Report: Nationals have interest in Rockies' Blackmon
The Washington Nationals appear to be casting an eye out west for an answer to their woes in the leadoff spot.
Washington reportedly has been showing interest in Colorado Rockies outfielder Charlie Blackmon, according to Jon Morosi of MLB Network.
Acquiring Blackmon could be a boon for the Nationals, who haven't gotten any production out of the leadoff spot in the order and, by proxy, from their center fielders. Ben Revere, acquired from the Blue Jays over the winter, has seen his production decline dramatically amid injury, while youngster Michael A. Taylor hasn't fared much better.
NATS LEADOFF STRUGGLES
| Avg. (Rk.) | OBP | SLG | OPS |
|---|---|---|---|
| .211 (30th) | .256 (30th) | .317 (29th) | .573 (30th) |
In contrast to the Nats' lack of production up top, Blackmon has been a sparkplug at the top of the Rockies' lineup, owning a .305/.368/.481 line to go along with 12 home runs and 53 runs scored, as well as 10 stolen bases while patrolling center field in Denver. His 1.5 WAR ranks fourth among Rockies players, per Fangraphs.
It's unclear if the Rockies are interested in trading the 30-year-old, one of their more valuable players, or what they'd ask for as a return, but the price could end up being quite high. Blackmon is making $3.5 million this season and has two years of arbitration remaining before reaching free agency.