In this, the first installment of "Nats Chats" we will discuss the recent history of the Washington Nationals of the IBA and the current roster.
The past few years, GM Josh Dutt of the Nationals has done little to nothing to improve his team. Due to a recent surgical procedure, however, Dutt has a plethora of time to spend attempting to make the Nationals relevant again.
As of late, the only rebuilding the Nats have attempted has been through the draft and free agent prospect signings, which haven't panned out too well. Hopefully with a new found interest, this can change. The Nationals are struggling in all areas, hitting, pitching, defense. You name it, and there is a hole there in Washington. There are a few bright spots in the organization, however. Second base prospect Robert Puryear should make his Major League debut this season. Although hes not the fastest player in the league, Puryear has a knack for stealing bases and is an intelligent base runner. He makes solid contact, hitting .307 in AAA last season. Puryear also has a keen eye at the plate, drawing 72 walks in the minors last year. If Puryear can continue to develop, he has All-Star potential with 25+ home run potential.
Another young Nat is starter Steve Dutt. Dutt has great stuff, and allows very few home runs, he struggles however with control. If he can improve on the 147 walks he gave up last season, Dutt can develop into a top of the rotation starter.
We will see what kind of prospects the Nationals can acquire in this years draft, which is deep with offensive talent, and the free agent pool, which features a good amount of pitching depth.
