Nats move off Lee, toward LaRoche

by Phil Wood

Now that Derrek Lee has apparently opted for the American League, the Nationals are reportedly willing to give Adam LaRoche a two-year deal.

It's not like LaRoche has a lot of options at this point.

Reports over the past few weeks have indicated that LaRoche wants a three-year deal in the $21 million range. There's been a reluctance on the part of the Nationals - and Orioles, Padres and every other team that's contacted LaRoche's representatives - to hand out a three-year deal, despite LaRoche's age (he just turned 31 last month) and consistency (he averages 26 home runs and 93 RBI every 162 games).

LaRoche is known as a good defender, and has had no issues with injuries in his seven year career. He knows what it's like to win (with Atlanta) and to lose (with Pittsburgh). Like Lee, he comes from a baseball family: his dad pitched in the big leagues 1970-83, and his brother Andy has played four seasons in the National League, and is also currently a free agent.

The backup plan continues to be Casey Kotchman, who would likely platoon with Michael Morse, but if LaRoche has an offer on the table, it seems likely that a deal may be close.

Have a safe New Year's Eve.