Addition of Denard Span may trigger changes in position of players by Washington Nationals-MLB
As Washington Nationals obtain centre fielder Denard Span through a trade with Minnesota Twins, it can be the beginning of changes in position of some players in the team.
Bryce Harper will possibly be replaced by Span at centre field. Michael Morse might go to first base from left field, filling the spot of free agent Adam LaRoche.
If LaRoche is not hired by Washington during the offseason, the Nationals will have to find his successor at first base.
He won the Gold Glove Award in the last season at this position. His terrific shows, both in the field and at the plate, were one of the reasons why the Nationals won Division title in the National League East.
In light of this, losing him to another organisation after being unable to sign contract extension will not be good for the Nationals’ chances ahead in the 2013 season.
Right now, just the talks are underway and according to the reports, LaRoche wants extension of more than two years, which the Nationals are not willing to grant.
It is possible that Span has been included on the roster owing to an inability to reach an agreement with LaRoche.
Span is capable of delivering home-runs and the number of RBIs that LaRoche produced in the last season. Offsetting an impact of the absence of LaRoche will not be difficult for him.
Washington’s General Manager, Mike Rizzo has asserted the credentials of Span for becoming an integral component of the team, stating he can run fast and make excellent defensive plays.
"He's going to bring a dimension to the club that we haven't had before," Mike Rizzo said. "A fast-moving, exciting guy that makes contact and moves the guy around and can fly around the field."
Inclusion of Span has created another option for Washington. The club can trade Morse and sign LaRoche. Resultantly, they can have prospects for future development of the club and at the same time vacant spots on the roster will be filled.
It will be fascinating to observe how the Nationals respond to the number of options that they have for streamlining issues with the team.
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