Washington Nationals: Who Is Catching When It Counts?
By Ron Juckett
WILSON RAMOS
Although he hopes to be ready by May, July is the more realistic option for Ramos’ return following his second torn right ACL.
The 2016 Silver Slugger and All-Star, both Ramos and Washington made clear their mutual interest. Before his injury against the Arizona Diamondbacks, the Nats reportedly low-balled him an offer of three-years and $30 million.
Ramos wanted, and would have received, a contract similar to Brian McCann’s five-year/$85 million deal shared now by the Yankees and Astros. With the injury not as bad as feared, he may not need to go to the American League and be a designated hitter and catcher.
If, and this is a big if, Washington and Ramos can agree to terms on an incentive-laden deal, this is the likely timeframe set for his return. Washington grabs a long look at what Severino can and cannot do and they start the stretch with their All-Star catcher in the fold.
With team’s such as the Baltimore Orioles—hot after Nick Hundley—and the Atlanta Braves desperate for catchers, Ramos still could get his wanted money elsewhere.
Until he gets further along in his rehab, it is hard to say what is a fair contract to offer Ramos. His value to the Nats is huge, but do they pay top dollar for a twice-injured catcher who is available half a year?