Washington Nationals: Trade Proposals For Juan Soto
By Max Rayman
Los Angeles Dodgers
A year ago, the Dodgers sent four prospects to the Washington Nationals for Trea Turner and Max Scherzer — so it makes sense for the two teams to engage in another blockbuster trade. The Dodgers have been relatively quiet on the Soto front, but if they wanted to go all in, they have the pieces to pull it off.
Would the Dodgers be willing to part with two of their young core and their top three prospects? Probably not, but this should be around the Nationals’ asking price — two young MLB-ready players and the Dodger’s top three prospects.
Dustin May is still recovering from Tommy John surgery, but has the potential to become the Dodger’s next ace. In 113 2/3 career innings, he’s 6-5, with a 2.93 ERA, 111 strikeouts, and a 3.83 FIP.
After showing glimpses throughout the first few years of his career, Gavin Lux is finally breaking out — hitting .303, with four homers, 30 RBIs, and an OPS of .810 in 91 games this year. A swiss army knife, Lux can play all over the infield and outfield and would bring much-needed versatility to D.C.
Despite already having Keibert Ruiz behind the plate, a Soto deal with the Dodgers would have to include their top prospect, catcher Diego Cartaya. Ruiz has already established himself behind the plate — he’s tied with J.T. Realmuto for first in runners caught stealing, but he’s been unable to hit for power. Cartaya on the other hand is slugging .529, with eight homers and a .936 OPS in 36 games at A+. Cartaya’s bat looks to be the real thing and he can slot in at DH.
Rounding out this trade proposal are RHP Bobby Miller and second basemen Michael Busch — the Dodger’s second and third-ranked prospects. Miller has an impressive four-pitch mix led by his 70-grade fastball that can touch triple digits. Currently, at AA he is 5-4, with a 4.36 ERA, and 95 strikeouts. Busch is at AAA, slashing .271/.336/.496, with 12 homers, 40 RBIs, and an OPS of .832.
This would be a massive haul for the Dodgers to give up, but adding Soto would allow for the team to let Trea Turner walk in the off-season. It is unlikely the Dodgers agree to this, but this is the type of package the Nats need to strive for.