Nationals appear destined to be sellers after being swept by Orioles

The Washington Nationals are historically stubborn during the trade deadline. The club under GM Mike Rizzo simply doesn’t sell this time of year. Hard to argue why, when their 2019 World Series title run began after a 19-31 start.

However, this season may be different. Even in an NL East division that remains up for grabs, Rizzo and the Nationals may not be able to avoid the inevitable. With a depleted farm system, aging roster, and struggling prospects, the Nationals needed to knock it out of the park this past week to keep from a fire sale ahead of Friday’s trade deadline.

Unfortunately, they did just the opposite. Sunday, Ryan McKenna beat out a throw from Carter Kieboom at home to give the Baltimore Orioles a walk-off win, 5-4, completing a three-game sweep of the fading Nationals.

Being swept by the second-worst team in MLB is bad enough. But, the three straight losses to Baltimore put the Nationals eight games behind the first-place New York Mets in the NL East. Washington is also 11 games back in the NL wild card race. With just four games remaining before the trade deadline, it’s apparent the time is now for them to be sellers.

Mentioned a few days ago I thought the Nationals would have to completely crater this week for Mike Rizzo to be convinced he needs to sell. Well, the comet has broken through the atmosphere and everyone's just bracing for impact now.

— Mark Zuckerman (@MarkZuckerman) July 25, 2021

Nationals, in decision mode, were just swept by the Orioles with less than a week before the deadline. Hope Mike Rizzo charged his phone this afternoon.

— Chelsea Janes (@chelsea_janes) July 25, 2021

Trade rumors have swirled around about their players. The Nationals have reportedly discussed starting pitcher Max Scherzer in trade talks. Scherzer was scratched late ahead Saturday’s start due to a triceps injury that sparked speculation his trade is imminent.

Another report suggests the Toronto Blue Jays have inquired about Nationals relievers Brad Hand and Daniel Hudson.

Additionally, Kyle Schwarber, Josh Harrison, Yan Gomes and Ryan Zimmerman are their most notable free agents-to-be. It’s unclear what kind of market each would bring. But Rizzo is sure to explore what it may be.

Dave Martinez: "This is a tough time of year for players, I can tell ya. Everybody's worried about getting traded, everybody's hearing rumors. We need to focus on staying present….and focus on winning one game at a time, and go out and do your best to win for the Nats."

— Maria Torres (@maria_torres3) July 25, 2021

Not to mention, there are concerns over two struggling prospects Victor Robles and Kieboom. There’s a lot for the Nationals to consider before Friday.

They have to restock their farm system. They also need to focus on building around their budding stars Juan Soto and Trea Turner. Certainly, a stellar GM like Rizzo isn’t going to just take any deal. There will need to be quality in returns offered. With that said, there will be some anxious eyes on the Nationals this week.