Washington Nationals Prospects that could be dealt at the trade deadline
By Blake Finney
Carter Kieboom: SS/3B – Nationals #3 Prospect
Obviously, the big name to watch with the Washington Nationals this July is Carter Kieboom. If Mike Rizzo plans to make a huge move this winter, Kieboom will have to be part of the package.
Kieboom is having a monster season in 2018 and has been rewarded with a promotion to Double-A. Between the Potomac Nationals and Harrisburg Senators, he’s hitting .307 with 13 home runs and a .880 OPS.
The younger Kieboom had always been well regarded for his contact and being able to hit for a good average. But the power has really taken a step forward this season and had him rising up prospect lists.
With the 13 he has this year, he’s now doubled his professional career total in 30 fewer games. As a result, MLB.com did a re-rank of some prospects, and the Nationals’ shortstop was a big mover.
In pre-season, he was ranked at #90 and now sits at #62, but he could easily be a top 50 prospect in short order.
Throughout his professional career, he’s roamed shortstop since being drafted in 2016. However, some prospect evaluators believe that he may profile better at third base with an electric arm.
The Nats could see him as insurance if Anthony Rendon departs in free agency. On the other hand, they could make a significant upgrade either in the rotation or behind the plate by surrendering Kieboom.
So only expect to see him go if the Nationals go get a controllable star, but it could happen.