House That Hank Built
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Atlanta Braves find the NL East making major updates around them

By Alan Carpenter

SAN DIEGO, CA - AUGUST 10: Gabe Kapler #22 of the Philadelphia Phillies looks on before a baseball game against the San Diego Padres at PETCO Park on August 10, 2018 in San Diego, California. (Photo by Denis Poroy/Getty Images)
SAN DIEGO, CA - AUGUST 10: Gabe Kapler #22 of the Philadelphia Phillies looks on before a baseball game against the San Diego Padres at PETCO Park on August 10, 2018 in San Diego, California. (Photo by Denis Poroy/Getty Images) /
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WASHINGTON, DC – APRIL 09: General manager Mike Rizzo looks on during batting practice before a baseball game against the Atlanta Braves at Nationals Park on April 9, 2018 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Mitchell Layton/Getty Images)
WASHINGTON, DC – APRIL 09: General manager Mike Rizzo looks on during batting practice before a baseball game against the Atlanta Braves at Nationals Park on April 9, 2018 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Mitchell Layton/Getty Images) /

Washington Nationals

The Nats have already done two things:

  • Given up on any thoughts about Realmuto for themselves; and
  • Opted for the ‘if we can’t beat ’em, join em’ approach for catching
  • They also signed up a bullpen upgrade

Like the Braves did in 2017-18, the Nats have done for 2019:  they now have a worthy catching tandem of their own in Kurt Suzuki and Yan Gomes.

These players will definitely serve to significantly improve the offensive production that they have been getting as of late… indeed the upgrade could the best they’ve enjoyed since the departure of Wilson Ramos after 2016.

But after losing Bryce Harper – and yes, I think they’ve definitely lost him even though others disagree – and Daniel Murphy, the Nationals are still a lesser offensive force than before.  However, they know this themselves, and it’s still likely that there will be more upgrades coming.

While Anthony Rendon could end up with an extension deal, that won’t change the offense.

The Nationals auditioned Patrick Corbin (or maybe the other way ’round) last week, but I’d have to guess that they are 3rd on the list of 3 current finalists for his services… but I do anticipate that they will add a starting pitcher somewhere along the way.

Early on they signed Trevor Rosenthal with the hopes that his rehab period is over.  A showcase event in October suggested that this might be so.

Remaining Needs:  outfielder, pitching, second base

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