The biggest hole on the Nationals’ roster right now is at third base. It feels like it’s been like that ever since Anthony Rendon left. Fortunately, Alex Bregman, the best third baseman ever in free agency, is still on the market. Mark Lerner and Mike Rizzo should jump at the chance to land an All-Star third baseman. However, based on their actions this offseason, it seems unlikely that the owners will agree to a deal worth more than $10 million per year.
Bregman will bring elite defense, a solid bat and much-needed leadership to the locker room. In a meeting with the Tigers Stopthe Nationals could jump in and acquire him early in the offseason at a price that looks like a steal.
Bregman has not reached the heights of 2019 in recent years, but Perennial 4.5 win player. He was a Gold Glove third baseman and his bat is still very good. Bregman’s career-low .768 OPS was dragged down by an abysmal start where he was rumored to be playing through an injury. His second half OPS of .834 is pretty close to what the actual player is.
Concerns have also been raised regarding Brady House, who is seen as Washington, D.C.’s third baseman of the future. House’s pursuit rate in Triple-A was a staggering 43%, which was the third-worst in the major leagues. Triple-A pitchers have exposed this swing-happy approach, and it will be a big problem for major league pitchers. But he’s young enough and good enough to be a solid trade chip in the minor leagues.
The Nationals have tried younger, cheaper options at third base for years, but they just never worked. Going out and grabbing a guy you know is a stud should at least be on the table.
Another advantage for Bregman is that the Nationals own the No. 1 pick in the 2025 draft. Ethan Holiday is considered a top draft prospect and plays third base. Signing Bregman to a four-year deal would be the perfect bridge to Holiday. That way, Holiday will be able to grow at her own pace. Bregman also has the profile to play as a second baseman. If Holiday is ready by the end of Bregman’s contract, they could move Bregman to second place, the position he is in. open For fun.
The Nationals need more certainty in their lineup. There are many possibilities, but not many are guaranteed. Bregman not only provides a veteran presence, but also that certainty. I have no doubt that Ted Lerner will talk to Scott Boras and ask him about Bregman. It’s far more uncertain whether Mark Lerner intends to do the same. There is an arms race in the National League and the Nationals need to start stepping up.