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.