Now that the Washington Nationals have signed outfielder Jayson Werth to a seven-year, $126 million contract, it’s quite possible the Nationals may not keep outfielder Josh Willingham. The Denver Post’s Troy Renck speculates the Rockies may be interested (with reservations) in a trade:
Still unclear what Nats would want for willingham. Rox are reluctant to give up young pitching ie esmil Rogers.
Troy Renck, Rockies
TroyRenck
Esmil Rogers is a 25-year-old right-hander who is expected to compete for the fifth spot in the rotation, but is a better candidate to pitch out of the bullpen in 2011. He went through his rookie struggles as both a starter and a reliever in 2010. He posted a 6.13 ERA in 72 innings pitched, but that really isn’t indicative of his talent. His Aug. 20 start against the Arizona Diamondbacks is more of what makes him a valuable pitcher for the Rockies long-term.
Josh Willingham had an outstanding first half in 2010 with a .913 OPS (15 home runs), but then had a knee injury in the middle of August that required season-ending surgery. However, he is expected to be fully recovered in time for 2011. He brings home run power in the 20-range and expressed a willingness to play first base for the team if Adam Dunn left (which he did, to the White Sox). He is arbitration-eligible and made $4.6 million in 2010.