Nationals showing interest in free agent pitcher Zack Greinke

The Washington Nationals are showing preliminary interest in free agent pitcher Zack Greinke, according to a report from CBS Sports' Jon Heyman.

The Nats have tried to acquire Greinke multiple times in the past, and while their attempts proved unsuccessful, they posses the money that will be required to lure the 29-year-old pitcher to town. The Angels and Rangers are the two other teams to show interest this offseason.

The biggest concern with Greinke will be the paycheck he will command. Most experts believe he will become baseball's highest-paid right-handed pitcher, and a deal worth $25 million annually over the course of the next six or seven years seems likely. Washington could elect to sign Greinke to help bolster the rotation along with Stephen Strasburg and Gio Gonzalez, giving the club the best staff in baseball.

At the same time, adding Greinke and his salary would likely eat up all the money Rizzo has to work with this offseason. The team would not be able to sign a free agent outfielder to roam center field, nor would they be able to add depth to their bench or bullpen.

Look for the rumors to really pick up once the Winter Meetings begin next week.