Washington Nationals: Predicting what their 12 free agents will do
By Drew Douglas
Alejandro de Aza
After being cut by the Oakland A’s in Spring Training, Alejandro de Aza spent most of the first half as a free agent. Then, the Nats signed him to a minor league deal in June and a myriad of outfield injuries gave him an opportunity in the majors in August.
While de Aza was unspectacular with the Nats, he could have been worse. They did not really have any expectations for him at the major league level, so he did not necessarily disappoint.
In 28 games, de Aza had a slash line of .194/.224/.323 with nine RBI’s and eight runs scored. He also played all three outfield positions, which was extremely beneficial with so many outfielders on the disabled list.
The highlight of de Aza’s time with the Nats came on September 28, when he hit a walk-off single against the Pittsburgh Pirates.
The Nats have a packed outfield with Adam Eaton, Michael Taylor, Bryce Harper, Brian Goodwin, and Victor Robles all returning, but history goes to show that you can never have enough depth.
If de Aza wants to come back on a minor league deal and serve as outfield depth, he would absolutely be worth signing. However, the Nats’ current situation does not allow them to promise him any major league playing time.
de Aza probably will not play a large role in the Nats’ 2018 season, but his versatility and veteran presence make him worth bringing back on a minor league deal. If he does return to the Nats, he would likely see at least a little time in the majors.