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Washington Nationals: Nicholas Castellanos a perfect fit

By Drew Douglas |

With the Washington Nationals reportedly exploring the outfield trade market, Nicholas Castellanos could be a perfect fit.

Despite the fact that Jayson Werth will likely be playing elsewhere in 2018, the Washington Nationals are set to boast one of the best outfield trios in the league. Adam Eaton, Michael Taylor, and Bryce Harper all excel both at the plate and in the field, forming an exciting trio.

However, Taylor’s name has come up in a few trade rumors this off-season, and he appears to be the Nats’ top trade chip. With Victor Robles not quite ready for an everyday role, a Taylor trade would likely be followed by another move to acquire an outfielder.

If this is the case, Nicholas Castellanos could be a perfect fit for the Nats. Castellanos, 25, is coming off of the best season of his career, making him an attractive trade target.

Prior to 2017, Castellanos played third base almost exclusively. However, the Tigers converted him to an outfielder in 2017, and he split time between third base and the outfield.

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If the Nats were to trade for Castellanos, he would primarily play left field, but could fill in at third base when needed. Anthony Rendon has proven to be a bit injury-prone at times, so Castellanos’ versatility could be beneficial.

In addition to providing defensive versatility, Castellanos is a force at the plate. In 2017, he owned a slash line of .272/.320/.490 to go with 26 homers and 101 RBI’s. His ten triples also led the American League.

One of his most valuable traits, which may be overlooked at times, is his ability to stay on the field. Castellanos has played at least 145 games in three of his four full big league seasons, including playing in 157 games in 2017. Considering the Nats’ injury history, especially regarding outfielders, Castellanos’ durability would be a welcome addition.

Castellanos’ contract also plays into the Nats’ future plans perfectly. He is under team control for two more seasons, so he could become a free agent after 2019.

The Nats could go with an outfield of Castellanos, Eaton, and Harper in 2018, which would be a great trio. However, Harper’s contract expires after 2018. If Harper departs in free agency, Robles could come up and take over in right field.

By 2019, Juan Soto will be knocking on the door. If Castellanos departs in free agency after 2019, then Soto could come up and take over in left field. If Soto and Robles tap into the potential that they are believed to possess, they could form a great outfield for years to come.

Robles and Soto, the Nats’ top two prospects, appear to be ready to embark on fantastic careers, but are not quite ready. Castellanos would serve as a terrific outfielder for a couple years, and could bridge the gap to Robles and Soto perfectly.

Finally, the idea of Castellanos possibly being traded this off-season is relatively realistic. The Tigers were tied for the worst record in the majors in 2017, and could begin a rebuild soon. If they choose to tear everything up and start over, Castellanos is one of their best trade chips.

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Considering Castellanos’ youth, offensive prowess, defensive versatility, and team-friendly contract, he could be a perfect fit for the Nats. While there is certainly a chance that Taylor is still donning the curly W come April, meaning the Nats do not need to acquire an outfielder, Castellanos is worth keeping in mind.

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