The Washington Nationals may make a quick set of moves. A potential trade of Matt Wieters opens up possibilities in several positions.
Is the Washington Nationals solution at catcher solved by trading away Matt Wieters? Yes, it is ironic. However, there might be something to this.
Friday, shortly before the Oakland Athletics signed free agent catcher Jonathan Lucroy, MLB.com’s Jane Lee—in a deleted tweet—said the Athletics were interested in Wieters. Any specifics, such as money eaten or players returned, were not mentioned.
The other variable not mentioned is crucial.
More from District on Deck
- Washington Nationals: Is Seth Lugo Still an Option?
- Robots in Baseball? The Possibility of an Automated Ball/Strike System in the MLB
- Washington Nationals Re-Sign RHP Erasmo Ramirez
- Washington Nationals Sign RHP Trevor Williams
- Washington Nationals find Success in First Draft Lottery
Were the A’s checking in on many catchers or was Mike Rizzo shopping around the veteran? If it was Oakland doing due diligence, then expect little. But, if the secretive Nats are shopping Wieters, then a bunch of puzzle pieces may change.
The obvious landing spot would be an American League team. Wieters would get the chance to catch and rest as a designated hitter. A switch behind the plate a couple times a week keeps him rested and improves his chances for a better contract once the season is over.
The Tampa Bay Rays are a good match. They have a starter to fill Washington’s rotation in Chris Archer along with old catching friend Wilson Ramos. Wieters best years came in the AL East with Baltimore and his veteran presence would strengthen the latest crop of youngsters at the Trop.
We know Washington has sights on Miami Marlins catcher J.T. Realmuto. As part of a package deal, Wieters and others could go south with the younger Realmuto in return. This fills the Nats catching need over the next couple seasons. For Wieters, however, it is a step down. Same young club as with Tampa without the DH possibility.
If a serious move is under discussion, Washington needs a catcher in return along with the other team taking on as much of Wieters $10.5 million due this year. With that off the tax bill, signing a free agent pitcher gets easier. Even Jake Arrieta.
Assume Wieters goes and the Nats nab Arrieta for $20 million per year, only $10 million goes on the competitive balance tax. Since Washington was over last year, they are taxed at 30 percent of the average annual value of payroll over $197 million this year.
Figure a high-priced free agent like Arrieta costs Washington an additional $3 million this year.
With weight loss, Wieters looks slimmer and is off to a good spring. Despite the rumors, the Nats are under no pressure to trade him unless they can substantially help the team.
Next: Previewing a potential Arrieta deal
Something to watch for over the next few days.