District On Deck
FanSided

Nationals Rumors: Mike Rizzo may include Victor Robles in J.T. Realmuto deal

By Blake Finney

MIAMI, FL - JULY 15: J.T. Realmuto #11 of the Miami Marlins throws towards first base during the eighth inning against the Philadelphia Phillies at Marlins Park on July 15, 2018 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Eric Espada/Getty Images)
MIAMI, FL - JULY 15: J.T. Realmuto #11 of the Miami Marlins throws towards first base during the eighth inning against the Philadelphia Phillies at Marlins Park on July 15, 2018 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Eric Espada/Getty Images) /
facebooktwitterreddit

The MLB Trade Deadline creeps closer, Washington Nationals rumors are circulating. Some sources now think they could trade Victor Robles for J.T. Realmuto.

It’s just over two weeks until the MLB Trade Deadline. Everyone loves some Washington Nationals rumors. The latest is one that could lead to a blockbuster deal, with Victor Robles potentially being dealt for J.T. Realmuto.

The Nats have had a long-standing interest in the Miami Marlins catcher, dating back to the winter. But previously, discussions have stalled due to Mike Rizzo’s reluctance to let go of his prized prospects.

But now, in Jon Heyman‘s latest article on the subject, he says that some people in the industry believe the Nationals are considering putting Robles on the table. Although Heyman says this is unconfirmed.

More from District on Deck

"“The Nationals, who checked in with the Marlins several weeks back, have been looking to upgrade their catching situation as they struggle to play to expectations in the surprising NL East. Some think they might consider including top outfield prospect Victor Robles in a package for Realmuto. If true — and that’s unconfirmed— that might change the Marlins’ willingness to move the newly-minted All-Star backstop.”"

This would be a huge development in trade negotiations, and if true, is one that may get the deal done. Robles is a consensus top-ten prospect in all of baseball, no matter who you ask, and would be a valuable centerpiece for anybody.

His 2018 season was derailed by an injury in just the fourth game of the year but he’s finally working his way back. Through six rehab games with the GCL Nationals, he’s 5 for 13 with six runs and even four stolen bases. Once again, Robles is looking like the dynamic talent he was beforehand.

But with J.T. Realmuto being a potentially game-changing talent behind the plate, dealing the young outfielder could be worth it. So far this season, Realmuto is slashing .310/.365/.536 with 12 home runs and has a 3.5 WAR, which is one WAR higher than the next nearest.

He’s not just a bat-only catcher either as, according to FanGraphs, he still has a top-ten Defensive Rating. So if the Nationals were to acquire him, despite their record, it would vault them back into playoff contention.

If Robles were included, the Marlins may need a few other mid-tier prospects in order to get the deal done. Perhaps Raudy Read and Jefry Rodriguez who are both nearly major league ready. But obviously Robles would be the key to a deal moving closer, and the other pieces would probably fall into place.

Next: Five potential starting rotation targets

This would be one of the biggest Nationals rumors of the year if Mike Rizzo is willing to let Victor Robles go. But if anyone is worth it, it’ll be J.T. Realmuto, who is arguably the best catcher in the game.

Home/Nationals Rumors