Reports over the past week indicated that the Washington Nationals might ultimately end up being sellers ahead of Tuesday’s trade deadline. A three-game winning streak heading into Saturday’s game against the Miami Marlins might change this.
Now, according to this report, Washington is looking to buy. In fact, the team is currently in negotiations with the above-mentioned Marlins about All-Star catcher J. T. Realmuto.
Sources indicate the Marlins and Nationals remain in discussions in a trade for JT Realmuto. Execs from both teams together in Miami. Nats are now willing to part with Victor Robles for JT as @JonHeyman & @JoeFrisaro noted. (1/2)
— Craig Mish (@CraigMish) July 28, 2018
What makes this report so darn intriguing is the Nationals’ willingness to include No. 1 overall prospect, outfielder Victor Robles, in a trade for the catcher.
That would be a mighty high price to pay. Though, catcher remains one of the biggest weaknesses for the underperforming Nationals. Under team control for the next two seasons, Realmuto would change that in a big way. He’s hitting .309 with 13 homers and 50 RBI on the season.
From a Marlins perspective, it’s a trade they seriously need to consider. Realmuto was not happy with the moves the team made this past offseason and doesn’t necessarily have a future in Miami. Robles would be a stellar return.