Report: Nationals talking to Rays about Kiermaier
News of the day out of Washington was centered around 24-year-old star Bryce Harper and his contract extension - or lack thereof - possibly influencing the Nationals intense search for outfielders.
Other than the club's interest in Andrew McCutchen - which apparently is at a standstill due to Pittsburgh's asking price - the Nationals have engaged in trade talks with the Tampa Bay Rays regarding two-time AL Gold Glove winning center fielder Kevin Kiermaier, according to Bob Nightengale of USA Today Sports.
The Rays asking price for Kiermaier, however, remains "exorbitantly" high, Nightengale notes.
The 26-year-old defensively gifted center fielder put together a solid all-around season in 2016, hitting .246/.331/.410 combining for 12 home runs and 21 stolen bases - both career highs.
Since entering the league, Kiermaier has also posted an impressive 16.4 WAR, in large part to his defensive play.
The Nationals have been rampant in their search for upgrades at multiple positions, including the rotation as the team has shown the most interest in trading for Chicago White Sox ace Chris Sale, reportedly willing to include top prospects Lucas Giolito and Victor Robles as part of a package.
Additionally, the team saw its former closer Mark Melancon opt for greener pastures in San Francisco, agreeing to a four-year, $64-million deal. The Nationals are still expected to make a run at Aroldis Chapman and Kenley Jansen in free agency.