Staff Contributor Matt Weyrich:
Okay, I know what you’re thinking. The Nats went big and came up empty handed. Yes, Chris Sale looked like an awfully nice addition to the team’s rotation. But considering what the White Sox got for him, Mike Rizzo made the right choice to steer clear.
Yoan Moncada is arguably the top prospect in baseball, while Michael Kopech has hit 105 mph on the radar gun. The Nats’ equivalent package would have had to include Trea Turner, something Rizzo (rightfully) refused to do.
Wade Davis likely going to the Cubs hurts as well, but once again, it’s tough to blame Rizzo for losing out to a team that found Jorge Soler expendable. There are still plenty of closers available, leaving Washington with plenty of options.
The Nats are still on the lookout for outfield help, and now that they still have their farm system intact, they could make moves for several different names. They’ve reportedly reengaged with Pittsburgh for Andrew McCutchen, while kicking the tires on Kevin Kiermaier. Dexter Fowler still remains a free agent and names like J.D. Martinez and Adam Eaton loom as other outfielders who have been made available via trade.
It’s not time to panic yet Nats fans. This is a 95-win team in a weak division. There’s a long winter ahead.