While the future looks bright for the Washington Nationals, it is not here yet.
The Nationals are still in the NL East basement and have the fourth worst record in the majors entering Monday. Intriguing young players litter the roster and there is more talent on the verge of reaching the majors. But it is still going to take some time before the Nationals are ready to compete once again.
That next step could happen soon depending on the trade deadline. While there are building blocks for the future already in place, the Nationals also have pieces that could be of interest at the deadline. Even if these players do not bring back top prospects, they could still land solid role players to fill out their core. And one never knows what those unheralded prospects will become – just look at the Yordan Alvarez for Josh Fields trade.
The Washington Nationals have some interesting players that could be available. Let’s look at three possible trade candidates.
Three possible trade candidates for Washington Nationals
Jeimer Candelario
The Nationals took a chance on Jeimer Candelario after a disappointing 2022 season and it has paid off. He has been their best hitter, posting a .260/.332/.456 batting line with seven homers and 17 doubles in his 241 plate appearances. That production could help in the middle of a contending lineup. While he has primarily been a third baseman, Candelario also has some experience at first, adding some versatility to his profile.
Jeimer Candelario could be an under the radar addition for a contending team. The Twins, Yankees, and Mets could be interested in his services.
Carl Edwards Jr.
Carl Edwards Jr. was another reclamation project that has paid off for the Nationals. Plucked off the scrap heap following a three year run between 2019 and 2021, he became one of their better pieces in the bullpen. That has continued this season as Edwards has posted a 3.28 ERA, albeit with a high 1.500 WHiP. While he has generated plenty of ground balls and has 20 strikeouts in 24 innings, he has issued 14 walks. Nonetheless, his ground ball ways and respectable performance could be enough for a team to give him a look.
Relief pitchers are always in demand at the trade deadline. Teams such as the Brewers, Diamondbacks, and Blue Jays may be interested in a lower cost option for their bullpen.
Corey Dickerson
Yet another reclamation project that has panned out, Corey Dickerson has not played much this season due to injury. However, he has performed well when he has been on the diamond, posting a .286/.340/.500 batting line with a pair of homers and three doubles in 47 plate appearances. He also has some defensive versatility, having spent time at all three outfield positions although left has been his primary home.
Corey Dickerson has had a surprisingly solid season. Teams with holes in left, such as the Yankees, Braves, and Rangers, may want to give him a look.
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