Washington Nationals: Matt Wieters Signing Opens Other Doors
By Ron Juckett
RIZZO HAS HIS GROOVE BACK
Sure, maybe Wieters to Washington was inevitable from the start. Scott Boras and the Nationals have a productive relationship where both sides benefit.
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Yet, after a winter of uncertainty, adding Wieters to the fold could not come at a better time. Within the last few weeks, Rizzo re-signed Stephen Drew, grabbed Adam Lind for a song and now has Wieters.
With solid internal options ready for the audition for the setup and closer roles, he now has a trade chip should he need it. Since the end of 2017, he has secured a legitimate centerfielder, brought in solid bench depth and now has replaced the popular Ramos. If he can land an established closer from this, Washington starts 2017 with every major hole filled.
Yes, starting pitching depth is a concern and there are bullpen roles that remain unsettled, but the Nationals plow ahead towards 2017 with a healthy club that can contend with the Chicago Cubs and Los Angeles Dodgers as the best team in the National League.
With Wieters, the payroll sits above $160 million and permission to take more if needed.
As with sausage making, watching how it fits together is not pretty. Sometimes, it is rather ugly. In the end, it tastes wonderful.
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