Wire Taps: Washington Nationals’ new LF Kyle Schwarber on Juan Soto; Nats’ 2021 outfield defense + more

Kyle Schwarber is excited about being reunited with manager Davey Martinez, who was a bench coach in Chicago while Schwarber was coming up with the Cubs, but the newest addition to the Nationals’ lineup said he’s also excited about getting a look at Washington’s 22-year-old slugger, Juan Soto, up close, so he can pick his brain and learn from the Nats’ left-turned-right fielder.

“I think he’s probably — I think he’s the best hitter in the game, I really do,” Schwarber said of the 2020 NL batting champ.

“Even at his age, I think he’s one of the best hitters in the game. He’s showing it on a consistent basis right now, what he can do.

“I’m excited to get around him and talk hitting with him. Shoot, I might learn something. I’m excited to learn something from this guy.”

We’re all excited to learn from Soto. Go read your links...

NATS BEAT:

Kyle Schwarber on joining Nats - (MLB.com)
"Kyle Schwarber joins Intentional Talk to discuss signing with the Nationals, his new teammates and more."

Nationals signing Kyle Schwarber puts a spotlight on Victor Robles’s defense - (WaPost)
“Schwarber smiled like someone who’s too accustomed to hearing about his flaws. A breakdown of his defense — and Robles’s, too — should come with a few disclaimers: Fielding analytics are inexact.l

Tuesday morning Nats Q&A - (MASN)
"It’s a start, but the Nats are far from finished assembling their 2021 roster..."

Davey Martinez ‘very confident’ in Juan Soto’s ability to play right field - (NBC Sports Washington)
"The Nationals plan to make Juan Soto their everyday right fielder for the 2021 season, switching him over from left to make room for free agent signing Kyle Schwarber."

NATIONAL(S) BEAT:

How Bauer stacks up against Cole, Stras - (MLB.com)
"Bauer compares admirably to both Cole and Strasburg as a free agent, and while some will immediately argue that his Cy Young Award season -- something neither of the other two have had in their careers..."

MLB rumors: Blue Jays among Kris Bryant suitors; Nationals, Reds have discussed Eugenio Suarez trade - (CBSSports.com)
"The Nationals are seeking an upgrade at third base, and the Reds may have one available..."

MLB 2021 fan plan: No mandate for vaccines or COVID-19 tests - (Los Angeles Times)
"MLB does not plan to mandate that fans provide proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test result before entering a ballpark this season."

Reports: MLB to begin 2021 season on time, allow fans in limited capacity - (NBC Sports Washington)
"Major League Baseball reportedly informed teams Monday that they should expect to start spring training on time and prepare for a full 162-game campaign."

NL EAST UPDATES:

Phillies make coaching news, too, as they finalize 2021 staff - (NBC Sports Philadelphia)
"It’s not the biggest coaching news in town, not with the Eagles firing Doug Pederson, but the Phillies did announce their 2021 coaching staff on Monday."

Now More Than Ever, Francisco Lindor-Esque Deals Expose Cracks In MLB’s Foundation - (Forbes)
"Industry insiders have almost universally lauded the Mets for their acquisition of Lindor, but most have also stated that the Indians did as well as they could under the circumstances."

Ian Anderson on his rookie season - (MLB.com)
"Braves pitcher Ian Anderson joins MLB Tonight to discuss his rookie season, developing his changeup and his outlook for 2021."

Who should win first base position battle for Marlins entering 2021? - (Fish Stripes)
"The Marlins could have Jesús Aguilar, Garrett Cooper, and prospect Lewin Díaz battling for playing time at 1B."