MLB Rumors: Washington Nationals Trying To Trade For Aroldis Chapman
The Washington Nationals are without question a team to keep an eye on as the MLB trade deadline draws closer. They know that they need to make a move or two in order to compete for the National League. Perhaps the biggest need for Washington at this point in time is in the bullpen, where they could use a piece or two to bolster their pitching.
Looking at the current trade market, there are a few different bullpen arms that would be ideal additions for the Nationals. One of them would be an especially big pickup for them.
According to a report from Barry Svrluga of The Washington Post, the Nationals are interested in trading for New York Yankees left-handed reliever Aroldis Chapman.
Best Nats trade info: They want in on Chapman. Others very interested. Won't give up Giolito, Turner, Robles, Lopez.
— Barry Svrluga (@barrysvrluga) July 22, 2016
Chapman would be a huge step in the right direction for the Nationals. If they want to represent the National League in the World Series, they are going to have to go up against some lethal offenses. Obviously the offense that comes to mind is the Chicago Cubs.
At 28 years old, Chapman is in the final season of his contract and could be a half-season rental for anyone that ends up picking him up. That would have to be something for the Nationals to consider as well when considering making a move for the lefty.
Washington is currently in first place in the NL East and well on their way to a playoff appearance. Many believe that the Cubs and Nationals will face off in the NLCS when everything is said and done. If that was indeed the matchup, it would make for one of the most hard-fought NLCS series’ in recent history.
There is no question that the Nationals’ offense is good enough to get them a shot at a World Series, but adding more pitching is key for every team hoping to make a run at a championship.
While the Nationals certainly have a shot at acquiring Chapman, there are going to be a lot of teams that will try to get him. Even the Cubs have major interest in Chapman, as reported by Jerry Crasnick of ESPN. Washington will need to be very aggressive in their pursuit of Chapman if they want to bring him on board.
#SFGiants also scouting #Brewers Will Smith and Jeremy Jeffress. Lingering on Miller-Chapman, but might be outgunned by #Cubs, #Nationals.
— Jerry Crasnick (@jcrasnick) July 20, 2016
New York still hasn’t decided fully whether they are going to be sellers at the deadline. They are still within striking distance of the Wild Card slot, although it would take a lot of help. If they trade Chapman, they would be admitting that their season is practically over.
It will be interesting to see what the trade deadline holds to say the least. There is the potential for a couple major deals that could change the outlook of the season. Washington could get involved in one of those deals if they find a deal for Chapman that they like.
Expect to hear Chapman’s name mentioned a lot as the deadline creeps up on us. More teams will come calling, although the Nationals are currently expected to be one of the most aggressive in trade talks. Washington will be linked to quite a few other players as well, so keep your eyes and ears open.
Do you think the Washington Nationals should do whatever it takes to acquire Aroldis Chapman? How would he impact the Nationals’ World Series chances? Let us know your thoughts in the comment box below!
[AP Foto/Adam Hunger]
