The Washington Nationals are already the strongest team in the National League East on paper. The Nationals have in their starting rotation Jordan Zimmermann, Steven Strasburg, Doug Fister, Gio Gonzalez, and Tanner Roark. One would think that the rotation was just fine as it is. But a report suggests that the Nationals could land themselves one of the top available pitchers in the game.
Ken Rosenthal of Fox Sports reports:
Source: Max Scherzer is close to signing a seven-year deal. Between #Nationals and one other club. First reported: @JonHeymanCBS
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) January 18, 2015
This could affect the Phillies in many ways.
For one, the Phillies could face competition in dealing an ace pitcher. There have been many rumors that the Nationals could trade Jordan Zimmermann to replenish the Nationals prospect pool. If Zimmermann is traded, the Phillies might have a harder time dealing Cole Hamels.
If the Nationals keep Zimmermann, that is one more ace pitcher off of the starting pitcher market. This could help the Phillies in that regard, because the teams in need of an ace pitcher are essentially left with only James Shields as an option. And Hamels is much stronger of a pitcher than Shields.
Scherzer's agent Scott Boras and the Washington Nationals have had a strong relationship over the years. The Nationals' trade of Tyler Clippard in exchange for Yunel Escobar saved the Nationals some money and could also lead to a trade of shortstop Ian Desmond. Trading Desmond would be an easier sell to the fans if Scherzer is signed.
If not a trade of Zimmermann, the Nationals could have money for Scherzer, protect themselves when Zimmermann leaves as a free agent next year, and bring in some young prospects.
