Yoan Moncada, a former top prospect, recently had his option declined by the Chicago White Sox and will become a free agent for the first time in his career this Winter. Nationals GM Mike Rizzo should consider signing Moncada to fill the void at third base until top prospect Brady House is ready to man the steed. Signing Yoan would be a relatively cheap option coming off some tough injuries and somewhat poor play.
As we know, third base has been a gaping hole in the Nationals lineup since Anthony Rendon's departure following the 2019 World Series victory. Rendon set a precedent that is tough to beat, but signing Moncada wouldn't be an attempt to replicate that success. The goal with Yoan would be similar to the Jeimer Candelario signing two offseasons ago, trying to flip a veteran player for a prospect at the deadline.
Moncada played in games in the 2024 season due to a left abductor strain. He's dealt with a plethora of injuries his entire career, and it would be a long shot to ask him to play in 162 games. The thinking behind this signing is to find the success Yoan had back in 2019, where he hit .279 with 25 home runs and 79 RBI. He posted a career-high .915 OPS that season and has yet to eclipse .800 in any other season. Injuries have taken Moncada's career in an odd path, changing his identity from an extra-base hit threat to not having one. He's not on the field enough to establish an identity as a player.
A one-year, $5 million deal for Moncada would be more than reasonable. Declaring him the starting third baseman upon signing would be beneficial, as he would prepare this offseason as a starter. He'd have more confidence going to a new city and team as a starting third-baseman. If Yoan plays well in the 2025 season, flip him to a team needing a third baseman for a top-20 prospect in their system and call it a successful signing. If he gets hurt or struggles, cut ties at the end of the season. Signings like this don't have to be complicated, take a chance on a struggling player and see what you get. Last season it was Joey Gallo, and it didn't work out, it happens. In 2023, it was Jeimer Candelario; now we've got DJ Herz in the starting rotation.