The deadline to non-tender players has passed, expanding the pool of free agents for the 2021 season. In this week's Inbox, we look at potential free-agent options and then switch gears to the all-important topic of musical playlists.
What do you think of my lineup wish list for 2021?
-- @natsone, via Twitter
The lineup from @natsone included Eddie Rosario in left field, an intriguing outfield option who became available in free agency after being non-tendered by the Twins on Wednesday.
One note to keep in mind when considering possible outfielders is that the Nationals took a look at left fielder Juan Soto in right at the end of the 2020 season, so there could be flexibility with defensive positions as they build their roster for ‘21.
Rosario, 29, slashed .257/.316/.476 over 57 games in his sixth season. The lefty batter posted a .792 OPS, 54 hits, 13 home runs, 42 RBIs and 31 runs scored. He also had a .978 fielding percentage and ranked fourth in the American League with five outfield assists.
What are the chances of the Nats pursuing Yadier Molina?
-- @pablotoro623, via Twitter
The Nationals have a spot to fill behind the plate with Kurt Suzuki becoming a free agent, and Molina would follow the trend of pairing Yan Gomes with another veteran catcher. Molina, who turns 39 in July, is entering his 18th Major League season. The nine-time All-Star slashed .262/.303/.359 with a .662 OPS and four home runs over 42 games in 2020.
Molina has spent his entire career with St. Louis, and he still could return there for 2021. One factor to consider is, what are the chances of Molina leaving the only team he has played for? Cardinals beat reporter Anne Rogers recently wrote, “While the Molina-Cardinals interest is mutual, and Molina’s representation has stayed in contact with the front office over the past few weeks, the veteran catcher would also like to explore his market outside of St. Louis.”
Molina certainly would give the Nats proven experience behind the plate -- he has 2,025 games on his resume. There is a chance, too, they could choose to develop their own talent next season. Tres Barrera, the Nationals’ No. 19 prospect per MLB Pipeline, is an option to platoon duties with Gomes if they do not acquire another catcher in the trade/free agent market.
Which player (probably) has the best #WrappedSpotify list?
-- @LONTDC1, via Twitter
Aníbal Sánchez often plays the role of DJ and his selections were spot on. During Summer Camp, he would choose the songs for workouts and sim games, and I must admit -- I’d often find myself singing along. (Luckily, my mask prevented my colleagues in the press box from hearing my musical “talents.”)
Since Sánchez is a free agent, Luis García is a candidate for 2021 should Sánchez not return to the Nationals next season. The rookie showed off some of his high-energy dance moves this year, which leads me to think his playlist could be a strong listen.