Javier Vazquez Says Nationals Interest In Him Is Mutual
By Jared Book
We already mentioned that the Washington Nationals had sent a scout to watch Javier Vazquez in Puerto Rico as he eyes a possible return to the Major Leagues.
March 24, 2011; Jupiter, FL, USA; Florida Marlins starting pitcher Javier Vazquez (23) throws a pitch during a spring training game against the Boston Red Sox at Roger Dean Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Barr-USA TODAY Sports
Well, Vazquez, who started his career with the Montreal Expos, told MLB.com’s Bill Ladson that he would consider the Nationals even though it looks like they have no current openings in their rotation.
Vazquez is exactly the type of depth that the Nationals should be stocking up with. They do have a lack of depth in the minor leagues in starting pitching and not many players are interested in gearing up for a start of the season in AAA. However, the Nationals staff was exceptionally healthy last year and the odds of that happening in back to back years is small. Players who come into camp as the No. 6 or 7 options will be the first ones called up at the sign of trouble. Vazquez can even fill out a long relief role as he adjusts to the Majors again.
The Nationals will need more than just one pitcher to fill out their pitching staffs at all levels but Vazquez is that type of low-risk, potentially high reward as he has shown he has the talent to succeed at this level, at least when not playing for the New York Yankees.
Vazquez, like Dan Haren, won’t come in expected to be the ace they once were. They will be expected to step in, eat innings at a rate at or above league average and kill time while the Nationals younger prospects take an extra year of development.
There are several guys looking for jobs out there. Vazquez is but one, but there are few who can be considered a better fit before even taking into account Vazquez’s history with the Nationals organization.