White Sox: David Robertson to Nationals Talks Stall
By Matt Manetti
A trade that would send White Sox closer David Robertson to the Washington Nationals have hit a snag. Ken Rosenthal reports the Nats front office doesn’t want to absorb the closer’s full $25 million salary.
The Chicago White Sox appeared to be on the verge of sending closer David Robertson to the Washington Nationals. Those talks are now in jeopardy. Ken Rosenthal Reports Washington is reluctant to take on all of Robertson’s contract. The righter hander has two years and $25 million left on his contract.
Statistically, Robertson is coming off his worst season since 2010. He did have 37 saves but blew quite a few big leagues during the season. $25 million is a big number and there’s evidence that he may not be worth that. He was serviceable for the White Sox last season, but by no means was he a top player at his position. But he will be paid like it.
If the White Sox could cut him loose and somehow get the Nationals to absorb his entire contract, that would be a huge plus. It may not, however, be a such a bad thing if they had to pay a portion of it. Zack Burdi could be ready for the next level. This means there won’t be a hole to fill. If the White Sox did pick up a portion of the $25 million, it wouldn’t be a the end of the world. They would still save plenty of money.
More from White Sox News
- The Chicago White Sox might have had a season ending loss
- The Chicago White Sox are expecting Tim Anderson back soon
- Miguel Cairo’s words spark life into the Chicago White Sox
- Dylan Cease should be the favorite for the AL Cy Young Award
- Ozzie Guillen speaks the whole truth about Tony La Russa
One of the biggest issues is what the White Sox will get in return. There aren’t a whole lot of reports with names but I would assume they are looking for another prospect. They probably won’t get a very high value prospect. But it’s possible they get someone who can maybe contribute to the team somewhere down the road.
This entire rebuild has gone quite well for Rick Hahn. He hasn’t made any mistakes in his dealings and may still have some tricks up his sleeve. Rosenthal notes the White Sox remain hopeful a deal will get done. And hopefully before opening day.
It’s no secret the Nationals need a closer and Robertson is the best one available. Hahn can definitely use that to his advantage to make a deal. However, he needs to be careful and not get too greedy. Otherwise he may not be able to make the trade.
Next: Rick Hahn Looking to Improve Depth
Robertson still as a lot of trade value and the Nationals have been after him since day one. It’s time for Hahn to close the deal. It make take him paying some of the right hander’s salary. But it would be worth it if they get a top prospect. I wouldn’t expect them to get someone like Victor Robles, but stranger things have happened. However, if the White Sox could add another top prospect to their already impressive collection, they will be even closer to building a future contender.