The Washington Nationals had seven arbitration-eligible players ahead of Tuesday’s deadline. Only outfielder Victor Robles was unable to reach an agreement with the Nats as the deadline passed.
Washington agreed to one-year deals with Juan Soto ($17.1M), Josh Bell ($10M), pitchers Joe Ross ($2.4M), Erick Fedde ($2.15M), Austin Voth ($875k) and Tanner Rainey (TBD).
Victor Robles filed for $2.1 million. The Nationals countered and filed for $1.6 million, according to MLB Network’s Joel Sherman. The difference of $500,000 could lead to the two sides going to an arbitration hearing. This is the first year Robles is eligible for arbitration.
Both sides can continue negotiations even after Tuesday’s deadline. If the two cannot come to an agreement, they’ll have a hearing sometime in April.
Playing in his third season last year, Robles struggled through 107 games, hitting .203/.310/.295 with two home runs and 19 RBIs. He was unable to secure the lead-off spot in the lineup. He ultimately was replaced by Lance Thomas in center-field and sent down to the minors.
Set to turn 25 in May, Robles will be seeking to reclaim the role of starting center fielder.
