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MLB Trade Rumors: 5 veterans who are prime trade candidates

By Rucker Haringey

Sep 6, 2016; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Twins second baseman Brian Dozier (2) hits a home run in the first inning against the Kansas City Royals at Target Field. Mandatory Credit: Brad Rempel-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 6, 2016; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Twins second baseman Brian Dozier (2) hits a home run in the first inning against the Kansas City Royals at Target Field. Mandatory Credit: Brad Rempel-USA TODAY Sports /
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SAN FRANCISCO, CA – APRIL 23: Gio Gonzalez
SAN FRANCISCO, CA – APRIL 23: Gio Gonzalez /

Washington Nationals. Gio Gonzalez. 5. player. 90. . SP

The Nationals entered the season with high expectations, but are certainly struggling at the moment. No one in Washington is happy to be fourth in the NL East with a sub-par record of 12-16.

They aren’t out of the race yet, but dealing Gio Gonzalez would still be a clever move by the front office. At the moment, he’s still a very effective starting pitcher for the club. Unfortunately, at 32 years of age his decline is almost certainly right around the corner.

Factor in his impending free agency and it’s easy see why the Nationals should at least listen to offers for the talented lefty. Gonzalez is going to want a big contract this summer. The Nationals have the financial payroll to accommodate him but it would prove to be a bad investment. Paying a 32-year-old pitcher based on his past performance is never a good idea.

That’s why the Nationals need to pivot and get out ahead of this one. Dealing Gonzalez now would give the team a chance to recoup several high-quality prospects in return. This might be their last opportunity to get anything of real value before Gonzalez requires an onerous contract in free agency.

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