Strasburg deal to return to Nationals may help Rangers in Rendon sweepstakes, but ...
The Texas Rangers received indications early this off-season that right-handed ace Stephen Strasburg would re-sign with the Washington Nationals after opting out of their contract with them.
That’s what he did Monday during the first day of the winter meetings, landing a seven-year deal worth $245 million. That’s a record for a starting pitcher, and potentially very good news for the Rangers.
The Nationals were considered a primary suitor for free-agent third baseman Anthony Rendon, who has emerged as the Rangers’ top target this off-season.
The massive contract given to Strasburg would appear to eliminate the Nationals from the Rendon sweepstakes. Heading into these meetings, Nationals owner Mark Lerner said that the reigning World Series champions could not afford both Strasburg and Rendon.
However, Nationals general manager Mike Rizzo threw cold water on his boss’ comments.
“I don’t see this in any way hindering us from the elite players in the game,” he said. “When you look at those comments and then you look at the structure of this particular deal, Mark realizes there are ways to fit players in.
“There are ways to field a championship roster. The resources have always been there. I don’t expect that to change.”
If the Nationals are out out on Rendon, they are considered players for the runner-up prize at third base, Josh Donaldson. After Donaldson, the free-agent market at third declines sharply, and teams might be better served seeking trade possibilities if they miss out on Rendon and Donaldson.
This story was originally published December 9, 2019 at 3:18 PM.
