5 offseason moves to help the Nationals repeat as champions

HOUSTON, TEXAS - OCTOBER 30: The Washington Nationals pose for a team photo as they celebrate after defeating the Houston Astros in Game Seven to win the 2019 World Series at Minute Maid Park on October 30, 2019 in Houston, Texas. The Washington Nationals defeated the Houston Astros with a score of 6 to 2. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images) /

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WASHINGTON, DC – OCTOBER 25: Anthony Rendon #6 of the Washington Nationals reacts after flying out against the Houston Astros during the ninth inning in Game Three of the 2019 World Series at Nationals Park on October 25, 2019 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images) /

1. Re-sign Anthony Rendon

The Nationals were able to shrug off the loss of Bryce Harper because they still had two legit superstars in Anthony Rendon and Juan Soto. It won’t be so easy to do the same next season if they are not able to re-sign Rendon who gets his chance to test free agency. The 29-year-old third baseman won’t be cheap, but the Nationals cannot afford to lose him. There also very few options to replace his production in this year’s free-agent class or in Washington’s farm system.

Keeping Rendon in Washington has to be Mike Rizzo’s top priority this offseason. The Nationals could absorb a loss of Stephen Strasburg if he signs elsewhere. Rendon’s loss would be felt by everyone in the lineup. Soto does have the ability to carry an entire offense, but he needs help and protection. Rendon has also been better than Harper for three years running and led the major leagues in RBI this year while hitting .319/.412/.598 with 81 extra-base hits.

Washington attempted to engage Rendon in extension talks throughout the season but made little traction towards a deal. At the very least, both sides have a bit of an idea where they stand heading into offseason negotiations. Rendon’s camp seemed much more willing to talk than Harper’s. A seven-year, $210-million offer is a good place to start. The Nats will definitely re-sign at least one of their star free agents, with Rendon the higher priority.

Superagent Scott Boras might try and point to Nolan Arenado’s seven-year, $260-million deal with Colorado, but the Rockies third baseman is a full year younger than Rendon and has played over 155 games the last five years and plays superior defense. If the Nats are willing to meet somewhere in the middle of their original offer of $210 million and Arenado’s $260 million, they may be able to hammer out a deal.

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