The baseball world’s eyes are already focused on the Washington Nationals to see what they will do ahead of Friday’s MLB trade deadline. Now, we have another reason to look extensively at the Nats.
According to Peter Gammons of MLB Network, it doesn’t look like Nationals ownership is willing to give star shortstop Trea Turner a long-term deal.
Turner has been a stalwart for the Nationals. The 28-year old appeared to be a cornerstone player alongside the 22-year old Juan Soto. However, talks on a contract extension have seemingly stalled. Turner declined to sign an extension this past spring, according to The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal. Thus making the situation even more sticky.
Turner is under team control through the 2022 season. There were hopes he and the team could’ve had something in place long-term. Yet, as time passes and inches closer to the Winter 2022, concerns of Nationals’ past are growing.
The Lerners, who own the Nationals, have had a history of letting homegrown hitters walk in free agency. Bryce Harper in 2018 sticks out. After contract talks dropped off, Harper signed a mega deal with NL East rivals, the Philadelphia Phillies.
Things worked out for the Nationals, who went on to win the World Series the following season. However, the team was unable to hammer out a long-term deal with Anthony Rendon, who walked to the Los Angeles Angels.
Trea Turner is having another stellar year this season. He made his first All-Star Game, hitting .319/.367/.521 with 18 home runs and 49 RBIs.
Earlier this month, the Nationals drafted high school shortstop Brady House in the first round of the MLB Draft. The Nationals still have yet to sign him and it may take some time for the 18-year old to be ready. Still, it’s hard not to wonder if his addition is another telling sign of what is to come with Turner?
