Washington Nationals: 2017 trade deadline preview
By Ron Juckett
OUTFIELDER
When Adam Eaton’s season ended versus the New York Mets, there was reason for concern.
Michael Taylor’s other chances to earn the job had failed. A .216 average and his swinging at any pitch within the area code did not bode well for the future. Over the two months since, he changed that thinking. His defense is stellar and the short, compact swing has a BAbip of .361.
Although some wish for Lorenzo Cain from the Kansas City Royals or Andrew McCutchen—who the Nats wanted badly last fall—Taylor won the job and may carry it into next season.
Replacing Jayson Werth is different.
Since going down with a foot contusion in Oakland, Brian Goodwin and Ryan Raburn have filled in. How long before Werth returns is a mystery as are most injuries for Washington. For now, the combo has done the job.
Provided Werth returns and the injury bug stays away, there is no reason to send prospects away for an outfielder. Alejandro De Aza is in Triple-A with Syracuse and can fill in when needed.
If they lose Bryce Harper, you cannot replace him without a boatload of prospects.
As with Lobaton, upgrades would be nice but not a necessity.