Wire Taps: Where was Joaquin Benoit?; Revisiting preseason predictions; Nationals’ prospect updates...

Today, in Wire Taps, we finally answer the most important question of the year: where was Joaquin Benoit?

Here’s the news:

Why Joaquin Benoit never threw a pitch for the Nationals (MASN)
As it turns out, it wasn't forearm troubles — it was a shoulder issue, and it cost the Nats $1 million in luxury tax money they could have left unspent.

Revisiting those opening day media predictions (MASN)
Nobody predicted the All-Stars, though most people got the attendance about right, and Byron Kerr got Bryce Harper's homer total right, while Todd Dybas essentially figured out Trea Turner's stolen base numbers. (Also, it's depressing to see how early people thought Daniel Murphy would return and how many games the Nationals would win.)

Mason Denaburg prospect profile (2080 Baseball)
Denaburg has no mechanical red flags, pitches in the 90-94 range, and has an upside of a #3 or #4 starter.

Five biggest storylines for the 2018/19 offseason (District on Deck)
Where's Bryce going, and who will the Nats sign or trade for to reinforce their starting pitching?

Offseason Update: Oct. 6, 2018 — Antuna’s TJ surgery (NationalsProspects)
Luis Garcia made the top-20 list for the Sally League, while Yasel Antuna may have undergone Tommy John surgery.

Latest on Mets GM search: Levine, Cherington decline interviews; four candidates known - (CBSSports.com)
"De Jon Watson -- a special assistant with the Washington Nationals who used to be a hot GM candidate during his time running player development with the Los Angeles Dodgers."

Introducing Washington Nationals RHP Kyle McGowin - (NatsGM)
"McGowin is a wiry 6’3” 195lbs with long limbs he uses to get excellent extension toward home plate."