I'm not sure this is the front of the rotation starter that fans might have envisioned heading into the offseason, but the Nats are apparently one of the front runners for a pitcher who had a lot of success last year.

According to Craig Calcaterra of Hardball Talk, the Nationals and the Brewers are in the lead to sign former Twin Carl Pavano.

After a disastrous four years with the Yankees, Pavano has somewhat resurrected his career over the past two years with the Cleveland Indians and the Minnesota Twins. Last year, Pavano was an innings horse for the Twins. He went 17-11 with a 3.75 era over 221 innings, including seven complete games.

Pavano is 34 years old, so he isn't really a "part of the future" type guy. But he can be a good step for the Nats over the next few years and hold down the fort until the chosen one returns.