Washington Nationals: 5 things they must do in 2018

By Ron Juckett | Mar 22, 2018

WASHINGTON, DC - OCTOBER 13: Daniel Murphy #20 of the Washington Nationals reacts after scoring on an RBI single by Michael Taylor of the Washington Nationals against the Chicago Cubs during the eighth inning in game five of the National League Division Series at Nationals Park on October 13, 2017 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Win McNamee/Getty Images) /

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RE-SIGN ANTHONY RENDON LONG TERM

Although re-signing Harper is a bonus, and likely considering the state of how free agency went this year, keeping Anthony Rendon in DC for years to come is essential.

Rendon’s unassuming personality and leadership is what you build teams around. His defense is stellar. From his power to his ability to wear down pitchers and drive up pitch counts, you do not let that talent get away.

Rendon has one more year of arbitration left. He will play in Washington in 2019. But, as the Nats plan for a future possibly without Harper, locking down Rendon is crucial. Yes, the money is there to keep both.

As with Ryan Zimmerman, locking down Rendon before he gets a whiff of free agency makes sense. Gold Glove-caliber third baseman are hard to find. He finished sixth last year in the NL MVP vote and turns 28 in June. Driving in 100 runs while smashing 41 doubles and 25 dingers will do that.

Add his ability to steal bases, a huge part of the new Washington offense, and you have the complete package. He will not be cheap, but nowhere near as pricey as Harper. Rendon is too vital and popular to walk.

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