Atlanta Braves Should be Encouraged With Washington’s Recent Moves

The Atlanta Braves and Washington Nationals have continued to be rumored to be the top two teams bidding for veteran Josh Donaldson. Washington’s recent moves should encourage Atlanta about their chances of landing the veteran.

The Atlanta Braves may have won the division but it was the Washington Nationals who won the World Series. Now they are competing with Atlanta for their top free agent, Josh Donaldson. However, Atlanta should be encouraged about their chances of landing Donaldson after the National’s recent moves.

The Nationals signed two infielder in Starlin Castro and Asdrubal Cabrera. Both of these infielders will expect to start and both are capable of playing third base. Signing both players seems to point to an unwillingness to meet Donaldson’s asking price.

A price that has continued to go up with so many teams interested in bringing the veteran in. It is up to 4-years and rumored to be north of $110-million dollars. While this is high, Atlanta needs to go ahead and make the move.

It will cost the team less than acquiring one of the top third basemen on the trade market. If they opt to allow Donaldson to walk they are going to have to give up prospects to replace his production.

Opting to not replace his production and count in current options on the roster shouldn’t be a consideration. If they went with that approach Atlanta won’t be in contention for a World Series, they lack the rotation to carry what would be a lineup without a cleanup hitter.

Josh Donaldson’s asking price may be a bit above his actual value, however, with their other options it is the move Atlanta needs to make to continue to be a true contender. They will be facing a confident Washington club now that simply cannot under any circumstance land Josh Donaldson.