MLB Offseason 2012: Nationals Sign Mark Teahen To Minor-League Deal

The Washington Nationals made another roster transaction Monday, signing infielder/outfielder Mark Teahen to a minor-league deal Monday. According to Adam Kilgore of the Washington Post, Teahen will be invited to Spring Training where he's expected to battled for bench spot.

Last month, Teahen, 30, was released by the Toronto Blue Jays, who acquired the utility players from the Chicago White Sox in the summer. Between the two squads, the left-hander got 177 plate appearances and hit just .200. with four home runs and 14 RBI.

For his career, Teahen has compiled a .264 batting average with 67 home runs and 332 RBI. This will Teahen four team of his career, which began with the Kansas City Royals.

Also Monday, the Nationals made the signing of veteran outfield Rick Ankiel official. On Sunday, it was reported that Ankeil was going to sign a minor-league contract.

MLB Offseason 2012: Rick Ankiel Signs Minor-League Deal With Washington Nationals

The Nationals have re-signed Rick Ankiel to a minor-league deal, according to a report.

Edwin Jackson Signs, And Washington Nationals Let Ride Their Four Horsemen On NL East

The Washington Nationals added Edwin Jackson to their pitching stable on Wednesday, and in doing so, they've sent a strong message to the rest of the NL East.

Edwin Jackson To Sign With Washington Nationals, According To Report

Initial reports came in on Thursday afternoon that the Washington Nationals were attempting to free up payroll by moving left-handed pitcher John Lannan and targeting free agent RHP Edwin Jackson to solidify their rotation. Now it appears as though the Nats may have already landed their new pitcher.

According to John Heyman of CBS Sports, Jackson and the Nationals are in agreement on a deal. Amanda Comak of the Washington Times confirmed that the agreement between Jackson and the Nationals is for a one-year contract and that Jackson is already in town for a physical before the deal can be signed.

The Nats now appear to have a stacked rotation for 2012 that includes Stephen Strasburg, Gio Gonzalez, Jordan Zimmermann, Jackson and Lannan. Even if the Nationals are indeed still aggressively shopping Lannan in hopes of acquiring a position player, the rotation is still set to be quite formidable.

For more on the Nationals, please visit Federal Baseball, SB Nation's Nationals blog.

MLB Trade Rumors: Washington Nationals Shopping John Lannan, Targeting Edwin Jackson, According To Report

The Washington Nationals are looking to make some more changes to their pitching rotation prior to spring training, it seems.

According to Ken Rosenthal and Jon Paul Morosi at FOX Sports, the Nationals won their arbitration case with John Lannan are are now aggressively shopping the southpaw in an attempt to shed payroll and pick up a top-tier free agent. Lannan earned $2.7 million in 2011 and asked for $5.7 million for the upcoming season. The arbitration case came out in favor of the Nats, but his $5 million will make him the highest-paid pitcher on the staff in 2012.

Although the article on FOX Sports mentioned that the Cardinals would be attempting to sign either Roy Oswalt or Edwin Jackson, Rosenthal followed up with a tweet saying that the Nats would definitely be targeting Jackson, rather than Oswalt, after moving payroll with a Lannan trade. Jackson is a right-handed starter who last played on the St. Louis Cardinals.

William Ladson of MLB.com indicated that the Nats are hoping to get a position player in exchange for Lannan, possibly a center fielder. If they can get a reasonable starting center fielder for the pitcher, that might shore up the outfield in the near future along with Jayson Werth and the eventual arrival of Bryce Harper.

For more on the Nationals, please visit Federal Baseball, SB Nation's Nationals blog.

Brad Lidge Close To Signing With Washington Nationals, According To Report

The Washington Nationals are close to signing former Philadelphia Phillies closer Brad Lidge, according to various reports.

Prince Fielder Rumors: Mike Rizzo Said Nationals 'Had Parameters' That Tigers Exceeded

The Detroit Tigers beat out the Washington Nationals for Prince Fielder on Tuesday, signing him to a nine-year, $214 million deal. The Nationals were long seen as the favorites to sign Fielder, but in an interview with reporters, general manager Mike Rizzo confirmed that the price exceeded the Nationals' "parameters."

Via Amanda Comak of the Washington Times:

Rizzo said the #nats had parameters they were comfortable with and when the negotiations went above them they were comfortable walking away.

— Amanda Comak (@acomak) January 25, 2012

Those parameters were only exceeded at the very end, Rizzo said. He added that he met with Fielder once, but didn't elaborate on whether he actually made a formal contract offer.

Without Fielder, Adam LaRoche will be the team's opening-day first baseman, in all likelihood.

For more Prince Fielder rumors, visit this StoryStream. For more on the Tigers, visit Bless You Boys and SB Nation Detroit. For more on the Nationals, visit Federal Baseball.

Chain Reactions: Flip Saunders Wins Lottery, Alex Ovechkin In Penalty Box And No Prince Fielder In D.C.

The Wizards trying to Flip the season around, the Capitals' star is taking his stick and going home instead of to the All-Star game and the Nationals swing and miss on a Prince.

Prince Fielder Signs With Detroit Tigers, And Now Washington Nationals Must Find Themelves

The dreams and excitement of pulling in a big free agent that would have defined the Nationals for years are over. Now, they must deal with reality.

Prince Fielder's Contract With Detroit Tigers For 9 Years With No Opt-Out Clause, According To Report

Prince Fielder's new contract with the Detroit Tigers is for nine years and $214 million, and apparently contains no opt-out clause on either his end or the team's, according to CBS Sports' Jon Heyman.

there is no opt out in #prince deal. heard $214M is spread pretty evenly over term. about $23.8M a yr. #tigers

— Jon Heyman (@JonHeymanCBS) January 24, 2012

That's a heavy price for any team to pay, and one that was apparently too heavy for the Washington Nationals, who were seen by many as the favorites to land him. Manager Davey Johnson had previously said that the price was too rich for the team. Now, in an interview with Adam Kilgore of the Washington Post, Johnson expressed doubt that the team even made an offer.

Davey on Prince: "There were a lot of teams – and I think we’re 1 of them – that never made an offer. I could be wrong. I'm glad it's over."

— Adam Kilgore (@AdamKilgoreWP) January 24, 2012

The Nationals will likely roll with Adam LaRoche at first base and Michael Morse in left field.

For more Prince Fielder rumors, visit this StoryStream. For more on the Tigers, visit Bless You Boys and SB Nation Detroit. For more on the Nationals, visit Federal Baseball.

Prince Fielder Signs With Detroit Tigers, Davey Johnson Says Washington Nationals' Pockets 'Are Not That Deep'

The Detroit Tigers signed Prince Fielder to a lucrative contract worth $214 million over nine years Tuesday, ending the Washington Nationals' pursuit of the power-hitting left-hander. When asked for comment on the signing, Nationals manager Davey Johnson said, "Our pockets are deep, but they are not that deep," reports Andy Martino of the New York Daily News.

Johnson's comments appear to echo what Adam Kilgore of the Washington Post reported shortly after word of Fielder's signing began to spread: that the Nationals were unwilling to offer Fielder, 27, a contract longer than seven years.

A report early Tuesday indicated the Texas Rangers had left the bidding for Fielder, and that Washington was once again the favorite to sign the former Milwaukee Brewer. Detroit reached deeply into its pockets, however, and made Fielder an offer neither he nor Scott Boras, his agent, couldn't refuse.

For more on the Nationals, please visit Federal Baseball, SB Nation's Nationals blog.

Prince Fielder Signs 9-Year, $214 Million Contract With Detroit Tigers, According To Report

Free-agent first baseman Prince Fielder has signed with the Detroit Tigers for nine years and $214 million, reports John Heyman of CBSSports.com, meaning the Washington Nationals, the longtime favorites to acquire Fielder's services, have lost out. Adam Kilgore of the Washington Post reports the Nationals were unwilling to offer the three-time All-Star a contract longer than seven years.

Fielder, 27, has spent his entire seven-year career to date with the Milwaukee Brewers, hitting .282 with 230 home runs and 656 runs batted in. The left-handed slugger has averaged 37 homers per 162 games.

Nats general manager Mike Rizzo has reiterated his confidence in incumbent first baseman Adam LaRoche numerous times throughout the free-agent period. LaRoche played in just 43 games during the 2011 season, his first with Washington, due to injury, hitting .172 with three homers and 15 runs batted in. In LaRoche's absence, lightly regarded veteran Mike Morse enjoyed a breakout season, leading the team in doubles (28), homers (31), runs batted in (95), and batting average (.301).

For more on the Nationals, please visit Federal Baseball, SB Nation's Nationals blog.

Prince Fielder Rumors: Conversations Between Fielder, Washington Nationals Reportedly 'Accelerating;' Texas Rangers 'Likely Out' Of Consideration

The Texas Rangers consider themselves unlikely to sign free-agent first baseman Prince Fielder, reports Bob Nightengale of USA Today, which "would seem to make the Washington Nationals front-runners for Fielder's services." Citing a source, Nightengale says talks between Fielder and the Nationals are "accelerating and could conclude today."

The 27-year-old Fielder, according to Rangers CEO Nolan Ryan, is hoping to sign a contract spanning eight to 10 years.

Nightengale believes Washington would slot the left-hand-hitting Fielder between right-handers Michael Morse and Ryan Zimmerman in the batting order, should it land Fielder.

Fielder, a three-time All-Star, hit .299 with 38 homers and 120 runs batted in for the Milwaukee Brewers during the 2011 season. In addition, the left-handed slugger led the National League by drawing 32 intentional walks in his 692 plate appearances. He has missed only 13 games in his last six seasons.

For more on the Nationals, please visit Federal Baseball, SB Nation's Nationals blog.

Prince Fielder Rumors: Washington Nationals Remain Favorite, But Misgivings Remain, According To Report

For those of you still waiting for the last remaining big name free agent to sign a contract, the time might be drawing near. According to Ken Rosenthal of Fox sports, Fielder should be making his free agent decision soon and the Nationals may be a front-runner.

The Prince Fielder sweepstakes finally are nearing conclusion, according to major league sources. The Nationals remain a leading contender for the free-agent first baseman, if not the outright favorite.

Rosenthal explains however that the plan to sign Prince Fielder to a long term expensive contract is not unanimous among the Nationals organization. Some would prefer to go a more cost effective route, saving the big spending for when they need to extend young players like Stephen Strasburg and Bryce Harper down the line. But Fielder would put butts in the seats at Nationals Park, making those extensions theoretically more viable. Either way it is a tough decision for the team to make.

According to Bill Ladson of MLB.com, the sticking point between the Nationals and the Fielder camp is the length of the contract.

According to a baseball source, the stumbling block continues to be the length of the contract. Fielder is looking for a contract similar to the 10-year deal first baseman Albert Pujols received from the Angels, but the Nats don't want to go more than five or six years. They are willing to give Fielder a no-trade clause, but it's not known if they would let Fielder opt out of a contract after three years.

It doesn't seem like any team is willing to give Fielder that 10-year deal, otherwise he would probably be signed already. But if I had to guess I would say that whichever team signs him, Nationals or otherwise, will meet somewhere in the middle.

For more on the Nationals, head on over to Federal Baseball, SB Nation's Nationals blog.

Prince Fielder Rumors: Baltimore Orioles Join Chase For Free-Agent Slugger, According To Report

More: Prince Fielder rumors

The Washington Nationals appear to have some competition for free-agent slugger Prince Fielder from their neighbors immediately to the north. The Baltimore Orioles have expressed interest in signing Fielder, and while it is not clear whether they will meet his asking price, they are in the chase, according to SIRIUS XM's Jim Duquette.

#Orioles are definitely in on PF - it remains to be seen if they'll go to the "magic" number. But there's plenty of motivation to sign him

— Jim Duquette (@Jim_Duquette) January 23, 2012

FOX Sports' Ken Rosenthal confirmed that the Orioles are in the picture. More generally, CBS Sports' Jon Heyman reported that Fielder is deciding between four teams.

The Orioles, like the Nationals, have been involved with big names before, only to find their interest isn't serious. If the interest is serious, though, it will certainly allow Scott Boras to drive up the price for his client.

For more Prince Fielder rumors, visit this StoryStream. For more on the Orioles, visit Camden Chat. For more on the Nationals, visit Federal Baseball.

Prince Fielder Rumors: Nationals Working Towards Deal With Slugger, According To Report

The twitter-sphere blew up last night when a rumor emerged that the Nationals had agreed to a contract with Prince Fielder. It appears that those rumors are untrue and there is no agreement in place, but that does not mean the Nationals aren't making the effort to sign him. Former GM Jim Bowden tweeted this late Sunday evening.

The Nationals continue to work on a deal for Prince Fielder...BUT THERE IS NO DEAL repeat NO DEAL as of tonight according to sources

— JIM BOWDEN (@JimBowdenESPNxm) January 23, 2012

Now the rumor mill will get going again with this latest bit of news, even though it isn't really that much more new information. There is a lot of smoke surrounding Prince Fielder and the nationals right now, so it wouldn't surprise me if there was in fact some fire there. But it seems like the Prince Fielder market, wherever he ends up signing, is really heating up.

For more on the Nationals, head on over to Federal Baseball, SB Nation's Nationals blog.

Prince Fielder Rumors: Texas Rangers Plan 'Surprise Attack' To Sign Slugger, According To Report

The Texas Rangers are only pretending they don't have the money to sign free-agent first baseman Prince Fielder, reports Bob Nightengale of USA Today, because they want to be able to submit the best possible bid for the three-time All-Star.

Texas has spent $111.7 million to land Japanese pitcher Yu Darvish--$60 million for a contract, $51.7 million for the posting fee owed to his Japanese club--and would appear to be out of the running for any big-name free agent.

Nightengale concedes the Rangers would need "a bit of ingenuity" and perhaps even "some opt-out clauses" to sign Fielder, but they will nonetheless try to. If they're able to make a competitive offer, he may land in the Lone Star State instead of with the Washington Nationals. Reports of the Nats' interest have run hot and cold.

For more on the Nationals, head on over to Federal Baseball, SB Nation's Nationals blog.

Prince Fielder Rumors: Texas Rangers 'Unlikely" To Fit Prince Fielder Into Budget

The Texas Rangers just signed Japanese pitcher Yu Darvish to a six-year $60 million contract that might take them out of the bidding for Prince Fielder. MLB Pro Blog Network had this off camera quote from Jon Daniels, the Rangers general manager, that seems to imply the Rangers won't be able to afford him.

Jon Daniels, off camera, on the Rangers chances of pursuing Prince Fielder:
“I’m intimately aware of our budget and it’s very unlikely.”

It was thought by many in the industry that the, for lack of a better word, field for Fielder would solidify after the Rangers did or did not get Yu Darvish to agree to a contract. Now that the Rangers are probably out of the running, it leaves a small handful of teams for Fielder to choose from. With this obstacle out of the way, a deal for Fielder could happen pretty quickly.

For more on the Washington Nationals, please visit Federal Baseball, SB Nation's Washington Nationals blog and stay tuned to SB Nation DC.

Ryan Zimmerman, Washington Nationals Talking Extension, According To Report

As the Washington Nationals continue to add talent to their roster and sign players like Gio Gonzalez to big money deals, they also seem to be taking care of their own. Star third baseman Ryan Zimmerman and the Washington Nationals have begun talking about a new contract extension, according to William Ladson of MLB.com

I learned that Ryan Zimmerman and the #Nats are talking extension. I'll have more on MLB.com. #MLB

— William Ladson (@washingnats) January 19, 2012

Zimmerman has one of the top three contracts with the Nationals right now, currently on a five-year. $45 million deal. With the Nationals rumored to be the front runners for free agent first baseman Prince Fielder, signing Gonzalez, and now talking extension with Zimmerman they are clearly not shy about putting money back into the team.

For more on the Washington Nationals, please visit Federal Baseball, SB Nation's Washington Nationals blog and stay tuned to SB Nation DC.

Prince Fielder Rumors: Nationals Not Expected To Be Outbid By Rangers

The Washington Nationals appear to be the favorite to win the services of free agent first baseman Prince Fielder. Jon Morosi of FOX Sports seems to hammer this point home a bit with his latest tweet:

Sources say #Rangers unlikely to outbid #Nationals for Prince Fielder. But as I wrote earlier this week, Texas has surprised us before.

— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) January 18, 2012

It's currently believed that the race for Fielder consists of less than a handful of teams, two of which being the Nationals and the Texas Rangers. As Morosi states, it doesn't sound like the Rangers have plans to outbid the Nats for the talented first baseman. Fielder met with the Rangers on Jan. 13, but it doesn't appear that much headway was made. The only issue now with Fielder coming to the Nats are the concern about the 275-pound 27-year olds health.

For more on the Washington Nationals, please visit Federal Baseball, SB Nation's Washington Nationals blog and stay tuned to SB Nation DC.

MLB Rumors: Gio Gonzalez Contract Details With Washington Nationals Surface

Earlier this week the Washington Nationals made a big splash by signing Gio Gonzalez to a big deal. Come to find out, it's the third biggest contract the Nationals have ever handed out, ranking just behind the contracts of third baseman Ryan Zimmerman (five-years, $45 million) and outfielder Jayson Werth (seven-year, $126 million). Mark Zuckerman of CSN Washington has the details on Gonzalez's contract.

2012: $3.25 million
2013: $6.25 million
2014: $8.5 million
2015: $11 million
2016: $12 million

Gonzalez also receives a $500,000 signing bonus, and is guaranteed to make at least another $500,000 if the Nationals ultimately buy out his 2017 option. Add that all up and you get the $42 million total.

The Nationals also hold a club option for the 2017 season according to Zuckerman, but the 2018 option will automatically be enacted if Gonzalez piches 180 innings in the previous year.

For more on the Washington Nationals, please visit Federal Baseball, SB Nation's Washington Nationals blog and stay tuned to SB Nation DC.

MLB Free Agency: Michael Morse, John Lannan File For Arbitration With Washington Nationals

The Washington Nationals have a few free agents they need to take care of and some players they will want to target, but they'll have to head to arbitration for a few of them. Jon Heyman of CBS has a bit of news on what exactly those players will get.

mike morse filed at $5M, nats at $3.5M

— Jon Heyman (@JonHeymanCBS) January 17, 2012

Morse is a key factor for the Nats, breaking out in the 2011 season hitting for a .301 averaging and hitting 31 homeruns. Morse also knocked in 95 RBI for the Nationals in 2011. Not only will the Nats have to deal with Morse in arbitration, but left-handed starting pitcher John Lannan also filed for arbitration.

Lannan went only 10-13 as a starter for the Nationals, but pulled in a 3.70 ERA and averaged nearly six innings per game pitched. He's still a good guy to have in the rotation and a player the Nats would like to hold on to.

For more on the Nationals, please visit Federal Baseball, SB Nation's Washington Nationals blog and stay tuned to SB Nation DC.

MLB Free Agency 2012: Tyler Clippard Avoids Arbitration, Signs One-Year Deal With Nationals

Add one more to the list of Washington Nationals players who will be operating on a one-year contract next year. The Nationals already announced the signings of Jordan Zimmermann and Tom Gorzelanny to one-year deals to avoid arbitration. Now, they have done the same with reliever Tyler Clippard, who reached the All-Star Game last year, the team announced.

It remains unclear how much Clippard will make under his one-year deal. The Nationals could have signed him to a long-term contract, but elected to simply have him take a one-year deal.

Clippard had his finest year last year, posting a 1.83 ERA in 72 appearances as the team's set-up man. He was used to hold so many leads and almost always managed to get the job done. However, he is a reliever, and relievers are prone to wild swings in performance.

For more on the Nationals, please visit Federal Baseball, SB Nation's Washington Nationals blog.

MLB Free Agency: Jordan Zimmermann Contract With Washington Nationals Worth $2.3 Million, According To Report

The Washington Nationals and pitchers Jordan Zimmermann and Tom Gorzelanny agreed to terms on one-year contracts, the team announced Tuesday morning, although it did not disclose the financial specifics of the deals. Jon Heyman of CBSSports.com helps fill in those blanks, reporting Zimmermann's contract will pay him $2.3 million for the 2012 season, while Gorzelanny will earn $2.7 million. By signing the pitchers to these contracts, the Nationals avoided going to salary arbitration with them.

Zimmermann, 25, went 8-11 in 26 starts for the Nationals in 2011, his third season at the major-league level. He posted a 3.18 earned run average, tops among Washington's starters.

Gorzelanny, 28, made 30 appearances for the Nationals in 2011, including 15 starts. He posted a 4-6 record and a 4.03 ERA, but was 2-6 with a 4.46 ERA as a starter. The Nationals acquired him from the Chicago Cubs for minor-leaguers Michael Burgess, Graham Hicks, and A.J. Morris in Jan. 2011.

For more on the Nationals, please visit Federal Baseball, SB Nation's Nationals blog.

MLB Offseason 2012: Jordan Zimmermann, Tom Gorzelanny Avoid Arbitration With Washington Nationals

The Washington Nationals have agreed to terms on the 2012 contracts for pitchers Jordan Zimmermann and Tom Gorzelanny, the team announced on Tuesday. That means the club will avoid having to go to arbitration to figure out their 2012 salaries. Washington still must agree to terms with John Lannan, Michael Morse and Tyler Clippard.

Zimmermann emerged as one of the team's top pitchers, posting a 3.18 ERA in his first year back from Tommy John surgery. He finished only 8-11 due to a lack of run support and was shut down in September as part of the team's rehab, but there is ample reason to believe he can team with Gio Gonzalez and Stephen Strasburg atop the rotation for many years. Gorzelanny, meanwhile, struggled after being acquired from the Chicago Cubs, bouncing between the rotation and long relief.

The team agreed to terms with catcher Jesus Flores on Monday.

For more on the Nationals, visit Federal Baseball.

MLB Offseason: Seven Washington Nationals File For Salary Arbitration, According To Report

The Major League Baseball salary arbitration filing deadline has passed, and seven Washington Nationals have filed. Via Bill Ladson of MLB.com:

Nationals pitchers Tyler Clippard, Gio Gonzalez, Tom Gorzelanny, John Lannan and Jordan Zimmermann, plus catcher Jesus Flores and outfielder Michael Morse filed for salary arbitration on Friday.

As part of the process, the arbitration filing period ran from Jan. 5 until Friday, with Jan. 17 set as the day for salary arbitration figures to be exchanged. From there, salary arbitration hearings are from Feb. 1-21 in St. Petersburg.

The most interesting name on that list might be first baseman/left fielder Michael Morse. Morse had a breakout season offensively for Washington, hitting .303 with 31 home runs and 95 runs batted in, and made just $1.05 million last year. Look for Morse to get a rather hefty pay raise in arbitration.

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Prince Fielder Rumors: Slugger To Meet With Texas Rangers, According To Report

Free-agent first baseman Prince Fielder will meet with representatives from the Texas Rangers on Friday, reports Bob Nightengale of USA Today. The Washington Nationals are one of the teams rumored to be in the running to sign the left-handed slugger, but the Texas meeting indicates he could be headed to the Lone Star State.

Rumors have long connected Fielder to the Nationals as Washington looks to add a power hitter to its lineup, giving the club, which is heavy on pitching talent, more balance. However, team GM Mike Rizzo has publicly downplayed the Nats' interest in Fielder on several occasions, insisting the team is committed to Adam LaRoche at first base. A report by Bill Ladson of MLB.com indicated some people in Washington's front office are concerned about Fielder's long-term health; listed at 275 pounds, if the 27-year-old's offensive skills diminish, he may be forced into a designated-hitter role.

For more on the Nationals, please visit Federal Baseball, SB Nation's Nationals blog.

Prince Fielder To Washington Nationals Would Be Monstrous Coup

The time is now for the Nationals to get Prince Fielder and build the most fearsome lineup in the NL East.

Prince Fielder Rumors: Washington Nationals Have Second Meeting With Scott Boras, According To Report

We're just about a month away from pitchers and catchers reporting to Spring Training, and we still don't know where Prince Fielder will be playing baseball in 2012 and beyond. The Nationals have been rumored to be in, and out, and the favorites and not involved at all at various times throughout this process. The latest had been that the Nationals weren't going to get involved, but now according to multiple sources relayed by our Federal Baseball blog, the Lerners met with Scott Boras during the owners meetings in Arizona.

And now two sources are confirming that tonight's sit down took place with ESPN and MLBNetworkRadio host (and former Nats' GM) Jim Bowden tweeting (@JimBowdenESPNXM) that both, "Ted and Mark Lerner [met] with Scott Boras regarding Prince Fielder tonight at the Camelback resort in Scottsdale AZ. still in on Fielder." In Washington Post writer Adam Kilgore's report, he says several teams met with Boras tonight at the owners' meetings. The Nationals were apparently one of the teams, though.

So now the Nationals are back in, supposedly. January 18th is the big date to keep an eye on in these negotiations because it is the deadline for the Texans to sign Yu Darvish, meaning they likely won't be a candidate to sign Fielder. Until then, I guess we'll just have more rumors.

For more on the Nationals, please visit Federal Baseball, SB Nation's Nationals blog.

Prince Fielder Rumors: '99 Percent Chance' Washington Nationals Won't Sign Slugger, According To Report

"The source indicated that Fielder's price must come down in order for the team to think about acquiring his services," Ladson writes.

Fielder's size is another concern of the team's. "There are members of the team's front office who believe Fielder will essentially be a designated hitter within a few years," Ladson says, noting that Fielder is listed at 275 pounds.

The latest report from Ladson continues a trend in Fielder rumor reporting: national outlets peg the Nationals as the favorites to sign Fielder, which local reports then downplay. Earlier Wednesday, Jon Morosi of FOX Sports reported Washington was leading the Fielder sweepstakes because another interested team, the Texas Rangers, will likely not have enough money to sign both Fielder and Japanese pitcher Yu Darvish, with whom they own exclusive negotiating rights.

For more on the Nationals, please visit Federal Baseball, SB Nation's Nationals blog.

Prince Fielder Rumors: Washington Nationals Still Favorite, Texas Rangers Likely Out, According To Report

The Washington Nationals remain the favorites to sign free-agent first baseman Prince Fielder, reports Jon Morosi of FOX Sports. Though the Texas Rangers are also rumored to be in the mix for the three-time All-Star, Morosi cites a source who indicates the Rangers' finances are such that they will not be able to make a competitive offer to Fielder and sign Japanese pitcher Yu Darvish.

Texas paid the Nippon Ham Fighters, Darvish's Japanese club, more than $50 million for the rights to exclusively negotiate a contract with him. That figure does not include what they'll eventually pay Darvish, who is expected to command a handsome salary. The Rangers likely cannot afford to dole out two nine-figure contracts in the same offseason, and Darvish is the higher priority.

Thus, Washington remains the leader to sign Fielder, who hit .299 with 38 homers and 120 runs batted in with the Milwaukee Brewers during the 2011 season. He ranks No. 41 among active players in home runs, with 230 overall.

For more on the Nationals, please visit Federal Baseball, SB Nation's Nationals blog.

Prince Fielder Rumors: Father Cecil Fielder Thinks Son Could Play For Nationals, According To Interview

Local 106.7 FM radio host Holden Kushner and former MLB General Manager Jim Duquette host a MLB show on SiriusXM radio, and one of their guests Sunday was former major league slugger Cecil Fielder, who just happens to be the father of free agent Price Fielder, a bopper the Washington Nationals may or may not have a lot of interest in signing, depending on what reports you listen to. Cecil and Prince's estranged relationship over the years has been a topic of media conversation, but it appears the father and son spoke on Christmas Eve, and Cecil thinks the Nationals would be a good fit for Price and ultimately that is where the younger Fielder ends up:

Full audio of the interview can be found here.

In seven major-league seasons, Fielder, 27, owns a .282 batting average with 230 homers and 656 runs batted in. The 2011 season saw the Milwaukee slugger hit .299 with 38 home runs and 120 runs batted in.

For more news, analysis, and discussion on the Washington Nationals, visit SB Nation's Nats' blog, Federal Baseball. For all your MLB free agency news, visit Baseball Nation.

Prince Fielder Rumors: Mike Rizzo Says Washington Nationals' Position 'Has Not Changed'

Though reports in recent days have indicated the Washington Nationals are the clear frontrunners to sign free-agent slugger Prince Fielder, team general manager Mike Rizzo said Thursday "I don’t know where that comes from because we haven’t gone beyond where we were at since the winter meetings," according to Amanda Comak of The Washington Times. And as Comak notes, "the Nationals were barely involved in the Fielder conversation" during winter meetings.

Rizzo also reiterated his commitment to incumbent first baseman Adam LaRoche. "We feel he’s 100 percent healthy," Rizzo said, "and when he’s 100 percent we’re going to get the 25 home runs, 85-100 RBI and great defense at first base." Rizzo also noted the presence of backup Mike Morse, who hit .303 with 31 homers in 2011 fillng in for LaRoche, who appeared in just 43 games due to a shoulder injury.

In seven major-league seasons, Fielder, 27, owns a .282 batting average with 230 homers and 656 runs batted in. His agent is Scott Boras, who also represents several Nats players, which may be another factor that explains why Washington is favored to land Fielder.

For more on the Nationals, please visit Federal Baseball, SB Nation's Nats blog.

Prince Fielder Rumors: Money Not An Issue For Washington Nationals, According To Report

As the Washington Nationals continue to weigh the merits of signing free-agent first baseman Prince Fielder, one of the potential drawbacks has been Fielder's likely prohibitive cost. Several writers have noted that the Nationals may not want to pay Fielder in light of Jayson Werth's big deal and a likely extension for Ryan Zimmerman on the horizon. It turns out that may not be a concern, though, at least according to FOX Sports' Ken Rosenthal.

Rosenthal notes the Nationals' new TV contract with MASN as evidence for the team being able to afford Fielder if they decide he's worth signing.

That revenue, reported to be $29 million a year, soon will "double, triple or more," according to a major-league source. The Nats are due to "reset" their contract with the Mid-Atlantic Sports Network to ensure that their rights fee is still market value. If no deal can be reached with the Orioles, the larger stake-holder in MASN, the case will go to arbitration.

There’s your Prince money.

That just leaves the issue of fit, and at least according to Rosenthal, the fact that Fielder's agent is Scott Boras is enough reason to believe Fielder will eventually end up in D.C.

For more on the Nationals, please visit Federal Baseball, SB Nation's Nationals blog.

Prince Fielder Rumors: Scott Boras Declins Comment On Reported Meeting With Nationals

Agent Scott Boras declined comment on a reported meeting with Nationals ownership about free agent first baseman Prince Fielder, according to a tweet from ESPN's Jerry Crasnick on Tuesday.

Bill Ladson of MLB.com reported earlier in the day that Boras was in Washington for the meeting as the Nationals are believed to be in competition with the Cubs and Mariners for Fielder's powerful services. Fielder will be entering just his eighth season in the spring and has already smacked 230 home runs and racked up a .282 lifetime batting average to go with a .930 lifetime OPS.

In 13 at bats at Nationals Park, Fielder has a .154 average with just one extra base hit, a double. Of course, that's a very small sample size, but those are his career numbers at his prospective new home ballpark nonetheless.

For more on the Nationals, please visit Federal Baseball, SB Nation's Nationals blog.

Prince Fielder Rumors: Washington Nationals Management Meets With Fielder's Agent, According To Report

Representatives from the Washington Nationals' ownership met with Scott Boras, the agent for free-agent first baseman Prince Fielder, on Monday, reports Bill Ladson of MLB.com. "It is believed the Nationals are in competition with the Mariners and Cubs," Ladson writes. Citing a source, he adds "Nationals ownership will make the final decision on whether the club signs Fielder. It's not known how many years or how much money Washington is willing to give Fielder."

Though Nationals general manager Mike Rizzo has indicated the team intends o start Adam LaRoche at first base in 2012, word of ownership's meeting with Boras strongly suggests the team is serious about landing Fielder. The 27-year-old lefty hit .299 with 38 homers and 120 runs batted in during the 2011 season, earning his third All-Star appearance and finishing third in National League MVP voting.

A shoulder injury limited LaRoche to 177 plate appearances, in which he hit .172 with three home runs. In LaRoche's absence, Mike Morse emerged, hitting .303 with 36 doubles and 31 homers in 146 games at first base and left field.

Ladson notes that Washington has a strong relationship with Boras, who also represents Nats stars Bryce Harper, Stephen Strasburg, and Jayson Werth. But a source told Ladson that Boras could be using Washington "to drive up the price with interested teams."

For more on the Nationals, please visit Federal Baseball, SB Nation's Nationals blog.

Prince Fielder Rumors: Washington Nationals Are Reported Favorite, But Obstacles Muddle Picture

The Washington Nationals may lead the race to sign free-agent first baseman Prince Fielder, Tom Haudricourt reported Tuesday, but there are some serious questions for the Nationals to consider before inking the lefty slugger to a lucrative contract. During a q-and-a session on the Washington Post's website Tuesday, columnist Tom Boswell pointed out a long-term deal for Fielder could force the Nats to trade Ryan Zimmerman. Boswell explains:

One big point gets missed. The Nats may be deciding BETWEEN Fielder and Ryan Zimmerman. One OR the other. Because if you have Fielder, Z'man and [Jayson] Werth on the roster, then they'll be making >$60M for just those three players by the '14 season. So be careful what you wish for.

Boswell notes that the Nationals' average payroll under the Lerners' ownership has been $58 million, and it reached $68 million in the 2011 season. Paying three hitters more than $60 million could financially cripple the franchise. For example, Boswell says, a fat contract for Fielder means Washington might have to trade Zimmerman, its All-Star. It might have to let newly acquired hurler Gio Gonzalez leave in free agency in 2015. It might not have the funds to re-sign star pitchers Stephen Strasburg and Jordan Zimmermann.

Would landing Fielder, a career .282 hitter with 230 homers and 656 runs batted in, be worth potentially mortgaging the Nationals' long-term future? That's the question team management faces, and Boswell ultimately believes Washington will pass on Fielder "unless [the contract is] so cheap they just can't help themselves."

For more on the Nationals, please visit Federal Baseball, SB Nation's Nationals blog.

Prince Fielder Rumors: Nationals Emerge As Favorites For Slugger, According To Report

We're now in the new calendar year of 2012 and Prince Fielder, one of the biggest names on the free agent market heading into the Winter, remains unsigned. The Nationals have been linked to him a number of times, but nothing really substantial has come of it. But according to a new report by Tom Haudricourt of the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel, the Nationals have emerged as a favorite for Fielder in baseball circles.

An MLB official told me over the weekend that word is spreading in the industry that the Washington Nationals have emerged as a favorite to sign free-agent first baseman Prince Fielder.

Based on what we have seen before from the Nationals, they will likely continue to deny these rumors until something official comes out. But Fielder would be a huge addition to the Nationals team and would go a long way towards making them a contender in the Division. He would also help out a great deal in the box office.

For more news, analysis, and discussion on the Washington Nationals, visit SB Nation's Nats' blog, Federal Baseball. For all your MLB free agency news, visit Baseball Nation.

Prince Fielder Rumors: Washington Nationals Player Says Team Still In Sweepstakes

At least one Washington Nationals player believes the team could still land free-agent first baseman Prince Fielder, a three-time All-Star. "We're in the market," one anonymous Nationals player told Jon Heyman of CBS Sports. "We're still shooting for him."

If the Nationals are indeed still aiming to sign Fielder, it'd contradict what general manager Mike Rizzo said Wednesday. Rizzo said something "extraordinary" would need to happen for anyone other than Adam LaRoche to play first base in Washington's season-opener. "Adam LaRoche is under contract for us, we're paying him a lot of money to play first base for us next year," Rizzo said. "We feel that he's going to have a bounceback season."

Due to a shoulder injury, LaRoche played in only 43 games in his first season as a National, hitting .172 with three homers and 15 runs batted in.

Fielder, 27, hit .299 with 38 homers and 120 RBI for the Milwaukee Brewers in 2011. He finished No. 3 in National League MVP voting, earned an All-Star roster spot, and took home his second Silver Slugger award.

For more Nationals coverage, please visit Federal Baseball, SB Nation's Nationals blog. For the latest MLB coverage, please visit Baseball Nation.

MLB Rumors: Mike Rizzo Shoots Down Prince Fielder Talk, Says Adam LaRoche Likely Washington Nationals' Starter

Washington Nationals fans dreaming of a scenario where the team signs Prince Fielder to be its first baseman won't be happy to hear what general manager Mike Rizzo said on Wednesday. In an interview on MLB Network Radio, Rizzo said that incumbent Adam LaRoche will start at first base barring something "extraordinary" happening. Via MLB Trade Rumors:

Adam LaRoche is under contract for us, we're paying him a lot of money to play first base for us next year. We feel that he's going to have a bounceback season. We just want him to have his career norms: .265, 25, 85-100 RBIs and play great defense. We feel that his shoulder is rehabbed, he's 100%, and talking to him just recently he feels great and he's ready to contribute to us in 2012. As far as, are we going to dabble our toe in that water? Those are decisions that we make early on in the process and we've more or less decided that Adam is going to be our first baseman unless something extraordinary, out of the ordinary happened, that's how we're going to go to Spring Training.

LaRoche struggled for the Nationals last year before suffering a season-ending shoulder injury. The team signed him to a two-year contract prior to the 2011 season.

For more news, analysis, and discussion on the Washington Nationals, visit SB Nation's Nats' blog, Federal Baseball. For all your MLB free agency news, visit Baseball Nation.

MLB Offseason: Mark DeRosa Contract With Washington Nationals Confirmed By Team

The Washington Nationals bolstered their roster Wednesday when they announced the signing of veteran utility player Mark DeRosa to a one-year contract. The 14-year-veteran "is expected to be a backup first baseman and make occasional starts in the outfield and at second and third base," according to Bill Ladson of MLB.com. Ladson notes the injury to first baseman Chris Marrero, who will miss the start of the 2012 season, made DeRosa's signing more urgent.

DeRosa spent the first seven seasons of his career with the Atlanta Braves before bouncing around the league; he's played for five teams in the last seven seasons, and each of the lat two with the San Francisco Giants. In 201 plate appearances over 73 games with the Giants, DeRosa hit .235 with one homer and 22 runs batted in. In the field, he committed four errors in 63 chances for a 93.7 fielding percentage.

For more on the Nationals, please visit Federal Baseball, SB Nation's Nationals blog.

Gio Gonzalez Traded To Washington Nationals For Four Prospects, According To Report

The Washington Nationals made a long-awaited deal to bolster their starting rotation Thursday, trading four highly-rated prospects to the Oakland Athletics in exchange for left-handed pitcher Gio Gonzalez.

According to Keith Law of ESPN and Scouts, Inc., the Nationals sent A.J. Cole, Brad Peacock, Derek Norris, and Tommy Milone to the Athletics in exchange for the 26-year-old Gonzalez, who went 16-12 with a 3.12 ERA in 32 starts and 202 innings pitched in 2011.

Nationals General Manager Mike Rizzo had come under heavy criticism for missing out on free agent pitcher Mark Buehrle at the Winter Meetings earlier this month (Buehrle signed with the Miami Marlins). Gonzalez is expected to be Washington's third starter in 2012, behind Stephen Strasburg and Jordan Zimmermann.

Three of the four prospects dealt to Oakland (Cole, Peacock, and Norris) were rated among the top 10 in Washington's system, according to Baseball America. Peacock and Milone finished the 2011 season with AAA Syracuse. Norris finished 2011 at Class A Hagerstown, while Cole was at AA Harrisburg.

Nationals Sign Mark DeRosa To One-Year Major League Deal, According To Report

And so it is done. Or if it's not done, it's pretty darn close. Jon Heyman of CBS Sports reported Thursday afternoon that the Nationals have agreed to terms with utility man Mark DeRosa, pending a physical. Official terms haven't leaked out yet, but Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports reported late Wednesday night that DeRosa was likely to sign a one-year major league deal and would primarily serve as a right-handed bat off the bench for Davey Johnson.

The Nationals will be DeRosa's seventh big-league team since he was drafted by the Atlanta Braves in 1996. DeRosa, who will turn 37 in February, struggled with a wrist injury for much of 2010 and 2011, only managing to play 73 games over those two seasons. In 2009, DeRosa played 139 games for the Cleveland Indians and St. Louis Cardinals, posting an on-base percentage of .319 and an OPS of .752 in 576 plate appearances.

Thomas Boswell Eviscerates The Nationals

MLB Free Agency: Nationals Nearing Deal With Mark DeRosa, According To Report

The Washington Nationals have been looking for some help off their bench this offseason, and until now, they haven't really been able to land an impact player to help them there. But according to Amanda Comak of the Washington Times, the team might be close to landing super-utility man Mark DeRosa, who would fill the Nats' need perfectly. Manager Davey Johnson knows DeRosa, and understands that he can help the club.

“I looked at his last two years and they weren’t too stellar,” Johnson said at the winter meetings in early December. “I know he had injured his left wrist but I had him in the World Baseball Classic, and he’s a really quality guy. I really like him. If he’s healthy, he fits the role about as good as you can get.”

DeRosa could fill in off the bench in a number of position, but would like focus on the corner outfield and corner infield spots.

We'll have more on this signing if it becomes official, but for more on all things Nationals baseball head over to Federal Baseball.

Gio Gonzalez Trade Rumors: Washington Nationals Make Gonzalez Their 'Top Priority', According To Report

The Washington Nationals, in an attempt to find a top-of-the-line starter to pair with Stephen Strasburg, are making it their "top priority" to acquire Oakland Athletics pitcher Gio Gonzalez in a trade, according to MLB.com's Bill Ladson. The Nationals would have to surrender several prospects to land Gonzalez, but they appear to be willing to do so.

Trying to acquire A's left-hander Gio Gonzalez is the Nationals' top priority, according to a baseball source. The clubs are trying to work out a deal that would send four players to Oakland, and it is believed that Gonzalez will be traded soon.

The Athletics are especially looking at right-handed pitcher Cole Kimball and catches Derek Norris. Jon Heyman of CBS Sports indicates the Nationals seem willing to surrender more prospects as well.

Gonzalez finished 16-12 with a 3.12 ERA and 197 strikeouts last season. He is not arbitration-eligible until 2012. Ladson reports that the Nationals would pursue Roy Oswalt only as a backup plan.

For more on the Nationals, visit Federal Baseball.

Prince Fielder Rumors: Washington Nationals Among Teams Interested, According To Report

The Washington Nationals were linked to Prince Fielder a lot before the offseason began and through the Winter Meetings, despite the fact that officials with the team have reportedly shot down rumors that they were interested. But they continue to be mentioned along with other suitors, the latest coming from Jon Heyman of CBS Sports who lists the Nationals with the Mariners and the Orioles as teams that may have the most interest in Fielder late in the free agent season.

The Nationals have been keeping a low profile on their pursuit and it's unknown where they stand but signs suggest they do have Fielder on their radar. He isn't a perfect fit as they already have Mike Morse and Adam LaRoche for first base, though they could move Morse to the outfield and LaRoche is a small expense compared to Fielder.

Fielder would be the marquee pickup that Nationals fans have been clamoring for this offseason, even if his addition would mean having to shuffle some of the other pieces on the roster. If you can bring Prince Fidler into the fold, you don't worry about having Adam LaRoche in front of him. We'll have to see if this interest is just reported or if the Nationals are actually trying to obtain the slugger.

MLB Rumors: Roy Oswalt Open To One-Year Contract, Washington Nationals Interested, According To Reports

ESPN's Jerry Crasnick reports that interest in free agent pitcher Roy Oswalt is picking up now that he has told teams he only wants a one-year contract. The Washington Times' Amanda Comak tweets that she looks for the Washington Nationals' interest in the former Philadelphia Phillies and Houston Astros pitcher to remain with the news.

The 34-year old veteran is coming off 9-10 record with the Phillies in 2011. He posted a 3.69 ERA and 93 strikeouts in 139.0 innings pitched and battled a back injury for much of the second half of the season.

In 2010, his last full season, Oswalt went 13-13 with a 2.76 ERA and 193 strikeouts in 32 starts between the Astros and Phillies. His last contract was a five-year deal with the Astros that payed him $71 million.

For all the latest on the Nationals, be sure to check out Federal Baseball, SB Nation's Washington Nationals baseball blog.

Nationals Agree To Terms With Nine Players On Minor League Deals, Pass Out Spring Training Invites To Three

While fans of the Washington Nationals wait on the outcome of possible trade rumors surrounding Gio Gonzalez, the team has been busy shoring up their minor league system and preparing for Spring Training auditions in March. They have agreed to terms with nine players on minor league deals while extending an invitation to Spring Training to three players. Press Release:

The Washington Nationals have agreed to terms with right-handed pitchers Jeff Fulchino and Waldis Joaquin, catcher Carlos Maldonado, infielders Andres Blanco, Jarrett Hoffpauir and Chad Tracy, and outfielders Brett Carroll, Jason Michaels and Xavier Paul on minor-league contracts with invitations to Spring Training. Additionally, the Nationals extended Spring Training invites to right-handed pitcher Rafael Martin, catcher Sandy Leon and outfielder Corey Brown.

Nationals fans probably know Maldonado and Brown from that list. Maldonado had a cup of coffee with the Nats in 2010 when he appeared in four games when the Nationals were having trouble keeping their catchers healthy at the time. Brown is a potential future outfielder who has been plagued by injuries. Injuries cut short his 2011 Spring Training campaign and his 2011 September call-up.

All in all, these are basic "filler" moves and it is doubtful any of them leave Viera with the team come April.

Gio Gonzalez Trade Rumors: Washington Nationals Making A Push To Trade For Athletics Lefty, According To Report

While the Washington Nationals may have failed to make a big splash on the free agency market so far, reports on Monday night linked the Nats to one of the biggest pitching prizes on the offseason trade market. Fox's Ken Rosenthal tweeted that Washington was making a push to acquire Oakland's young lefty starter Gio Gonzalez.

Via @Ken_Rosenthal:

Sources: #Nationals pushing hard for Gio. Discussing 4-for-1 trade with #Athletics. #MLB

Gonzalez has been linked with a host of teams over the past week, including the Cincinnati Reds, Texas Rangers, Detroit Tigers, and both the New York Mets and Yankees. Gonzalez has pitched 200 innings in each of the past two seasons, compiling a 31-21 overall record with an ERA just above 3.00 in each season.

He is a talented and highly coveted young lefty, but just this week Jon Heyman reported that the A's were asking the Yankees for their top hitting prospect and their top two pitching prospects in a proposed trade. One has to wonder what kind of haul, reportedly four players strong, the Nats are considering sending out to the Bay Area.

For more news, analysis, and discussion on the Washington Nationals, visit SB Nation's Nats' blog, Federal Baseball. For all your MLB free agency news, visit Baseball Nation.

Mike Cameron Signs With Nationals, New Twitter Hashtag Is Born

Mike Cameron To Sign With Washington Nationals, According To Report

The Washington Nationals have made a move in free agency, signing veteran outfielder Mike Cameron, according to Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports. Cameron split time with the Boston Red Sox and Florida Marlins last season, and will likely be a part-time player for the Nationals next season.

Cameron, who turns 39 in 2012, really struggled last season, hitting .203 with nine home runs and 27 RBIs. He was counted on to be a regular player with the Red Sox, but instead played so badly that he was traded to the Marlins for a player to be named later. Cameron was a little better with the Marlins, but was still released in mid-September, before the season ended.

It remains unclear how much the Nationals will count on Cameron next season. The team has discussed moving Jayson Werth to center field to make room for Bryce Harper. Otherwise, Cameron could end up being a starter for the team next year despite his advancing age and declining skills.

For more on the Nationals, visit Federal Baseball.

Yu Darvish Rumors: Washington Nationals Did Not Bid On Japanese Pitcher, According To Report

The final decision on which MLB team will have the chance to sign Japanese pitcher Yu Darvish will come later on Friday, but we know the winner will not be the Washington Nationals. The Nationals will not be bidding on Darvish, according to Adam Kilgore of the Washington Post.

The identity of the team that won the right to negotiate with Yu Darvish has yet to be revealed, but we can count out the Nationals. Washington did not submit a posting bid, according to multiple people with knowledge, opting to stay on the sidelines of a sweepstakes that will cost whomever lands the Japanese superstar upwards of $100 million.

The Nationals had expressed interest in Darvish, but with teams likely to have to bid around $50 million just to get the chance to sign him to a contract, the price simply was too rich. The Toronto Blue Jays are reportedly in the driver's seat for Darvish's services.

For more on Darvish, visit Baseball Nation.

MLB Rumors: Nationals Show Interest In Infielder Greg Dobbs

The Winter Meetings are long over, but the Washington Nationals off season continues and they continue to look for pieces that would make them progressive and competitive in a NL East division that has gotten stronger. Currently the Nationals are expressing interest in 33-year old Greg Dobbs for their bench, according to a source.

Dobbs is a left-handed hitter coming off a strong year with the Miami Marlins where he hit .275 with eight home runs and 49 RBIs. Dobbs was also a part of the 2008 Philadelphia Phillies championship team so he has "been there, done that" and his experience only makes him more attractive to GM Mike Rizzo and the Nationals. If the Nationals were to sign Dobbs, he would be reunited with fellow player and friend Jayson Werth who was also on the 2008 Phillies team.

Dobbs' name joins a growing list of potential bench players for the Nationals. Over the past couple weeks the Nats have also expressed interested in super-utility man Willie Harris and Mark DeRosa who can also play multiple positions. The Nationals had a sub par bench in 2011 and will need improvements in 2012.

Considering the Nationals off season thus far, bench players won't satisfy the growing appetites of the fans nor settle their annoyance at the lack of action on the transaction front this winter, but at this point the Nationals will probably have to take what they can get.

MLB Rumors: Washington Nationals Still Interested In Yu Darvish, According To Report

The Washington Nationals have been looking for another pitcher to add to their stable of young arms this offseason, but through the Winter Meetings they've come up empty. But another addition could be on the horizon, or maybe not, according to Bill Ladson of MLB.com.

The Nationals continue to express interest in Yu Darvish, according to a baseball source. But the source was not sure if the Nationals will put in a bid on the right-hander. The Nationals have until 5 p.m. ET on Wednesday to make a bid on Darvish. The source believes the Rangers and Blue Jays will have two of the largest bids. Darvish, 25, is considered an ace pitcher who could help a young rotation that includes Stephen Strasburg and Jordan Zimmermann. Last year, Darvish won 18 games and had a 1.44 ERA for the Nippon Ham Fighters of the Japanese Pacific League.

Darvish would fit nicely with Jordan Zimmermann and Stephen Strasburg, and the three could all grow up together in the Majors. We'll have to wait until later on Wednesday to see if they'll even have the opportunity to negotiate with Darvish.

MLB Free Agency 2011: Washington Nationals Will Tender Contract Offers To Michael Morse, Tyler Clippard, Jordan Zimmerman

As the midnight deadline for tendering offers approaches on Monday night, it appears that the Washington Nationals will tender contract offers to six of the seven players who were unsigned. These are players who are unsigned but still arbitration-eligible and on the roster, with the Nationals having the ability to retain control. It was reported earlier in the night that lefty reliever Doug Slaten would be a non-tender. According to reports, he will be the only one, as the Nats plan to tender offers to Michael Morse, John Lannan, Jordan Zimmermann, Tyler Clippard, Jesus Flores, and Tom Gorzelanny.

Via Mark Zuckerman:

Nats official says all others will be tendered: Clippard, Flores, Gorzelanny, Lannan, Morse, Zimmermann.

All six players have until next month negotiate their salaries for the upcoming season, or else enter the formal arbitration process. As Zuckerman reports, the only real toss-up decision was Gorzelanny, whose tender likely means the Nats will keep the lefty in the bullpen to serve as a long reliever.

For more news, analysis, and discussion on the Washington Nationals, visit SB Nation's Nats' blog, Federal Baseball.

MLB Free Agency 2011: Washington Nationals Non-tender Reliever Doug Slaten

The deadline for offering contracts to unsigned players hits at midnight on Monday for the Washington Nationals. The club must tender contract offers to all of the unsigned players on their roster but for whom they still have control. This process announces their intention to either offer a contract or let the player hit the free agency market, and is a more vexing decision for those who are arbitration eligible.

According to reports, the Nats made a decision on lefty reliever Doug Slaten. They will non-tender Slaten, which means his tenure as a National is likely coming to an end. Adam Kilgore of the Washington post first reported the move.

Via Adam Kilgore of The Washington Post:

The Nats will non-tender lefty reliever Doug Slaten, source says. Not a real surprise. Still waiting official word on other six guys.

The 31 year old Slaten had a marginal role with the Nats last season. He appeared in 31 games, posting a 4.41 ERA in just 16.1 innings of work.

For more news, analysis, and discussion on the Washington Nationals, visit SB Nation's Nats' blog, Federal Baseball.

MLB Rumors: Washington Nationals Offered Mark Buehrle Three-Year, $39 Million Deal, According To Report

It's been a few days since the Washington Nationals lost out to the Miami Marlins in the Mark Buehrle sweepstakes. Buehrle ultimately signed a four-year, $58 million deal with the Marlins, making many wonder what the Nationals were offering him. Now, we know what that offer was, thanks to Adam Kilgore of the Washington Post.

According to a person with knowledge of the situation, the Nationals’ best offer to Buehrle was $39 million over three years – $19 million less than the Marlins paid in overall guaranteed money and $1.5 million less in average annual value. Buehrle felt Washington was a good fit for him and his family, but the Marlins convinced him to head instead to a divisional rival.

General manager Mike Rizzo made clear throughout the process that he was not willing to give the 32-year old Buehrle a four-year contract, despite his durability. The Marlins were, and therefore were able to steal Buehrle away.

Washington Nationals Trade Colin Balester To Detroit Tigers For Ryan Perry

The Washington Nationals and Detroit Tigers made a minor trade on Friday, swapping a pair of long relievers in the hopes that both improve with a change of scenery. The Nationals sent right-hander Colin Balester to the Tigers and received right-hander Ryan Perry in return, the team announced in a press release on Friday.

Perry is a 24-year old reliever that has a 5-6 record and a 4.07 ERA in three seasons for Detroit. Last season, he pitched in 36 games and had a 5.35 ERA while hurling in 37 innings. 

Balester is one of the few members of the organization drafted when it was the Montreal Expos. The 25-year old went 5-16 with a 5.17 ERA in 62 appearances, including 22 starts, since 2008.

MLB Rumors: Bryce Harper Reportedly Has Very Good Chance To Make Major League Roster Out Of Spring Training

The Nationals have been looking for an outfielder all offseason long, but their efforts have been mostly fruitless. But there is a pretty good outfield prospect in the organization, Bryce Harper, who may be the organizations best chance at a difference making outfielder. The only question is if he is ready or if he is too young for immediate major league action. According to one report, the Nationals seem very likely to give him a chance right out of spring training.

Harper is without question the best prospect in the organization, and arguably the best prospect in the game of baseball. He could provide a nice amount of pop as a left-hander, but it will probably take him a significant amount of time to adjust to major league pitching, especially considering he would be making the jump straight from an abbreviated stay in AA.

The big story here is that Harper will still be 19 years old when Spring Training breaks in the Spring and won't turn 20 until mid October of next year. I don't think anyone thought that Harper would be in the Majors after only one year in the Minors, but if they can't find a better outfield option via trade or free agency, it might be their only option.

MLB Free Agency: Nationals Reportedly Interested In Bringing Back Rick Ankiel

The Washington Nationals headed down to the Winter Meetings in Dallas this week with a lot of expectations and hopes to get a big deal done. Four days late and they're still working on their first signing, and according to Jon Heyman, that first signing is actually a re-signing; of outfielder Rick Ankiel.

Ankiel was a frustrating player for the Nationals last year. He would show flashes of brilliance in the outfield and occasional power at the plate, but he just didn't get on base nearly enough to be an everyday player at any position. But as a fourth or even fifth outfielder who could serve as a defensive replacement late in games, Ankiel could be very good.

It might not be the big move that Nationals fans were hoping for coming into this week, but the Nationals are hoping to upgrade their bench, and as long as they produce a player that can start over Ankiel in the outfield, he could be a very solid pickup for the bench.

MLB Rumors: Washington Nationals Target Roy Oswalt After Missing Mark Buehrle, According To Report

The Washington Nationals made an offer to free-agent pitcher Mark Buehrle, but he rejected it and signed a four-year, $58 million deal with the Miami Marlins instead. With Buehrle out of the picture, the Nationals have targeted Roy Oswalt, according to Adam Kilgore of the Washington Post.

Mark Buehrle Signs Four-Year, $58 Million Deal With Marlins, Spurns Nationals, According To Report

The Washington Nationals' pursuit of free-agent pitcher Mark Buehrle has seemingly ended in defeat at the hands of a division rival. Buehrle has elected to sign a four-year, $58 million deal with the Miami Marlins instead, according to FOX Sports' Ken Rosenthal.

The Nationals were in heavy pursuit of Buehrle, with general manager Mike Rizzo confirming that they gave Buehrle what Rizzo believed was a fair market offer. It remains unclear exactly what that offer was. The Nationals did offer Buehrle a contract that was for at least three years, according to CSN Washington's Mark Zuckerman. It remains unclear if they went for a fourth year.

It also remains to be seen if the Nationals elect to chase another free-agent pitcher. They had previously denied interest in Texas Rangers' lefty C.J .Wilson.

We'll be covering the Winter Meetings and all of the Nationals potential dealings this week in this StoryStream. For more on the Nationals, check out Federal Baseball.

Mark Buehrle Rumors: Mike Rizzo Confirms Washington Nationals Offered Buehrle A Contract

The Washington Nationals have been in heavy pursuit of Chicago White Sox free-agent pitcher Mark Buehrle, and that has been confirmed by general manager Mike RIzzo. In an interview with reporters at the 2011 Winter Meetings in Dallas, Rizzo said the Nationals have made a formal offer to Buehrle.

Via Adam Kilgore of the Washington Post:

Mike Rizzo made a "legitimate, fair, market value" offer to Buehrle. Seems confident. "I feel good about it."

It's now on Buehrle to accept or reject the offer. The Miami Marlins are also interested in Buehrle, but have set their sights on C.J. Wilson instead, according to the latest MLB rumors.

Buehrle went 13-9 with a 3.59 ERA last year for the White Sox. The 31-year old has thrown at least 200 innings in each of the last 11 years.

We'll be covering the Winter Meetings and all of the Nationals potential dealings this week in this StoryStream. For more on the Nationals, check out Federal Baseball.

MLB Rumors: Washington Nationals A 'Finalist' To Sign Mark Buehrle, According To Report

The Washington Nationals are among the "finalists" to sign free-agent starting pitcher Mark Buehrle, reports Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports. The other team in the running is the Miami Marlins, who have apparently set their sights on C.J. Wilson, another free-agent left-hander, and have reportedly offered him a six-year contract. As Rosenthal notes, "if Marlins get C.J., that seemingly would leave Buehrle for Nats."

Buehrle, 32, has spent his entire 12-year career with the Chicago White Sox. That career includes one perfect game, four All-Star appearances, and three Gold Glove awards. His record stands at 161-119 with a 3.83 earned run average. In 2011, the Missouri native posted a 13-9 record and a 3.59 ERA.

Buehrle is regarded as something of a workhorse. In his 11 full seasons, he's never pitched fewer than 201 innings, and has led the American League in innings pitched and games started on two occasions.

We'll be covering the Winter Meetings and all of the Nationals potential dealings this week in this StoryStream. For more on the Nationals, check out Federal Baseball.

MLB Free Agency: Washington Nationals Meet With Mark Buehrle, Mike Rizzo Confirms

With C.J. Wilson talk on the backburner (if it ever actually existed), the Washington Nationals continue to hone in on Chicago White Sox free agent Mark Buehrle, according to the latest MLB rumors. General manager Mike Rizzo confirmed the Nationals met with Buehrle and said he felt he made a "connection" with him. Via Adam Kilgore of the Washington Post:

"There was a connection there," Rizzo said. "I went in there and really gave him a presentation of what we’re all about, what we’re trying to do now, what we’re trying to do in the future, what part does he play in it. How his family would be impacted, how we take care of players’ wives, security. All those factors came into it. It was a well-rounded presentation to show all the facets."

Buehrle has narrowed his choice down to five teams, and the Nationals are one of them. He is seeking a four-year contract, according to Bill Ladson of MLB.com. The 32-year old was 13-9 with a 3.59 ERA for the White Sox last season.

We'll be covering the Winter Meetings and all of the Nationals potential dealings this week in this StoryStream. For more on the Nationals, check out Federal Baseball.

MLB Rumors: Nationals Rebuffed By Yankees When Inquiring About Brett Gardner, According To Report

The Washington Nationals have been silent so far during the Winter Meetings with not much known who they are targeting and what they are approaching potential free agents with. Starting pitching and bench players are currently Nationals needs, but so is an everyday center fielder. With Grady Sizemore going back with the Cleveland Indians, this year's crop of remaining free agent center fielders is not hot so it was thought the Nationals might be slowing their search for the middle outfield position.

However, Pete Kerzel from MASN says that sources told him the Nationals have been active in searching for a center fielder and have approached the New York Yankees about Brett Gardner. Gardner hit .259 in 159 games for the Yanks in 2011 and is considered one of the best defensive outfielders in the game. So far though, New York isn't interested as attempts to talk about a trade for Gardner have been "rebuffed."

So the search continues for a Nationals center fielder in Dallas, in a climate that is beginning to feel a little smothering to the Nationals and their fans.

2011 MLB Rumors: Washington Nationals Can Benefit By Making Early Splash At Winter Meetings

The Washington Nationals have kept their name in plenty of Winter Meetings rumors, but have yet to strike gold. A quick and hard strike at the Winter Meetings would benefit the Nationals as they build towards contention.

C.J. Wilson Rumors: Washington Nationals Deny Offering Six-Year Contract, According To Report

The MLB rumor mill went ablaze after a previous report suggesting that the Washington Nationals offered Texas Rangers' left-handed pitcher C.J. Wilson a six-year contract. However, it looks like that rumor is not true. Three Washington Nationals sources have denied the report to Adam Kilgore of the Washington Post, and Jim Bowden reports that general manager Mike Rizzo himself has denied interest.

The Nationals would have had to pay a premium for Wilson, who is arguably the top free-agent pitcher on the market. He finished 16-7 last season and was the ace of the Rangers' staff, but is also 30 years old and struggled in the postseason. The Nationals want another top-line starter and have also pursued Mark Buehrle, who could come cheaper than Wilson.

We'll be covering the Winter Meetings and all of the Nationals potential dealings this week in this StoryStream. For more on the Nationals, check out Federal Baseball.

MLB Rumors: C.J. Wilson Draws Washington Nationals' Eye, According To Report

The latest MLB rumor du jour has the Washington Nationals making a big push to sign Texas Rangers' left-handed pitcher C.J. Wilson, arguably the top free agent on the market. Despite reports that the Nationals are more interested in pursuing Mark Buerhle, a rumor by Sirius XM radio host and former major league manager Jim Duquette suggests the Nationals are offering Wilson a six-year contract.

Source- Nationals have offered a 6th year to CJ Wilson.

Wilson would be the top-of-the-rotation starter the Nationals are seeking, but as the top free-agent pitcher on the market, he will likely command a major contract. Wilson went 16-7 with a 2.94 ERA for the Rangers last season, but also struggled in the playoffs and is 30 years old. Will the Nationals really commit to spending a ton of money on a player older than 30 for the second straight year after Jayson Werth struggled last season?

We'll be covering the Winter Meetings and all of the Nationals potential dealings this week in this StoryStream. For more on the Nationals, check out Federal Baseball.

MLB Rumors: Washington Nationals Offer Mark Buehrle A Contract, According To Report

The Washington Nationals have had their name mentioned plenty during Day One of the 2011 Winter Meetings, but the majority has been nothing but rumors and little is known at who or what General Manager is targeting, pretending to target or just straight out going for.

Ken Rosenthal reports that the Nationals are one of four teams to have an offer down on the table for free agent pitcher Mark Buehrle. The 32-year old right handed starter is considered one of the heftier prizes this off season and it is no surprise the Nationals, starving for a front line veteran to lead a young pitching stable, have locked their cross hairs on Buehrle.

The Florida Marlins, Texas Rangers and Minnesota Twins are also known to have contracts down for Buehrle, but the Twins seems to be the weakest of the bunch. The three other teams, including the Nats, have offered three years and somewhere in $36-$39 million range.

MLB Winter Meetings: Mike Rizzo Discusses No-Trade Clauses, Bryce Harper

Washington Nationals general manager Mike Rizzo gave an interview with the press on the first day of the 2011 Winter Meetings, and the most significant subjects discussed were the prospect of giving a player a no-trade clause and the status of Bryce Harper.

On the former topic, Rizzo said that while he's normally averse to handing them out, he did do it for Jayson Werth last year and could do it again for the right player. Via CSN Washington's Mark Zuckerman:

"I guess we've opened that door," Rizzo said this afternoon during his daily press briefing. "We prefer not to, and they'll be a huge part of the negotiation. But for the right player and the right fit, I think you have to be open-minded and flexible enough to at least think about it and talk about."

Rizzo also said that while the team is looking for a new center fielder, they could shift Werth to right field because Bryce Harper could be ready for the majors as soon as next season, according to Bill Ladson of MLB.com

We'll be covering the Winter Meetings and all of the Nationals potential dealings this week in this StoryStream. For more on the Nationals, check out Federal Baseball.

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MLB Rumors: Todd Coffey Not Sure If He'll Return To Nationals

Day One of the Winter Meetings have kicked off and so far little but speculation and conjuncture has come out of the Washington Nationals camp and many are unsure of what direction the team and General Manager Mike Rizzo are headed this week as they wheel and deal in Dallas, Texas.

Unsure of his future with the Nationals also is right-handed reliever Todd Coffey. Bill Ladson reports Coffey is unsure if he will be returning to Washington for another go around. Coffey finished the 2011 campaign with a 3.62 ERA in 69 games and will be looking to talk to Rizzo about any possible future with the team at the Winter Meetings sometime this week. Coffey is also well known for his aggressive mad dashes from the bullpen to the mound in an effort to pump himself up. These sprints have appropriately been labeled "Coffey Time."

While not a prime player, Coffey could certainly help out a Nationals bullpen who tended to rely a little too heavy on relievers Tyler Clippard and Drew Storen in 2011 and who will need more arm help in 2012. On whether he'd like to return to Washington Coffey said:

"In my heart of hearts, if it's the right contract, I would look to definitely come back to the Nationals."

Not much is known if other teams are interested in Coffey's surfaces but Ladson says a source told him there are two teams in the National League East and NL Central and three teams in the American League West that have showed interest.

MLB Free Agency: Updating The Nationals Search For A Center Fielder As Winter Meetings Begin

The Nationals have been looking for a center fielder since the Nyjer Morgan experiment was officially delcared a failure during training camp last year. This is the first shot they'll have to fill that whole in free agency, but according to Mark Zuckerman of CSN Washington, they might have to fill that whole via a trade.

With no real attractive center fielders on the free-agent market -- Coco Crisp doesn't appear to be on their radar at the moment -- the Nationals are probably going to have to seek to fill this need via trade. Rizzo pretty much said this himself publicly prior to the meetings. So who's in the mix? Various names were being tossed around yesterday, including the Angels' Peter Bourjos, the Rays' B.J. Upton and the Mets' Angel Pagan.

Free agent signings are typically the headline of the Winter Meetings, but a lot of trades get executed as well because there are officials from every team there as well.

Zuckerman describes Bourjous as the most attractive option because he is very young, signed to a reasonable rate and his production seems to match exactly what the Nationals are looking for in a centerfielder/leadoff hitter.

We'll be covering the Winter Meetings and all of the Nationals potential dealings this week in this StoryStream. For more on the Nationals, check out Federal Baseball.

MLB Rumors 2011: Winter Meetings Begin, Washington Nationals Expected To Be Active

The MLB Winter Meetings, when a lot of the big free agent signing will take place, began on Monday. This is the big center of activity for all of the teams and free agents, and a lot of deals will be signed and trades executed. It's one of the more exciting times in Baseball that doesn't actually include any games.

If you remember, it was the Sunday right before the Winter Meetings that the Nationals shocked the Baseball world and signed Jayson Werth to that blockbuster contract. It was their official announcement that they were ready to spend, and compete, with the big boys.

That pattern was continued this year. The Marlins, previously thought to be a a small-time spender and NL East doormat, signed Jose Reyes to a huge contract on Sunday night, announcing they had the same intentions as the Nationals.

The Nats have been tied to several big names heading into this week, including but not limited to; Prince Fielder, Yoenis Cespedes, Mark Buehrle, Roy Oswalt and C.J. Wilson.

We'll be covering the Winter Meetings and all of the Nationals potential dealings this week in this StoryStream. For more on the Nationals, check out Federal Baseball.

MLB Free Agency: Laynce Nix Agrees To Two Year Deal With Philadelphia Phillies, According To Report

Former Washington Nationals' left fielder Laynce Nix has agreed to a deal with the Philadelphia Phillies, according to CSNPhilly. The deal is reportedly worth two years and will be completed pending a physical. Jim Salisbury of Comcast Philadelphia tweeted the news first.

Via Jim Salisbury of CSNPhilly:

Phillies have reached agreement with free agent Laynce Nix, sources tell CSNphilly.com. Deal is pending physical.

Nix was with the Nationals for only one season, playing in 124 games last year. He hit .250 with the Nats and belted a career high 16 homers, good enough for fourth best on the team in 2011. Nix also finished with 44 RBIs in his one season with Washington. 

He is joining division rival Philadelphia and will likely be used in a spot role, as an extra outfielder for what many consider to be the National League's best team. 

For more on the Nationals dynamic free agency hunt, visit Federal Baseball.

MLB Free Agency Rumors: C.J. Wilson Reportedly Nationals 'Top Target'

The Nationals came into the offseason seeking two things more than any other; a veteran starting pitcher (preferably lefty) to help augment their young rotation, and an outfielder with a good on base percentage who could potentially lead off. Sure, they might take a star first baseman along the way, but those were the two things they wanted over anything else.

It just so happened that the best starting pitcher on the free agent market is a left hander from Texas named C.J. Wilson. Knowing what we know about their intentions for this offseason, it should come as no surprise that the Nationals have reportedly made Wilson their "top target."

The Nationals want a left handed starting pitcher to balance out their rotation which is currently led by right handers Stephen Strasburg and Jordan Zimmermann. They were also seeking out a veteran who could help teach their young rotation about what it means to be a successful major leaguer. C.J. Wilson definitely checks both of those boxes.

Nationals Free Agency Rumors 2011: Is Yoenis Cespedes Plan B In Washington?

We wrote earlier this week that the Nationals were still interested in first baseman Prince Fielder to add a little bit of pop to their lineup. But talks have reportedly hit a little bit of a snag, and with so many other options out there, the Nationals may be looking to move on to their plan b. According to a number of sources as compiled by our very own Federal Baseball, that other option might be Cuban center fielder Yoenis Cespedes.

Cespedes has yet to become a free agent officially, as he is still awaiting temporary citizenship in the Dominican Republic. But once that happens the move to become a free agent should happen pretty quickly.

Cespedes is still young and could be a building block player for the Nationals, while filling in their gaping whole in center field. But according to a chat with Bill Ladson of MLB.com, Cespedes might not be able to walk right into the major leagues, as was originally reported.

I have never seen Cespedes play. However, last week, I spoke to an opposing scout who felt that Cespedes is not as big league ready as reports have indicated. The scout believes Cespedes will have problems hitting breaking balls and should start his professional career in Double-A. Based on published reports, it appears that the Nationals are trying hard to acquire Cespedes' services. I hope to know more once the Winter Meetings start in Dallas on Dec. 5.

MLB Free Agent Rumors: Nationals Put First Baseman Mark DeRosa On Scope After Chris Marrero Injured

The Washington Nationals potential 2012 first base situation has gotten more interesting thanks to an unfortunate injury. Bill Ladson reports that Nats first base man Chris Marrero tore his hamstring two weeks ago while playing for the Licey Tigers in the Dominican Winter League.

Marrero denies reports the hamstring injury is so serious that he will miss the whole 2012 campaign, however he admits he will miss part of Spring Training just to make sure he comes back at full health. This has caused the Nationals to begin to look for a first base alternative or more depth at the position as it was recently reported they are in pursuit of free agent Prince Fielder. Talks with Fielder hit an apparent snag, but in the meantime the Nats have cast their nets wider and now seem to have Mark DeRosa on their radar.

DeRosa is coming off a .279 with 12 RBIs in 47 2011 campaign with the San Francisco Giants. He can play multiple infield and outfield positions and is viewed as a possible valuable piece off the bench, especially at first base position which he can also play. General Manager Mike Rizzo is expected to go hard after bench help of DeRosa's type during the Winter Meetings in Dallas, Texas next week.

The Nationals have Adam LaRoche penciled in to start 2012 as their first base man for now, but that might very well change possibly depending on what happens at the Winter Meetings and in the twilight of the off season.

MLB Free Agency Rumors 2011: Washington Nationals Reportedly Still In Aggressive Pursuit of Prince Fielder

The Washington Nationals are reportedly quite interested in adding prized free agent slugger, Prince Fielder, according to Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports. For the first part of free agency, the attention seemed to be on the Nationals' interest in acquiring starting pitching. The Nats signed veteran right hander Chien-Ming Wang, and then pursued both Mark Buerhle and Roy Oswalt as well.

The focus then turned to Cuban sensation Yoenis Cespedes, a 26-year old center fielder who would add pop to the lineup and athleticism to the outfield.  According to Rosenthal, Cespedes may still be targeted by Washington, but only if negotiations with Fielder don't materialize.

Talks with Fielder hit a significant roadblock on Monday, one source said, prompting the Nats to revisit Cespedes as an alternative.

Cespedes, 26, is not yet on the open market; he first must establish temporary residence in the Dominican Republic, a development that is expected any day now.

Fielder, 27, is the Nationals’ primary target, at least among offensive players, sources said. The Nats also are pursuing high-end starting pitchers, including free agents C.J. Wilson, Mark Buehrle and Roy Oswalt.

For more on the Nationals dynamic free agency hunt, visit Federal Baseball.

MLB Free Agent Rumors: Mark Buehrle Meeting With Washington Nationals Monday, According To Report

Representatives for the Washington Nationals are meeting Monday with free-agent pitcher Mark Buehrle in Buehrle's St. Louis home, reports Adam Kilgore of the Washington Post, citing "people with knowledge."

Washington GM Mike Rizzo already met with Buehrle's representatives last week, but Monday's meeting will include the veteran left-hander who, as Kilgore notes, is almost ideally suited to meet the Nationals' needs. Rizzo cited leadership, professionalism, and durability among the qualities he hopes to see in whichever veteran pitcher he signs. Buehrle provides it all in spades, having pitched at least 201 innings in each of his 11 full major-league seasons, in addition to bringing the intangibles Rizzo desires.

Most recently, Buehrle compiled a 13-9 record for the Chicago White Sox, with a 3.59 earned run average in 205.1 innings. Though a three-time Gold Glove winner and four-time All-Star, Buehrle is probably best known for throwing a perfect game against the Tampa Bay Rays in 2009.

If Buehrle is uninterested in joining the Nationals, the team has alternatives when it comes to veteran free-agent starting pitchers, including Roy Oswalt.

MLB Free Agent Rumors: Washington Nationals Interested In Mark Buehrle, Says Report

The Washington Nationals' search for a veteran starting pitcher to anchor their staff has led them to free-agent left-hander Mark Buehrle. According to Adam Kilgore of the Washington Post, Nationals general manager Mike Rizzo will meet with Jeff Berry, Buehrle's agent, before leaving GM meetings.

Buehrle is the third starter to draw Washington's interest, following Roy Oswalt and C.J. Wilson. As Kilgore notes, "it is believed that their top priority is Buehrle."

Buehrle, who will turn 33 during Spring Training, has spent his entire 12-year career with the Chicago White Sox, compiling a 3.83 earned run average and a 161-119 record. He's also earned four All-Star appearances and three Gold Glove awards. He might be most famous for throwing a perfect game against the Tampa Bay Rays in 2009.

Buehrle is a workhorse: in his 11 seasons as a full-time starter, he has never appeared in fewer than 30 games or pitched fewer than 201 innings. In his most recent season, the St. Charles, MO native went 13-9 with a 3.59 ERA in 31 starts.

The Nationals' pitching staff put together a solid 2011 campaign, with a 3.58 ERA, good for No. 6 in the 16-team National League.

For more Nationals coverage, please visit Federal Baseball.

MLB Rumors: Roy Oswalt Still Drawing Interest From Washington Nationals, According To Report

The Washington Nationals continue to express interest in signing 34-year old Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Roy Oswalt to anchor the top of their rotation with Stephen Strasburg and Jordan Zimmermann, according to the latest MLB rumors. The most recent report comes from Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports.

The Nationals plan a major push for free-agent right-hander Roy Oswalt, viewing him as the perfect veteran complement to Stephen Strasburg, Jordan Zimmermann, John Lannan and Chien-Ming Wang, major-league sources said.

The Nationals won't be the only team interested in Oswalt. Rosenthal reports the Texas Rangers could sign him if they lose C.J. Wilson, and there certainly will be other suitors given the down pitcher market.

Oswalt went 9-10 last season with a 3.69 ERA for the Phillies. If the Nationals cannot sign Oswalt, Mark Buehrle of the Chicago White Sox is another potential option.

For more MLB free agent rumors and the Washington Nationals, visit Federal Baseball.

MLB Free Agent Rumors: Yoenis Cespedes Draws Interest From Washington Nationals

We're just a few weeks into the offseason, yet the Washington Nationals continue to make headlines in free agency. The Nationals signed Chien-Ming Wang to a one-year deal last week, are reportedly interested in making a big push for Roy Oswalt, and now, according to reports, are interested in finding their center field of the future in the form of Cuban defector Yoenis Cespedes.

Multiple Nationals talent evaluators, according to a team official, attended a workout Friday in the Dominican Republic that showcased Cespedes, a power-hitting center fielder regarded as the second-best player in Cuba behind third baseman Yulieski Gourriel.

Cespedes, who is reportedly 26, made a splash at the World Baseball Classic in 2009 hitting two home runs and three triples in six games for Cuba. Last season, Cespedes raked all year, hitting 33 HRs and slugging .667 for the season. Very impressive stuff.

So what would prevent the Nationals from acquiring Cespedes? Money, for one. It's believed that the talented CF will command upwards of $30 million on the open market.

The Nationals received only so-so play from their center fields in 2010. Rick Ankiel (106 games), Roger Bernadina (56 games) and Jayson Werth (19 games) all hit under .250 for the year.

For more Nationals offseason news and analysis, stop by Federal Baseball and check in regularly at SB Nation's baseball hub.

MLB Free Agent Rumors: Washington Nationals Interested In Roy Oswalt, According To Report

Mike Rizzo and the Nationals are rumored to be interested in signing free agent Roy Oswalt this winter, according to a report.

MLB Free Agency: Mike Rizzo Discusses Chien-Ming Wang Re-Signing, Other Pitching Options

Washington Nationals general manager Mike Rizzo held a conference call with reporters to announce the team's decision to re-sign Chien-Ming Wang to a one-year contract. Rizzo said that he wanted to give Wang a team option for 2013, but his representatives were not inclined to accept that. Therefore, they both settled on a one-year deal. Via Amanda Comak of the Washington Times.

"(Wang) wants to prove that he's a healthy pitcher and get back in the market and be a free agent as a healthy starter with a full healthy season under his belt," Rizzo said. "I would imagine we would get first run and the best chance of signing him if in fact that situation came about."

Rizzo added that, with the return of Wang and the other young pitchers in the organization, he feels good about the pitching depth. However, he said the team is still looking for another innings-eater. Mark Buehrle of the Chicago White Sox is a name that has popped up a number of times.

For more on the Nationals, visit Federal Baseball.

MLB Free Agency: Chien-Ming Wang Re-Signs With Washington Nationals, According To Multiple Reports

It looks like the Washington Nationals have indeed re-signed Chien-Ming Wang, according to multiple reports by several local media members. The deal is pending a physical, according to Ben Goessling of MASN Sports, who had the news first. Wang will receive a one-year contract, according to reports from several local beat writers. The amount of money Wang will make is still unclear.

UPDATE: Wang will make $4 million, according to Sports Illustrated's Jon Heyman.

Wang has been with the Nationals for two years, but spent most of that time rehabbing reconstructive shoulder surgery. He appeared in 11 games in the second half of last season, going 4-3 with a 4.04 ERA. The Nationals envision him as a back-of-the-rotation starter behind Stephen Strasburg and Jordan Zimmermann. The 31-year old is best known for his work with the New York Yankees, whom he pitched for during the first five years of his MLB career.

For more on Wang and the rest of the Washington Nationals, visit Federal Baseball.

MLB Free Agency: Houston Astros Claim Brian Bixler Off Waivers From Washington Nationals

Brian Bixler, a utility man who shuffled between the Washington Nationals and Triple-A, has been claimed off waivers by the Houston Astros, according to the Nationals' PR staff. Bixler played a key bench role at times for Davey Johnson this season, and he will likely help the Astros in several capacities next season.

Bixler hit just .205 on the season, but his fielding versatility was a help to the Nationals. The team used him as a replacement in the outfield, third base, first base and shortstop this season. He played both corner outfield positions, though he spent most of his time in left field.

The Nationals should still have little trouble finding a replacement for Bixler, who turns 29 next season. Johnson has wanted more bench hitting power anyway, so the loss of Bixler is not a big one there.

For more on Bixler and the Washington Nationals, visit Federal Baseball. 

Chien-Ming Wang Agrees In Principle With Washington Nationals, According To Report

Chien-Ming Wang has agreed in principle to a 1-year deal with the Washington Nationals according to Jon Heyman of Sports Illustrated. It was reported earlier that a deal was close. Heyman tweeted the news a little while ago.

Nats, Wang have agreed in principle on a 1-year deal

Wang spent much of last season with the Washington Nationals, starting 11 games with a 4-3 record and a 4.04 ERA. Wang is expected to be a back end of the rotation type of pitcher that can eat innings and not put the bullpen in the game early. Wang has been with the Nationals organization since 2009. In 2009, Wang spent much of the season on rehabilitation assignments in the minor leagues. The Nationals hope Chien-Ming Wang can remain healthy and give them more of what he did in his 11 starts during the 2010 season.

For more on the Washington Nationals, visit SB Nation's Nationals blog Federal Baseball.

MLB Free Agency: Chien-Ming Wang 'Close' To Re-Siging With Washington Nationals, According To Report

Pitcher Chien-Ming Wang is close to re-signing with the Washington Nationals, according to reports.