The Nationals made a big free agent splash by signing Jayson Werth to a lengthy, and very hefty, seven-year $126 million contract. He figures to be a big part of their lineup, and one of the corner outfielders, for a few years to come. But what does that mean for one of their corner outfielders from last year, Josh Willingham, who had proved to be one of their most productive players when healthy?
According to Bill Ladson of WashingtonNationals.com, the team has placed Willingham on the trading block in hopes to upgrade another position of need before the 2011 season begins.
The Nationals would like to get something in return for Willingham, who becomes a free agent after the '11 season. Rizzo already announced that the team is going on a year-to-year basis with Willingham.
With Werth in the fold and Bryce Harper waiting in the wings, there isn't really a spot for Willingham in the Nationals future. So I guess it makes sense to trade him if they can get value in return. Ladson continues on to say something a little bit surprising.
Another source went so far as to say that every healthy player on the Nationals' roster, with the exception of Ryan Zimmerman and Jayson Werth, are being considered for trade discussions.
The Nationals are serious about upgrading their roster and it appears that they would be willing to sacrifice some of the people currently on their roster to make it happen. But again, if it's a trade that puts them in the right direction, then I think it's a good move. We'll update Willingham's status as soon as more information becomes available.
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