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Report: Nationals' deal for Robertson fell through over money this winter

Aaron Doster / USA TODAY Sports

The Washington Nationals could have addressed their closer issues over the offseason if the Chicago White Sox had just eaten more of David Robertson's contract.

Both teams agreed to almost all of the parameters of the trade before spring training, executives with direct knowledge of the deal told Bob Nightengale of USA Today Sports: The Nationals would send left-hander Jesus Luzardo and infielder Drew Ward to the South Side in exchange for Robertson. The White Sox were reportedly going to eat roughly $12.5 million of the $25 million remaining on Robertson's deal, though sources said the deal fell through over the money.

Nationals relievers have combined to blow 8-of-20 save opportunities this season and own a 5.40 ERA over 125 innings - the second-worst mark in the majors.

Despite its troubles on the back end, the club sits comfortably with a 6 1/2-game lead in the division and owns the resources needed to acquire an arm. It was reported over the weekend that the front office is looking at a number of potential trade targets including Mark Melancon, A.J. Ramos, Kelvin Herrera, Alex Colome, and Roberto Osuna.

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