Washington Nationals: What's Left on the To-Do List - 3B & Starting Pitcher

Editors Note: In the original email version of this article, I mistakenly suggested that the Nationals should trade for Garrett Crochet. Crochet was traded to the Boston Red Sox in December. I apologize for this error. I have since added an updated recommendation to reflect the Crochet trade.

As the calendar flips to 2025, the Washington Nationals are gearing up for Spring Training in West Palm Beach, Florida. While they've made some notable moves, two key priorities remain: securing a starting third baseman and adding another starting pitcher to their rotation.

This offseason, the team has taken significant steps to address critical needs, notably securing a starting first baseman and filling the designated hitter role. These moves have strengthened the lineup and provide a solid foundation for the upcoming season. However, there this still a lot of work that needs to be done before the end of the off-season.

Acquisition of Nathaniel Lowe: The Nationals traded for first baseman Nathaniel Lowe from the Texas Rangers, acquiring a Gold Glove and Silver Slugger winner with a strong offensive profile. Lowe brings stability to the position, hitting .361 OBP and .762 OPS in 2024 with impressive plate discipline (12.6% walk rate). This cost-effective trade provides the Nationals with a veteran presence, a strong bat, and a winning track record, allowing the team to pursue other upgrades, potentially through free agency or trades.

Signing of Michael Soroka: The team signed right-handed pitcher Michael Soroka, who can contribute as both a starter and reliever, adding depth to the pitching staff. Michael Soroka pitched to a 4.74 ERA with 84 strikeouts in 79.2 innings pitched in 25 games (nine starts) for the Chicago White Sox in 2024. He opened the season in Chicago’s rotation before moving to the bullpen in mid-May. The Nationals hope Soroka will be placed into the starting pitching rotation, but if needed, he can provide valuable relief innings with his impressive 15.00 strikeouts per 9.0 innings (60 SO/36.0 IP) and 2.75 ERA in relief appearances.

Re-signing of Josh Bell: The Nationals brought back former first baseman Josh Bell, adding a veteran bat to the lineup. Bell hit .249/.319/.405 with 19 home runs and 44 extra-base hits between Miami and Arizona last season. The 32-year-old slugger has four seasons with 20 or more home runs, culminating in a career-high 37 long balls in 2019.

Re-signing of Trevor Williams: The team re-signed right-handed pitcher Trevor Williams to a two-year deal, providing stability and experience to the starting rotation. Williams, 32, returns to the Nationals after going 6–1 with a 2.03 ERA, 59 strikeouts, and 18 walks in 13 starts in 2024. He allowed just three home runs in 66.2 innings pitched and held opposing batters to a .214 batting average. His career-best 2.03 ERA was the lowest in a season in Nationals history (2005-pres.) by a pitcher with at least 10 starts. Williams was particularly strong at home, going 3–0 with a 1.37 ERA (4 ER/26.1 IP), 30 strikeouts, and four walks in five starts at Nationals Park.

To-Do Item #1: Acquire a Starting Pitcher

The Nationals need to prioritize signing a proven starting pitcher to lead their rotation. While Soroka and Williams are valuable additions, a veteran presence is crucial for the development of young pitching talent.

Ideal Option: Signing of RHP Jack Flaherty

Jack Flaherty is considered the top available starter, finishing the 2024 season with a 13-7 record, an ERA of 3.17, and 194 strikeouts in 162.0 innings pitched. However, his projected $80 million contract may be a significant investment.

Realistic Options: Trades & Second and Third Tier Free Agents

Trade for Sunny Gray. The Washington Nationals could benefit significantly from acquiring veteran starting pitcher Sonny Gray from the St. Louis Cardinals.

Gray boasts a strong track record of success in recent years, showcasing consistent strikeout numbers and strong underlying metrics despite a slight uptick in his ERA in 2024. As a seasoned veteran, Gray would bring invaluable leadership and experience to a young Nationals pitching staff. His presence could have a positive influence on the development of younger pitchers within the organization.

Even if Gray doesn't remain with the Nationals long-term, he represents a valuable trade asset. Contending teams could be interested in acquiring a starting pitcher with his experience and proven track record, potentially netting the Nationals valuable prospects in a future trade.

Gray's age and contract are valid concerns. However, his recent performance suggests he can still be an effective pitcher, and the Nationals could explore creative ways to manage his contract, potentially looking for a team to take on a portion of his salary. Gray's injury history is a factor to consider. However, the Nationals can mitigate this risk by acquiring depth within their starting rotation and bullpen.

Acquiring Sonny Gray could be a shrewd move for the Washington Nationals. He provides immediate pitching depth, brings valuable veteran leadership, and could be a valuable trade asset as the team continues its rebuild. While his age and contract require careful consideration, the potential rewards outweigh the risks for a team looking to accelerate its rebuild.

Reunion with Erick Fedde: A potential reunion with former National Erick Fedde, currently with the St. Louis Cardinals, could be considered. Fedde has had a couple of bounce-back years after leaving the Nationals and could easily fit into a third or fourth spot in the rotation and provide the young talent with leadership and experience.

Free Agents: Second-tier free agents like Lance Lynn or Cal Quantrill could be viable options.

Potential Re-signing (Less Likely): A reunion with Max Scherzer, at 40, is possible but less likely.

To-Do Item #2: Address Third Base

The Nationals have several options to fill the third base position:

Internal Options: Relying on internal options like Trey Lipscomb and José Tena could be a temporary solution while top prospect Brady House continues his development.

Trade Options: Exploring trades for players like Eugenio Suárez from the Arizona Diamondbacks could be a more aggressive approach, but it would likely require significant prospect capital. Suárez had an impressive season last year, with a batting average of .256, 30 homeruns, 101 RBI, and 571 at-bats.

The Nationals might have to part with many blue-chip young prospects to make the deal happen with the Diamondbacks. Still, with Jordan Lawlar, the No. 6 pick in the 2021 draft, being nearly MLB-ready, the D-Backs might be willing to lower the asking price to promote Lawlar immediately.

Free Agent Options: The Nationals' reported interest in Gleyber Torres suggests they are open to exploring the free-agent market for a third baseman. While Alex Bregman is a potential target, the attached qualifying offer could deter the Nationals from pursuing him, especially considering his age (30) and the potential loss of a valuable draft pick.

The Washington Nationals have made some interesting strides this offseason, but addressing the starting pitching and third base positions remains crucial for their success in 2025. Whether through free agency, trades, or internal development, the team must make strategic decisions to build a competitive roster and contend for a playoff spot.