Who's the Nats' opening day starter?
There's little doubt that Washington's rotation is vastly improved with the addition of lefty Gio Gonzalez and righty Edwin Jackson, via trade and free agency, respectively. They join holdover right-handers Jordan Zimmermann, who won't be on an innings limit this season now that he's a full season removed from Tommy John surgery, and Stephen Strasburg, who will be because he isn't. Throw in veteran righty Chien-Ming Wang and the Nationals don't even seen to have room for lefties John Lannan, Tom Gorzelanny and Ross Detwiler, or right-handers Craig Stammen and Yuneksy Maya.
It's a far cry from the mound cattle calls of spring past.
But let's be serious, the discussion concerning who takes the ball in Chicago on the season's first Thursday afternoon really boils down to three names: Strasburg, Zimmermann and Gonzalez. No offense to Jackson or Wang, but they're more back-of-the-rotation guys who will be counted upon to eat up innings and protect the bullpen from being overworked.
There's a lot of sentiment for Strasburg to get the nod. In fact, he probably would have had Tommy John surgery not ruined his ascent into baseball's stratosphere. He possesses the best stuff on the staff and has the aura of a No. 1 starter. And he will be - probably not this season, though. The Nationals need to protect his surgically repaired right elbow, and we discussed earlier this week a variety of ways they can do that. And as much as the Nats would like to trot him out to dominate the Cubs on April 5, it's not the prudent move. The weather definitely factors in here; in fact, there are some in the organization that would like to see Strasburg skipped entirely during the first road trip through Chicago and New York, where early April temps can be brutal. If the Nats opened in Miami or another warm-weather climate, Strasburg might be the choice. But probably not this year.
Gonzalez is the flashy newcomer, and as a guy most of the National League isn't familiar with, he could be a nice choice. His sample size against the Cubs is small - one game in which he lasted five innings and pitched to a 10.80 ERA, taking the loss - but the lefty is 3-3 with a 2.54 ERA in 10 career interleague starts while in Oakland. But if you throw Gonzalez in the opener, that leaves the possibility of four right-handers to follow, which tilts the advantage to an opponent with left-handed bats. He'd be better as the No. 2 man in the rotation at this point, splitting at least two of the righties.
That leaves Zimmermann, who is primed to build on a 2011 campaign where he went 8-11 with a 3.18 ERA in 26 starts. With no innings limit this season, he can be turned loose. Scouts rave about his repertoire and his bulldog mentality. Rival general managers think he's in line for a breakthrough season, just what the Nationals expected when they snagged him in the second round of the 2007 draft. Zimmermann's an easy going enough guy that he wouldn't be disappointed if the Nats bypassed him in favor of someone with more experience or flash, but he's earned the honor.
Will he get it? We'll see, once manager Davey Johnson starts penciling in pitchers to face Grapefruit League competition. Even if Johnson plays coy with his announcement of an opening day starter, we'll pretty much know by the second week of spring training who's in line for that start.
Whaddaya think?: If you're Johnson, who takes the ball April 5 at Wrigley Field? Why? Would you risk pitching Strasburg in less-than-optimal weather conditions?
]]>Baseball America promised a revised ranking in mid-March to accommodate changes since the original listings. Nationals general manager Mike Rizzo used the occasion as an opportunity to pump the depth in the organization, carefully culled from several strong drafts. Mid-March seemed like an eternity away.
Well, six weeks isn't so long, and today came a harbinger that the Nats' system has taken a hit in the Gonzalez trade - ESPN's Keith Law, in his annual preseason ranking of the top farm systems, puts the Nationals at No. 21 out of 30 teams.
The whole list is available only to ESPN Insiders, but the first page available to all viewers only shows the No. 1 team, the Padres, who grabbed top honors despite trading their most major league-ready prospect, first baseman Anthony Rizzo, to the Cubs.
Of the Nationals, Law says: "This was potentially a top-10 system before the Gio Gonzalez trade, no worse than top 15. But after dealing A.J. Cole, Brad Peacock and Derek Norris - probably three of the Nats' top 10 guys before the Gio swap - this system lacks depth."
Pretty sobering stuff, but consider that it's just one guy's opinion (albeit a writer with extensive knowledge of the minor league systems across the game). Rankings, as always, are subjective. The Nationals' system is by no means barren, but it'll take a year or so for guys like infielder Anthony Rendon, right-hander Alex Meyer, outfielder Brian Goodwin and left-hander Matt Purke - all taken in June's First-Year Player Draft - to make an impact.
If it makes you feel better, only one National League East team ranked ahead of the Nationals - the Braves at No. 17. Behind the Nats are the Mets (No. 22), the Phillies (No. 25) and the Marlins (No. 28).
]]>Strasburg? Mention the right-hander with the arsenal that runs the gamut from batter-freezing changeups to triple-digit heat, and residents of NatsTown smile in anticipation of what's to come now that Strasburg is slated for a full season following his partial 2011, thanks to recovery from Tommy John ligament replacement surgery.
The enthusiasm is a bit tempered because it's unknown just how many innings Strasburg will pitch and, therefore, how long he'll be in the rotation before the Nats shut him down as a precaution. They don't want to overwork him coming off Tommy John, the same strategy they used when Zimmermann was coming back from the same procedure in 2010. You can debate the merits of the conservative approach, wondering how it will impact the Nationals should they remain in contention, but there will be an innings limit. That's a given.
Right now, an over/under of about 160 innings has been established for Strasburg. This is based on the fact that Zimmermann logged 161 1/3 innings last season, which is convenient to use as a template but doesn't take into consideration Strasburg's penchant for dominant performances and quick innings. Because he's more pitch-efficient, I wouldn't be surprised to see Strasburg get some leeway - maybe closer to 170 innings, perhaps a tad more - so the real question becomes how many innings will Strasburg pitch and how will the Nationals parse out those innings to maximize the amount of time they've got him in the rotation.
If the Nationals held Strasburg to five innings an outing, he could cram 32 starts into a 160-inning limit. That would take Strasburg into September, and that would certainly help his drawing power for home games, which were more well-attended than those dates started by others in the past. But it wouldn't get Strasburg deep into September - or into the postseason, should the Nationals contend. And there are doubts that all of Strasburg's vaunted energy and intensity could be harnessed into shorter stints. For example, can you imagine the discussion between manager Davey Johnson and his burgeoning ace when the skipper has to remove Strasburg in a 1-1 game on a day when the Nationals aren't hitting and Strasburg is handcuffing the opposition? It wouldn't be pleasant. Nor would balancing the team's need to protect the pitcher against his competitive desire when he has almost half a game less time to factor into a decision.
Maybe the Nationals want to just get creative with the rotation, juggling the placement of starting pitchers throughout the season to squeeze a few extra starts out of Strasburg. This would be pretty easy - make him the No. 4 or No. 5 starter and then use the occasional off day as a planned respite from pitching (while still letting Strasburg go through all of his normal between-starts routines). Save a couple of starts in the first half of the season, use the All-Star break as another breather and have Strasburg start the fourth or fifth game back from the break - that might push him a little further into the season's waning weeks. Early in the season, the Nats could hold him back from pitching in places where the weather might be cold and damp - say, that opening series in Chicago from April 5-8. If Strasburg skipped Wrigley's raw and windy conditions, the rest of the rotation could take advantage of the April 6 scheduled off day, cover the rest of the games in Chicago and in New York against the Mets, then have Strasburg available for the first home series, perhaps as the starting pitcher at the April 12 home opener against the Reds.
One other option could be letting Strasburg pitch on regular rest throughout most of the first half, then shut him down for the final few days before the All-Star break and the first series or so after. The Nationals have a six-game homestand against the Giants and Rockies before the break and open the second half with a four-game visit to Miami. July 2 is a scheduled off day, and taking off those three series around the break could be the equivalent of a stint on the 15-day disabled list - or two or three starts. Teams have used this tactic to protect rookie pitchers in the past - the Tigers did something similar with then-20-year-old Rick Porcello in his rookie season in 2009, when he made 31 starts and took off from July 6-20, then made 14 more starts on pretty much his regular schedule. And while we're talking about midseason, don't expect to see Strasburg in the Mid-Summer Classic, even if the Nationals have to manufacture a tired arm to get around the tighter participation rules contained in the new collective bargaining agreement.
Another method would be to employ a six-man rotation (as reader CurlyDubs pointed out on Twitter after this entry was posted). This is an interesting proposition, but not out of the realm of possibility, especially since the Nationals have been dutifully collecting starting pitchers this offseason and now have at least seven or eight arms capable of taking the ball every fifth, er, sixth day. But this solution is problematic - Gonzalez, Zimmermann and Wang really need to be pitching every fifth day and it might be a bit of a nightmare to remake the between-outings regiment to accommodate a six-man rotation. Still, if the Nats' pitching staff were constructed with enough flexibility, six starters used sparingly through the season might be enough to extend Strasburg closer to the end of the regular season.
Johnson, pitching coach Steve McCatty and general manager Mike Rizzo have probably already outlined some plan of attack to get the most out of Strasburg without overtaxing his surgically repaired right elbow. They'll act with his best interests in mind, looking at the big picture rather than immersing themselves in immediate gratification. It will be difficult to rein in Strasburg's warrior mentality, nor do the Nats want to entirely. But they will be balancing his short-term health with their long-term goals, and that's probably a wise course of action.
Follow Pete Kerzel on Twitter: @kerzelpete
]]>Orioles fans suffer through it during every Yankees and Red Sox series, while the Nationals are forced to endure thousands of Philliy Phanatics each year.
Well no more, cry the Nationals.
Last week, the Nationals launched the Take Back the Park initiative. This program is an effort to bring more Nationals fans to the park during the team's first three-game series against the Philadelphia Phillies from May 4-6, while at the same time limiting those supporters of the recent National League East juggernauts.
I know what you're thinking. Does this initiative bar people donning Phillies apparel from entering into the stadium?
That's not a bad idea, but rather Take Back the Park has allowed fans from Washington, D.C., Maryland and Virginia, as well as season ticket holders, an exclusive chance to purchase tickets to the three-game series before they go on sale to the general public.
To take advantage of this offer, Washington-area fans can visit nationals.com/ourpark to register for the presale. Upon verification, they will receive a one-time-use password to complete the order. The Nationals will also verify matching registration and billing information so that tickets are only mailed to local addresses in D.C., Maryland or Virginia in March.
Fans may purchase a minimum of two tickets and up to eight tickets per game in one transaction.
Drastic? Maybe. But it's time to stop Phillies fans from flooding Nationals Park. It's time to let the Nationals fans be heard. It's time to Take Back the Park.
]]>The Nationals are searching for performers to sing the national anthem during the 2012 season. Those selected will get the chance to sing our nation's hallmark song in front of thousands of Nationals fans and then enjoy some good ol' fashioned baseball.
Applicants are required to submit a resume (audio or video performance) along with a recent photo to anthem@nationals.com. The first 90 anthem hopefuls to submit their application will then be invited to audition live at Nationals Park on Saturday, March 10 at 10 a.m. Winners will be chosen from the group and then performance dates will be determined. As for the guidelines to the performance, remember the following:
* The anthem should be no longer than 90 seconds
* The anthem must be performed in a traditional style with all auditions sung a cappella
* Groups or instrument auditions are allowed, as well
Or, if singing is not your thing, and if you're a girl 18 years or older living in the D.C. area, you might think about auditioning to become a 2012 Nationals ballgirl.
You may have noticed the duo of young ladies at each Nationals game whose job it is to scoop up any foul balls that roll down the respective baselines. On Tuesday, Feb. 21, the latest batch of ballgirls will be decided. Those interested should submit a resume, cover letter and recent headshot to entertainment@nationals.com. The deadline to apply is Feb. 21, where upon finalists will be chosen and invited to try out at Nationals Park on Saturday, Feb. 25.
Similar to the national anthem performers, there are a few stipulations for applicants:
* You must be at least 18 and a resident of Washington, D.C.
* Must be able to avoid fair balls and field foul balls and know the difference between the two.
* Must be athletic; baseball or softball knowledge preferred but not required
* Must be punctual and reliable, with a flexible schedule and the willingness to work early mornings, late nights, weekends and holidays
* Must have strong interpersonal skills with a positive, energetic personality; strong communication skills are also preferred
Good luck to all those who apply!
]]>NatsTown has generally welcomed the return of Rick Ankiel, who has agreed to a minor league deal with an invitation to spring training. Unless he falls flat on his face or is hurt, it's a good bet Ankiel will come north as part of the Nationals' 25-man roster.
But exactly where does Ankiel fit in?
That depends on a number of variables, not the least of which is where Jayson Werth plays and whether Bryce Harper proves in spring training he is ready for the majors. This much is known: Ankiel is a superior defensive outfielder with a strong arm and enough speed remaining in his 32-year-old legs to patrol the gaps.
For the purposes of argument, we'll pencil Michael Morse into left field, leaving the following scenarios for Ankiel in 2012:
Werth in center, Harper in right: For this to happen, Harper has to convince general manager Mike Rizzo that he can handle major league pitching, and the only way to do that is to hit his way onto the 25-man roster out of spring training. Harper's got all the confidence and bravado in the world, and manager Davey Johnson thinks his can handle the transition after only 37 games at Double-A. If Harper can sway Rizzo with his performance in the Grapefruit League, Ankiel becomes a very valuable asset off the bench - he can be used as a defensive replacement late in games and has a veteran's savvy demeanor, making him a good choice as a pinch hitter. Don't discount Ankiel's speed, a nice asset to have in reserve.
Ankiel in center/Werth in right: Ankiel bats from the left side, while most pitchers throw right-handed. But he's never played a full major league season as a starter, and the 122 games he logged for the Nationals in 2011 matched his career high. Bottom line, it's a good bet no matter what Ankiel does in spring training, he probably won't win the starting center field job to claim as his own. It doesn't matter how strong his defense is, Ankiel can't hit left-handed pitching - he hits .231 against southpaws and .251 versus right-handers. If he's going to match last year's playing time, Ankiel will probably have to share center field.
Ankiel as part of a platoon in center/Werth in right: This construction may make the most sense because it gives Harper more time to develop, it puts Werth in right field where he's more comfortable and it means Johnson has some flexibility in structuring his lineup depending on the opposing pitcher. The question then becomes: Who shares center with Ankiel? The Nationals have several candidates. Veteran Mike Cameron could be the right-handed-hitting complement to Ankiel, but he's 39 and has to prove he can handle the rigors of semi-regular play (though a platoon would certainly preserve him). Roger Bernadina can play center, but the Nationals prefer him as a corner outfielder, and then there's the fact that he's a left-handed hitter, like Ankiel (their numbers are similar, too - Bernadina is a career .224 hitter against lefties and bats .245 against righties). Mark DeRosa is the right-handed bat off the bench at this point, but he's not a center fielder, and the likes of non-roster invitees Jason Michaels (36 in May), Corey Brown (inexperience, left-handed hitter), Xavier Paul (left-handed hitter) and Brett Carroll (primarily a corner man) all have a strike against them.
So where does Ankiel fit in? Probably in a shared arrangement that puts Werth back in his customary position and hints that Harper needs more seasoning. The trick will be determining the other half of the platoon, and if Cameron doesn't seize the role, expect Rizzo to be on the lookout for a right-handed-hitting center fielder as teams pare their rosters deeper into spring training.
Update: The Nationals have made official the deal with Ankiel, and also announced they have signed veteran infielder/outfielder Mark Teahen to a minor league deal with a spring training invitation. Teahen is a seven-year major league veteran who bats from the left side and plays third base, right field and first base. He's a career .264 hitter with 67 homers and 332 RBIs with the Royals, White Sox and Blue Jays. Last year, he batted .200 with four homers and 14 RBIs in 78 games for Chicago and Toronto, when an oblique option limited his playing time. The Jays released him in mid-January. The 30-year-old Teahen could provide another veteran bat off the bench for the Nats
]]>According to multiple reports, the Nationals have agreed to terms on a minor league contract with Rick Ankiel, which includes an invite to spring training, where Ankiel will compete for at least a share of the team's center field job.
The 32-year-old Ankiel batted .239 with nine homers and 37 RBIs in 122 games for the Nationals last year. But he hadn't landed a job until the Nationals locked him up today.
News that Ankiel could return in 2012 might indicate that the Nationals aren't sold on the notion of Bryce Harper starting the season on the 25-man roster. Presumably, Ankiel could function as part of a center field platoon, with Jayson Werth shifting back to his normal spot in right field. Or, if Harper hits his way onto the club in spring training, Ankiel's superior defense, strong arm and decent speed could set him up nicely to win a spot as a backup outfielder.
]]>True, some tweaks to the rotation were needed, but with a lineup that mustered a .242 batting average, 14th in the National League, as well as just 1,319 hits, 15th in the NL, hitting was thought to be the priority this winter.
Yet with only a few weeks left before spring training, the Nationals' big moves this offseason have come almost exclusively on the mound. Bringing in starters Gio Gonzalez and Edwin Jackson, along with reliever Brad Lidge, has given the Nationals an impressive boost to an already pitching-rich squad. The only questions that remain are, how will the rotation shape up come spring time and will the surplus in arms be enough to push the Nationals to their first-ever playoff berth?
Regarding the first question, it all depends on how much you believe general manager Mike Rizzo's view on starter John Lannan. The left-hander, who lost his arbitration hearing Thursday, has the stuff to be a starter in the back-end of any team's rotation - including Washington's - yet has been mentioned as the latest pitcher on the trade market.
During his conference call Thursday, Rizzo insisted signing Jackson was a move to relieve the pressures of his younger arms. Stephen Strasburg and Jordan Zimmermann will be closely watched with their innings, while Chien-Ming Wang hasn't started more than 15 games since 2007 with the Yankees.
Ideally, having seven quality arms on the staff - Gonzalez, Strasburg, Zimmermann, Wang, Jackson, Lannan and Ross Detwiler - won't leave the Nationals searching for an arm should one or two of these guys suffer a setback.
As it stands, the opening day rotation should begin with Gonzalez at the top spot, with Strasburg, Zimmermann, Wang and Jackson rounding out the starting five. Lannan and Detwiler will certainly aim to change that, however, and with these young arms being watched carefully, you can bet this won't be the rotation for the duration of 2012.
Looking at that rotation should make any Nationals fan giddy at the possibilities, but a lot will fall on the offense's job to make sure some run support is provided. The Nationals didn't really address holes throughout the lineup, leaving questions as to whether the offense will improve.
Jayson Werth should get better, simply for the fact that last season was so disappointing. Ryan Zimmerman - barring injury - will improve upon 2011, while Michael Morse and the possibility of bringing up slugger Bryce Harper give the Nationals a chance to really put some power in the bats to complement those arms. With Lannan on the trading block, too, another bat could be on the way, though Rizzo said Thursday he "didn't acquire Edwin Jackson to trade another starting pitcher."
We'll see how this all develops in spring training, but it's shaping up to be a memorable season for the Nationals. Fans should be excited at the possibilities and the competition for the starting rotation will be cutthroat and definitely the top story line heading into opening day.
]]>Does somebody want to answer the door? I'm pretty sure opportunity is knocking.
A week after introducing pitcher Gio Gonzalez, whom the Nationals acquired via trade from the Athletics, Rizzo announced Thursday the acquisition of coveted free agent pitcher Edwin Jackson. Jackson, who has a World Series ring and a no-hitter to his resume, will join a pitching rotation that seems to be getting wealthier by the day.
As a complement to Gonzalez, veteran Chien-Ming Wang, John Lannan and the dynamic duo of Stephen Strasburg and Jordan Zimmermann, Jackson's arrival in Washington helps solidify the Nationals' rotation as one of the top contenders in baseball.
"We saw an opportunity to acquire a young, hard-throwing, power-pitching, innings-eating type of pitcher and we thought it was a good value and on good terms," Rizzo said. "You can never have enough quality starting pitching and we thought it was a good enough value to make him a National."
Jackson and the Nationals agreed to a one-year deal, estimated to be worth around $10 million, pending a physical. In nine seasons, the 28-year-old has posted a 60-60 record with a 4.46 ERA.
And yet while snatching the right-hander, who just 24 hours ago was one of the top remaining free agents on the market, brings another powerful arm to Rizzo's fleet, it was quickly clear that when it comes to a spot in the starting rotation, there aren't exactly enough life jackets to go around.
"We're certainly going to have great competition in spring training," Rizzo said. "We're going to be bringing the best 25 north with us and it gives us depth and options, not only in the rotation but in the bullpen."
Depth and options are certainly nice to have, but the acquisition of Jackson does raise questions as to the futures of some of the team's other pitchers, namely Lannan. Earlier today, the Nationals won their arbitration meeting with Lannan, meaning the left-hander will earn $5 million in 2012. Shortly after, it was rumored the team was "aggressively shopping" the 27-year-old, presumably to make room for Jackson.
Despite those scenarios, Rizzo stressed more than once his goal to keep Lannan in the starting rotation. He made sure, however, not to guarantee that Lannan wouldn't be traded in the coming weeks, rather pushing Jackson's role as an innings eater for a collection of arms still getting adjusted to a full season on the mound.
While Rizzo may have downplayed the rumors of putting Lannan on the trading block, his point about the young staff is not far off. Strasburg will remain on an innings limit this season, while Zimmermann is coming off a 160-inning season and will likely be asked to do more. Wang, despite his reemergence a year ago, spent numerous months at less than perfect health and as the coaches, players and fans know with Strasburg's injury in 2009, all it takes is one bad pitch or outing to be lost for the season.
"We did not acquire Edwin Jackson to trade another starting pitcher," Rizzo said. "If in spring training or before spring training a deal comes up that we can't pass up and positively impacts our ball club we'll certainly be open-minded about it."
Having Jackson on the team is a great pickup, but when it all boils down, there are only so many spots in the starting rotation, with too many starting-capable arms on the roster. Add to that the fact the Nationals could use a bat or two, and Lannan's future with the team, even with Rizzo's intentions to keep him around, could change in the near future. For now, however, the Nationals have scooped up another key free agent and have once again firmed their commitment to "winning now."
]]>Only hours after winning an arbitration case with starting pitcher John Lannan, and while in the midst of shopping around said pitcher, the Nationals announced they have come to terms with key free agent starter Edwin Jackson, pending a physical. According to CBSSports.com's Jon Heyman it is reportedly worth $8-$12 million.
This will be Jackson's seventh team in his career. The 28-year-old spent three seasons each with the Dodgers and Rays, respectively, before spending all of the 2009 season with the Detroit Tigers. It was there Jackson had his best season, going 13-9 with a 3.62 ERA and earning his lone all-star appearance. Jackson then split time between the Diamondbacks and White Sox, before being traded to the eventual World Series champion Cardinals midway through last season.
In nine seasons, Jackson's record stands at an even 60-60. He boasts a 4.46 ERA, but amassed a 12-9 mark last season with the White Sox and Cardinals.
With Gio Gonzalez, Stephen Strasburg, Jordan Zimmermann, Chien-Ming Wang and Jackson likely as the starting five, the Nationals now boast one of the youngest and formidable rotations in the National League. Gonzalez (26), Strasburg (22), Jackson (28) and Zimmermann (25) are all under the age of 30, while Wang is just on the other side at 31 years old. Jackson's acquisition also solidifies the five-man rotation for the Nationals, though Ross Detwiler could still compete for one of those spots.
What this means for Lannan, however, is his days as a National are likely numbered. Just after beating out Lannan in their arbitration meeting, the Nationals were thought to be "aggressively shopping" the left-hander in order to slice off the $5 million he'll make in 2012 as a result of the arbitration hearing.
It was believed, however, that in order for Jackson to be acquired, the Nationals would have to part ways with the 27-year-old. Now that Jackson has signed to pitch in our nation's capital, it should be only a matter of time before Lannan is on his way out.
]]>After today, you can chalk up another win for the Nationals.
One day after holding an arbitration meeting with pitcher John Lannan, it's being reported the Nationals won out, meaning the left-hander will earn the Nationals' offer of $5 million in 2012.
The meeting was held Wednesday to determine whether the left-hander would earn $5.7 million he and his CAA representatives requested in 2012, or the $5 million offered by the Nationals.
Lannan was arbitration eligible for the second time this offseason and will remain under club control through 2013. He is coming off of a season in which he posted a 3.70 ERA in 184 2/3 innings in 2011, marking the third time in four seasons the 27-year-old started at least 30 games while keeping his ERA under 4.00.
According to MLBtraderumors.com, all of the Nationals' arbitration eligible players have been signed for 2012.
Update: Just after beating Lannan in arbitration, the Nationals are reportedly aggressively shopping the left-hander in an effort to clear his $5 million salary from the payroll. According to Ken Rosenthal, the Nats are targeting starter Edwin Jackson, but cautions that acquiring Jackson is contingent on shipping Lannan out of Washington. Reports also indicate that should the Nationals find a suitor for Lannan, they're hoping to pick up a position player in exchange.
It's not a bad move for the Nationals, particularly considering the status of their rotation. Lannan's new salary makes him the highest paid pitcher on the team, yet he'll likely battle for the final spot and could wind up in the bullpen.
Currently, Gio Gonzalez, Stephen Strasburg, Jordan Zimmermann and Chien-Ming Wang figure to fill the initial four spots, with Lannan and Ross Detwiler battling it out for the No. 5 position. Should the Nationals pick up either Jackson or Roy Oswalt, their starting five would be virtually solidified, so seeing what's out there for Lannan makes sense at the moment.
]]>The 34-year-old Durbin was 2-2 with a 5.53 ERA in 56 games for the Indians last season. In 12 major league seasons with the Royals, Indians, Diamondbacks, Tigers and Phillies, he's 38-46 with a 5.10 ERA in 364 appearances, including 75 starts. His best season came in 2008, when he went 5-4 with a 2.87 ERA and a save for the World Series champion Phillies.
In other news, Baseball America's 2012 Prospect Handbook is out and ranks the Nationals' minor league system as No. 1 in baseball - with a caveat. The ranking was determined before the Nationals traded four of their top prospects - catcher Derek Norris, left-hander Tommy Milone, and right-handers Brad Peacock and A.J. Cole - to the A's for lefty Gio Gonzalez. The Nationals ranked 13th last year.
"The Nationals have come a long way in our organization rankings in a short time after ranking dead last just five years ago," said Baseball America executive editor Jim Callis in a team-issued press release. "They've been as aggressive as any team in the draft, which is the best way to build a team and a farm system. They've gotten the No. 1 player in our draft rankings for three years in a row with Stephen Strasburg, Bryce Harper and Anthony Rendon, and they've added a lot of quality depth around them."
Nationals general manager Mike Rizzo said the bounty reflects the team's desire to build a perennial contender.
"Between our draft picks, our trades, and our free agent acquisitions over the last three to five years, I don't think there is a question in anyone's minds about our commitment to building a contender in the Nation's Capital," Rizzo said. "We had a strategy, we stuck to it, and hopefully, we will begin to see dividends in 2012 and well beyond."
Update: Baseball America will provide updated rankings in mid-March.
Update: Durbin gets a spring training invite in the deal, which the Nationals have made official via email.
]]>Riggleman's shocking departure is the subject of this week's edition of "What If?" Wednesday, where we rejigger baseball's space/time continuum to see how things might have been different for the Nationals absent some event of historical significance. Given how far the Nationals seem to have come in such a short time, it's difficult to believe that the Riggleman era's end was a mere eight months ago. But it's possible the optimism that abounds in NatsTown heading into the 2012 season might not be the same right now had Riggleman remained at the team's helm.
When word began to filter out after the Nationals' 1-0 victory over the Seattle Mariners in a businessman's special on a Thursday afternoon, there was substantial confusion regarding what was happening. Reporters were awaiting Riggleman's postgame briefing in the Nationals' interview room, and the first reports said that "Riggleman has resigned" - given the Nationals' win binge, there was some initial confusion on the "Nats Xtra" postgame set about whether someone had dropped a dash, turning "re-signed" into "resigned." Soon enough, the situation became clearer.
General manager Mike Rizzo entered the interview room to announce that Riggleman had resigned, upset that the GM wouldn't entertain any discussions about picking up the 2012 option on his contract in the midst of the team's most successful run of the season. The pact Riggleman had signed in November 2009 was purportedly a three-year deal, though some of its details kept Riggleman at one of the lowest salaries in baseball with a minimal buyout after the first year and only a two-year guarantee followed by a team option. Riggleman wanted that option picked up to give him some job security and he took a stand that he wouldn't get on the team charter bound for Chicago and an interleague series with the White Sox unless Rizzo agreed to set up a date and time to talk about is future. At least that was Riggleman's side of the story. Rizzo said that Riggleman issued an ultimatum: pick up the 2012 option or find a new manager.
"This is not thinking of the team first," Rizzo said, clearly still processing what had transpired. "It's thinking of personal things and personal goals first. And that's probably what disappoints me most."
Riggleman wasn't present when Rizzo announced his departure. But he spoke later in the clubhouse as his former team prepared to go on to Chicago without him, curious players passing by his impromptu press conference as Riggleman explained his version of the events.
"I'm too old to be disrespected," the 58-year-old Riggleman said matter-of-factly, explaining that the terms of the deal he had agreed to were tilted clearly in the team's favor, leaving him little or no leverage.
You know what happened after that. Bench coach John McLaren replaced Riggleman on an interim basis for the weekend before Davey Johnson took the helm in Anaheim, leading the Nationals to 40-43 record and eventual 80-81 finish good for third place in the National League East. (Ironically, Johnson was the only manager the Nats employed last season with a sub-.500 record - McLaren was 2-1 and Riggleman was 38-37).
What might have transpired had Riggleman stayed?
At the very least, assuming the Nationals had continued the same growth they experienced under Johnson, Rizzo and team ownership would have been faced with an uncomfortable postseason decision on Riggleman's 2012 option. It's doubtful Riggleman had a long-term future as manager or that the club viewed him as the kind of manager who could do more than be a placeholder. For sure, Riggleman wouldn't be able to convince Rizzo that Harper was ready for prime time in 2012. Riggleman didn't stay unemployed for long - he took a scouting position with the Giants and agreed in December to manage the Reds' new Double-A affiliate in Pensacola, Fla.
Had Riggleman not resigned, Johnson might still be in his previous role as a special advisor to Rizzo. Though Johnson had professed that his managing days were over and that he was comfortable in a support role where little travel was required, he couldn't pass up the chance to be the steward of the Nationals' turnaround once players like Stephen Strasburg and Harper were the tandem faces of the franchise. Certainly, Johnson might have listened had suitors come calling, but most of baseball figured that he had already managed his last game.
McLaren, the loyal lieutenant thrust into the manager's seat when his good friend bailed, quickly became a lame duck. He was part of Riggleman's staff and, though viewed as a solid baseball man, didn't want to have to coexist with his pal's successor. McLaren graciously agreed to step aside when Johnson took over, realizing that a manager needs his own confidant as bench coach. He no longer has any role in the organization.
Rizzo, probably the one with the most to lose by the way Riggleman departed, may have ended up gaining the most. He handled an untenable situation diplomatically, quickly and decisively. Rizzo's actions only strengthened his position within the Nationals' organization, and his longstanding strong relationship with Johnson created a framework for communication and cooperation Rizzo didn't enjoy with Riggleman.
End of the line: With spring training on the horizon, this will be the last installment of "What If?" Wednesday. We hope you've enjoyed our journeys back into Nationals history, as we've examined some of the key points in the franchise's past. Thanks for your suggestions and for your comments.
]]>The Nats have finally gotten to the point where there's sufficient depth in their starting rotation, and enough arms in the minor leagues, that they had no need for a 36-year-old control specialist who got by on guile. Make no mistake, Hernandez wanted to return - "Of course, why wouldn't I?" he said with a big smile when I asked him in September - but there was only the slimmest of chances that would happen, and all hope evaporated after the Nats re-signed Chien-Ming Wang and traded for Gio Gonzalez.
Hernandez, who came to D.C. with the Expos in 2005 and started the first game in Nationals' history, leaves as the team's career leader in wins (44), starts (129), strikeouts (476) and innings pitched (828 2/3). But his value far surpassed those numbers.
He was a father figure in the clubhouse, someone willing to share his experience and knowledge. The fact that he was willing to work for his place on the roster - like when the Nationals re-signed him in February 2009 - wasn't lost on veterans or rookies. He had a knack for self-deprecating humor and was usually a thoughtful interview. He'd grab a bat if necessary, was an accomplished bunter and no one was better at blocking the catcher from retrieving a ball dropped down the first base line.
Hernandez would have been happy to come back as a long reliever - with Davey Johnson's desire to have both left- and right-handed long men, I half expected a press release announcing Hernandez's re-signing to pop up in my in-box any day now - but he'll have to watch from afar to see if the Nationals turn a corner.
The deal with the Astros includes a spring training invitation, so Hernandez will be in Kissimmee, Fla., only a short drive from Viera in spring training. You can be sure he'll pitch when the Nationals and Astros meet because Hernandez is at the top of his game when he's given the opportunity to best one of his seven former employers. I can't see Hernandez going to Triple-A if he doesn't make the Houston staff, but maybe he can show enough to earn a job somewhere if the Astros don't pan out.
There's no telling how much gas is left in Hernandez's tank. But when it's finally empty - or when he can't convince someone to give him the ball - look for him to return to the Nationals in some capacity. He'll be welcomed with open arms.
Again.
]]>Rotation? So many legitimate starting pitchers that either Ross Detwiler or John Lannan will likely end up in long relief. Bullpen? So many arms that someone like Ryan Mattheus or Henry Rodguez could be squeezed out. Starting lineup? Pretty solid, one through nine. Bench? Much improved. And general manager Mike Rizzo says he's not done "tweaking," so stay tuned.
About the biggest uncertainty revolves around Jayson Werth - will he play center field or right field, and if it's center, who's in right?
Rizzo and manager Davey Johnson insist Werth is capable of manning center. They think he's got sufficient speed to cover the gaps and there's no doubt that he's the kind of take-charge outfielder that can play traffic cop (in other words, none of that silliness where the center fielder allows himself to be called off a catchable ball, which has happened occasionally in the past). In his brief trial in center at the end of last season, Werth acquitted himself well, making good reads and taking good routes to the ball. He's no stranger to center, having played the position in each of his nine major league seasons, but his 31 games and 233 1/3 innings at the position with the Phillies in 2008 were his career highs at the spot.
If Werth plays center and Bryce Harper forces his way onto the 25-man roster as the primary right fielder, most of the Nationals' outfield questions are answered (assuming Harper doesn't struggle and require the Nationals to return him for more minor league seasoning). Johnson is confident that the 19-year-old Harper's skills are advanced enough to handle the adjustment from Double-A to the majors; Rizzo isn't so sure, and would like Harper to get at least half a season at Triple-A (especially since he's got only 37 Double-A games under his belt). Then there's the whole financial incentive for stashing Harper in the minors until at least late May or the beginning of June - the Nationals could save untold millions by delaying the start of his arbitration clock. Yet Rizzo said last week he's at least open to the notion of Harper starting the season with the big league club.
"We're going to bring the best 25 north," Rizzo said. "If that includes Harper, it's Harper. When I believe Harper is ready to play in the big leagues, he'll be in the big leagues. We're not going to hinder his progress but we're not going to accelerate it to a point where I think it endangers his development and curtails his overall performance."
Now, if Rizzo and Johnson agree that Harper needs some more minor league at-bats - or if Rizzo overrules his manager - then the Nationals have to get creative. Right now, a lefty/righty platoon of holdover Roger Bernadina and veteran Mike Cameron, in camp on a minor league deal with a spring training invitation, would probably be the top option. The same duo could handle center field if the Nationals wanted to keep Werth in right, but Bernadina's much better as a corner outfielder, where the foul lines can help compensate for some bad reads, and Cameron is 39 and his speed, once his calling card, has diminished. Mark DeRosa could also get some at-bats in right field, but that would take him out of the super utility role the Nats are hoping he'll fill.
Not sold on Bernadina, Cameron or DeRosa? This is where Rizzo comes back into the discussion. The free agent ranks are thinning, but maybe Rizzo re-signs Rick Ankiel or takes a shot that he can coax another season out of a veteran looking for a job. Perhaps he swings a trade for either an established veteran or a minor leaguer whose path to the majors is blocked. Or he goes to spring training with what he has, keeps an eye on the waiver wire as cuts are made or just sucks it up and waits for next offseason when guys like B.J. Upton, Michael Bourn and Shane Victorino could be available to fill the Nationals' hole in center field.
The Nationals will have competition in spring training, just not the open casting calls that were commonplace for several positions in years past. Instead, they will be able to focus on getting over .500 and becoming a player in the National League East race.
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