It’s the Friday before the start of the Winter Meetings. Surely Washington’s Nationals have something Hot Stove-y going... right? We’re very patient people, but relievers, in the last 24 hours, have started to sign (and to some big $) so let’s get cracking in the Nationals’ front office. Time to fill some roster needs, then shock the baseball world when everyone gathers in Lake Buena Vista, FL for this year’s edition of the Winter Meetings. While you wait for the big news (no guarantee there will be any), catch up on the last 24 hours in Nationals links...
NATS BEAT:
Dave Martinez brings new, Maddon-esque vibe to Washington
Dave Martinez didn't have any aspirations to coach when Joe Maddon called him in for help in 2006. Flash forward to 2017, when he's convinced the Nats that he can bring a relaxed atmosphere to a stingy veteran club.
UVA selects Zimmerman, Doolittle for inaugural class of Hall of Fame
The University of Virginia is one of the country's most prestigious academic and baseball institutions, so this isn't a small deal for the duo.
Waiting, waiting, waiting
Typically, *something* happens before the Winter Meetings. This year -- not so much, maybe because the Winter Meetings started later than they have since 2013.
Stanton will not accept trade to St. Louis or San Francisco
Stanton, however, would be willing to go to the Yankees, Dodgers, Cubs, or Astros. THE RICH GET RICHER. COME TO WASHINGTON, GIANCARLO.
Nationals face tough trade dilemma with Taylor
"There was no more improved player on the Nationals roster in 2017 than Taylor, and that includes Ryan Zimmerman..."
NATIONAL(S) BEAT:
Here Are the Complete Front-Office Ratings
"There’s no real perfect way to evaluate a front office. Never has been. FanGraphs tried to do it before, by gathering input from a bunch of its own writers, but that was eventually put to a stop, because it was too controversial."
Fantasy baseball: Impact of Dee Gordon trade to Mariners
"Daniel Murphy of the Washington Nationals is the position's clear leader, but after that ... DJ LeMahieu? Ian Happ? Ozzie Albies? Or maybe postseason hero Chris Taylor?"
Q&A: Andre Dawson on Marlins split, PED users, Ohtani, Expos
“Sportsnet: Now that you’ve parted ways with the Marlins what’s next for you in baseball? Dawson: I think I’m going to assume a position with the Chicago Cubs.”
NL EAST UPDATES:
Noah Syndergaard: Matt Harvey and I will bounce back
"The Mets are hoping the addition of new manager Mickey Callaway and pitching coach Dave Eiland can help a once fearsome rotation return to dominance."
The Upshot Of The Braves Penalties
"The Atlanta Braves are in good position now with experienced and respected Alex Anthopoulos as GM..."
Phillies remove two from 40-man roster
"The Phillies cleared two spots on their 40-man roster to provide some flexibility ahead of next week’s Winter Meetings."
Law: Did Marlins get more than salary relief from the Gordon trade?
"When I heard someone with New York ties was running the Marlins, I didn't realize it was going to be Crazy Eddie, but it appears that everything the Marlins have must go and the prices are going to be insane."