Washington Nationals acquire Denard Span through a trade with Minnesota Twins - MLB Update
Centre fielder, Denard Span has joined the ranks of Washington Nationals as he has been traded by Minnesota Twins in exchange for pitcher Alex Meyer.
Twins, considering their needs for quality hurlers, agreed to the deal, despite the fact that Span had immense significance for their defence and offence.
A number of factors might have motivated the Nationals to carry out this deal.
First and foremost important among them can be the possible signing of free agent Adam LaRoche by some other organisation, which can leave the spot of first baseman vacant in Washington’s roster.
Having Span, they can be assured that Michael Morse will be shifted to first base from his current outfield position in case LaRoche does not play for the Nationals next year. Similarly, Span will assume the position of Morse.
The trade can also be a warning for LaRoche that the Nationals will not offer him beyond a particular extent. A higher demand from his part may result in ignorance by Washington and invoking other options.
The deal for more than two years that LaRoche reportedly is looking for may not be feasible for the Nationals.
An entry of Span in the line-up has also permitted Washington to move Jayson Werth down the line-up, which is his more natural position. Werth was used as a lead-off hitter during the 2012 season as the Nationals did not have any reliable batter for performing
this role.
Washington’s manager Davey Johnson can use Span as a lead-off man and draw the best possible shows from Werth by putting him at the middle of the line-up.
Facing trade rumours that are prevailing for the last two seasons was not easy for Span. However, he is happy now that he has found an organisation which is on the verge of winning Division titles consistently.
"Hearing trade talks and going through a concussion wasn't easy for me," said Span. "But fast-forward to today -- and I'm definitely ready. ... I'm ready to be coming to a team that is already in a place to win, and I just hope that I can come here and not
get in the way."
Span will be hoping that he fulfils the role that is expected by the team officials.
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