Wire Taps: Washington Nationals’ biggest ?s for 2020; Sean Doolittle delivers message to D.C. + more Nats links...

“When we first started there were so many uncertainties,” manager Davey Martinez said this past Sunday, after the Washington Nationals’ 2020 campaign came to an end.

“It was crazy. The play, the stoppage, the four games that we had to miss. The meetings about not wanting to go to Miami. I mean, you name it. There were a lot of different struggles for us this year, but you know, we got through it, and I have a much better appreciation for MLB and what they’ve done and how they went through this.

“The protocols were great. They did everything right. For the most part everybody stayed healthy, and you will see playoffs this year and a World Series. So good for them.”

We’re pulling for A’s vs Padres or A’s vs Marlins. Go read your links...

NATS BEAT:

Obi-Sean thanks Nats fans in heartfelt tweet - (MLB.com)
"'DC will always hold a special place in our hearts,' Doolittle wrote. 'We got married here in 2017. We immersed ourselves in the District. We fell in love with the city.'"

Sean Doolittle thanks Nationals fans, addresses uncertain future with team - (NBC Sports Washington)
"Over three-plus seasons with Washington, Doolittle tallied 75 saves, 163 strikeouts, one All-Star appearance and, of course, a World Series title."

First base is Nationals’ strangest offseason situation - (NBC Sports Washington)
"Howie Kendrick, 37, may retire. He shares a mutual contract option with the team. Ryan Zimmerman, 36, may retire."

Biggest questions facing Nats this offseason - (MLB.com)
"So what does this mean for the 32-year-old as he prepares for his 12th season? The Nats are anticipating a healthy Strasburg to be ready for 2021."

Revisiting our 2020 season predictions - (MASN)
"In keeping with tradition, we’re republishing our predictions now that the season is over. Hey, it’s only fair that we’re accountable for our mistakes, right?"

NATIONAL(S) BEAT:

VIDEO: Washington Nationals and World Central Kitchen distribute over 900,000 meals to the D.C. community | by Nationals Communications - (Curly W Live)
"As you may have heard, since early April, the Nationals have partnered with Chef José Andrés’ World Central Kitchen by offering up Nationals Park as a cooking/distribution site for free meals to community members in need."

Jose Andres, Ryan Zimmerman among headliners in this year’s virtual Capital Food Fight - (WTOP)
"This year’s participants include celebrity chef Jose Andres, restauranteur Spike Mendelsohn, Top Chef contestant Eric Adjepong, Washington Nationals star Ryan Zimmerman, D.C. chef Ris Lacoste and other nationally recognized chefs who will participate in the live event remotely."

NL EAST UPDATES:

Didi Gregorius loved his time with Phillies. Soon he’ll be a free agent - (Philadelphia Inquirer)
"The Phillies' first offseason priority is re-signing J.T. Realmuto, but re-signing Gregorius should be No. 2. It’s hard to argue that the Phillies are a better team without Gregorius."

Steve Cohen buying the Mets means the end of coronavirus pay cuts for team employees - (nj.com)
"Mets fans are excited about Steve Cohen buying the franchise. So are the team’s employees."

Marlins sweep Cubs to advance to NLDS, keep magical run going - (USA TODAY)
"'You saw how happy everybody was. Running around the bases, you’re just floating. It’s just something you can’t explain.'" - Garrett Cooper

Braves will face Marlins in NLDS - (AJC.com)
"The Braves will attempt to do what’s never been done: eliminate the Marlins from the postseason."