Since Washington Nationals pitcher John Lannan was demoted to the AAA Syracuse Chiefs after spring training, the popular belief was that the Nationals were going to trade him to a team that was looking for a No. 5 pitcher. Unfortunately, a weak start in Syracuse has cooled interest in the one-time Nationals ace.
Lannan is currently 2-3 with a 6.10 ERA in six starts for the Chiefs. He's pitched a total of 31 innings, has struck out 17 batters to 13 walks, and has allowed 40 hits overall, including three home runs. With his weak start, along with his $5 million per-year contract, teams are not as willing to trade for someone who has been as inconsistent through his career as he has. Though the Nationals have tried to dangle him out there for teams such as the Boston Red Sox and the Minnesota Twins according to CBS Sports' Danny Knobler, there have been few nibbles.
There could be more interest for pitcher Chien-Ming Wang, who gave up two runs over seven innings in a rehab start for the Chiefs on Wednesday. His contract is similar to Lannan's, as Wang makes $4 million per year. The Nationals are trying to make something happen in the trade market for these two players, but they will only part with them if the price is right.
For the latest on this story, stay tuned to SB Nation DC and this Storystream. For the latest on the Nationals, visit Federal Baseball. For the latest news and notes from around the major leagues, visit Baseball Nation.