Washington Nationals may be in the hunt for a starting pitcher in offseason - MLB Update
Edwin Jackson deserted Washington Nationals when his contribution was needed the most. Brought in the playoffs on the premise that his experience will help the Nationals, he fared even worse than some of the pitchers that did not play in the post-season
before.
He leaked runs in an important match against the St. Louis Cardinals during the National League Division Series.
In light of the fact that one of the members of the Nationals’ five-man rotation disappointed them, they will be looking for a reliable arm in the offseason as his replacement. They may visit the free agency market and sign deals with some pitchers.
The Nationals are known for acquiring hurlers that show amazing power on the mound and that rely more on strike-outs than other means of finishing the innings.
They have the likes of Stephen Strasburg and Gio Gonzalez whose existence in their rotation reflects the kind of pitchers they generally want to add in the team.
In-fact the trio of Strasburg, Gonzalez and Jordan Zimmermann belong to more or less the same category. Ross Detwiler, who is also a member of their pitching staff, can be considered a bit of a deviation from the Nationals' standard.
Another arm is required for the Nationals that can give their rotation stability and complete the package of pitchers that will lead them in the upcoming season.
Most probably Jackson will not be retained for next year by the Nationals. This will make their management brainstorm for a new acquisition.
There are a number of names that can attract their attention in the offseason but signing deals with them will require a huge outflow of cash.
Zack Greinke and Anibal Sanchez can be among the few hurlers that the Nationals will be eyeing.
Both of them by and large fit their criteria as they possess amazing fastballs.
Clinching an agreement with Zack Greinke will be tough. Against the backdrop of his impressive past record, he may expect an extravagant deal. On the other hand, Sanchez can come to terms easily if the Nationals show interest in his acquisition.
It will be interesting to see which pitcher they hire to fill their fifth spot in the rotation.
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