Nationals reportedly linked to Orioles slugger with offseason looming

The Washington Nationals haven't been a serious contender since they won their only World Series title in 2019. They also are far out of contention this year and are not playing for the postseason.

However, they may be closer to contending than many expect them to be. They have young stars such as CJ Abrams, James Wood, Dylan Crews, and McKenzie Gore that are set to lead them into a new era.

At the same time, they could use some help in free agency, and they've already been linked to Baltimore Orioles slugger Anthony Santander by Tim Kelly of Bleacher Report.

Santander wouldn't have to go too far if he signed with the Nationals, thanks to Washington D.C. and Baltimore being within close proximity of each other.

He's had a strong season with the Orioles. Even with a .236 average, Santander has hit 38 home runs and has 86 RBI on the season to go along with an .819 OPS.

Should Washington bounce back into contention, the National League East will be a rather tough division in 2025, with the Philadelphia Phillies, Atlanta Braves, and New York Mets still present.

However, adding Santander would be a win-now move for General Manager Mike Rizzo and would show that Washington has high goals for the future. They need an established bat in their lineup and Santander would provide them with that.

Santander will have plenty of teams interested in him when the offseason gets underway, and the Nationals would be wise to check in on him if they plan to contend in the near future.

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