead.

The Nationals’ slow start led to plenty of trade speculation. One of the bigger names bandied about was Max Scherzer, an impending free agent who would easily be one of, if not the, top arm in the trade market. The problem is, he has a full no trade clause and can dictate where he wants to go.

Max Scherzer wants extension to leave Washington Nationals

Scherzer would be costly for any team interested in his services. Not only would that team need to part with several top prospects, but Scherzer would need an incentive to waive his no trade clause. According to his agent, Scott Boras, that incentive would have to come in the form of a multi-year contract extension.

Scherzer is all of us. light. More Nationals

Based on his production this sesaon, such a deal may not seem to be an impediment to a trade. He has posted an strong 2.14 ERA and a 0.826 WHiP over his 82.1 innings entering Saturday, striking out 112 batters with just 18 walks. He has been just as impressive as ever.

Even with his strong showing and excellent track record, it is fair to wonder how long he can continue at this pace. Scherzer will be turning 37 years old at the end of July, and may eventually begin to slow down. Considering the type of financial reward Scherzer and his representatives would likely be looking for, such a deal carries a degree of risk.

That risk may well be worth it. Banners fly forever, and even the best prospects can bust. Scherzer, even though he will likely begin to fade, is far more of a proven commodity. For a team looking to shore up their rotation, both this season and into the future, such a cost may not seem so daunting.

Next. Nationals heating back up. dark

If the Washington Nationals begin to fade once more, Max Scherzer will be one of the bigger names on the trade block. Just be prepared to pay heavily.

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