MLB Trade Deadline: 5 moves Washington Nationals should make

4. Peter Bourjos

The Phillies and Nats worked an inter-divisional deal a year ago to bring Papelbon aboard, and a year later there is another match between the two clubs that could benefit the Nats’ late season offering. Bourjos got off to a slow start after joining the Phillies this winter after spending his previous three years with the Cardinals, but in the last month has begun to show why he was such an exciting option for the Anaheim Angels at the beginning of his career.

Since June 1, the 29-year-old has hit .341 after getting off to an abysmal .197/.228/.290 split start over his first two months. While Bourjos wouldn’t provide a solution as a leadoff option, he could improve the club’s depth throughout the outfield and greatly improve their defensive offering as well. What is more is that he would not come at a prohibitive prospect cost either, as the Phillies are fine with adding bits and pieces that are projectable throughout their continued rebuilding effort.

The Nationals have to improve their outfield situation up the middle, and while Bourjos is not a “one and done” level acquisition that will change the club’s future, he is a strong and experienced depth addition that would fit into an immediate need for the club.

Next: Aroldis Chapman