The Washington Nationals are rebuilding with plans and hopes of building a contender around 23-year old superstar Juan Soto. But, the team has struggled a bit more than expected.
Their 26 losses this season is currently tied with the CIncinnati Reds for most in MLB. While names like Nelson Cruz, Josh Bell and Cesar Hernandez could be moved by the Aug. 2 trade deadline.
However, some MLB executives believe the Nationals could move Soto this summer, according to ESPN’s Buster Olney.
At 23 years old, Soto is already a superstar, and there aren’t any comparable examples of hitters of his stature being dealt at such a young age. But rival execs say the Nationals might well be compelled — and motivated — to move Soto this summer.
Olney went on to mention the San Diego Padres and Toronto Blue Jays are two possible candidates to trade for Soto.
On the surface it’s unthinkable for the Nationals to trade a young stud such as Soto. Some believe he is well on his way to becoming the face of baseball. But, there are factors that actually make such a move realistic.
This offseason, Soto turned down a $350 million extension offer from the Nationals. He is represented by super-agent Scott Boras. There is belief that Boras is shooting to make Soto MLB’s first $500 million player.
The Nationals are struggling and at 12-26 are on the path to 100+ losses. Soto’s number isn’t moving, not with Boras as his agent. Additionally, the Nationals are exploring their ownership options including possibly selling the team.
There is also precedent, as the Nationals traded their young franchise shortstop, Trea Turner, last deadline because they couldn’t reach a long-term deal. As the season plays along, it could go a long way into whether or not the Nationals do the unfathomable by trading Soto.
