Adam LaRoche refuses mutual option with Washington Nationals as he tests free agency - MLB Update
First baseman Adam LaRoche has not considered the option that Washington Nationals exercised. Instead, he has decided to enter into free agent market.
By doing so, he has made the Nationals face competition from other clubs with regards to being acquired by one of them.
LaRoche enjoyed tremendous success, both at the plate and in the field during 2012 regular season. He was consistent in hitting home-runs and producing RBIs for the team. Even in the face of injuries to the players, he remained prolific offensively, making
sure that the Nationals stay afloat.
His contributions have been recognised now as he earns the Gold Glove Award at first base. He joins the list of a very few players that have achieved this honour while playing for the Nationals.
While the Nationals want to keep him in the club, he has taken a different route. By declining the mutual option, he has intended to clinch an expensive deal from free agency.
Nationals will be bidding on him in the market. Just in case some other clubs offer LaRoche a better deal, they will play without their Gold Glove winner next year.
LaRoche signed a two-year deal with the Nationals in 2011. His incredible performances in the last two seasons are worthwhile enough that the Nationals grant him a contract extension.
Assured that he can fetch more money by invoking free agency, LaRoche has not paid heed to the interests of the Nationals. He has put them into a dilemma by making it hard for them to retain him.
Washington will be reviewing various options in the offseason and choosing the most appropriate one. It will be interesting to see how far they can go in keeping LaRoche in the club.
Even more fascinating will be the amount of money they are willing to grant LaRoche.
Against the backdrop of an immaculate performance in 2012 season, it can be expected that LaRoche clinches the desired deal in the offseason. He can encourage the clubs to lock him down for a number of years.
Regardless of which team LaRoche plays for next year, he has certainly put the Nationals in a position to make a tough decision about him.
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