Washington Nationals: Grading Mike Rizzo’s 10 best free-agent signings

Washington Nationals: Grading Mike Rizzo’s 10 best free agent signings

By Brian Foley | Dec 26, 2017

CHICAGO, IL - OCTOBER 11: General mananger Mike Rizzo of the Washington Nationals speaks to the media before game four of the National League Division Series against the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field on October 11, 2017 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images) /

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Adam LaRoche (2011-14)

Rizzo brought in smooth lefty LaRoche prior to the 2011 season on a two-year, $15 million contract.

After an injury-plagued season in his first year, LaRoche bounced back with a .271/.343/.510 slash line and career highs in home runs (33) and RBIs (100) as the Nationals made their first-ever postseason. LaRoche finished sixth in 2012 MVP voting and collected Gold Glove and Silver Slugger honors.

After his monster year, Rizzo rewarded LaRoche with another two-year contract, this time worth $24 million. While he never reached his 2012 heights again, he still posted exceedingly solid numbers.

From 2012-14, LaRoche finished in the top 10 in games played, home runs, RBIs, runs, walk rate, and defensive runs saved among all qualified first baseman. That is excellent value for just $39 million across four seasons.

By comparison, LaRoche’s 112 OPS+ with Washington was one point higher than Eric Hosmer’s career mark in Kansas City, and Hosmer is currently looking for $150 million on the free agent market.

Grade: B+

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