A source tells MLB.com's Bill Ladson that the Nationals are still "strong candidates" to land Brandon Webb this offseason, though talks between the two sides are not expected to heat up until the Winter Meetings begin eight days from now. Washington GM Mike Rizzo was the Diamondbacks scouting director when the team drafted Webb in 2000, so the two long, prior relationship.
The Dodgers, Pirates, Twins, Rangers, and Cubs have all expressed interest in the 31-year-old righty, though we could probably cross the Dodgers off the list after the Jon Garland signing. The Nats have made it clear that they have money to spend on pitching, and Webb is just the latest free agent hurler on their radar. The former Cy Young Award winner has made just one start over the last two seasons due to shoulder trouble, and initial reports out of Instructional League had his fastball velocity in the low-80's. Tim Dierkes broke down his free agent stock earlier this month.
Webb will most likely go to where he has the best chance for the playoffs, and a starting job. Which is why he’ll choose the Nationals. Webb would be #2 or #3 on Twins and Rangers list, and Cubs I don’t see being really a player with Webb.
Do you see the White Sox as a potential suitor, if they trade away one of their starters like Floyd, Danks, or Jackson?
Danks is reportedly being shopped, but they want a lot for him, along with the others, Williams probably want a lot, so doubtful they trade one of them.
Whered you hear Danks is getting shopped?
I just realized that. I meant Gavin Floyd.
I’m kind of confused as to what you’re saying. Are you saying that Webb still wants to be an ace and pitch in the playoffs in 2011? If that’s the case, I can’t see the Nats being his top choice.
low 80s is right where i expect the velocity to be. He hasn’t really pitched for 2 seasons and even when he was healthy, he would sit around 87-90 with that sinker. I don’t get why people are freaking out so much about his velocity.
You just explained why theyre freaking out. Low 80s is not going to get it done
yeah but he hasn’t pitched in 2 years so naturally there would be some rust to kick off. Give him a spring training and an offseason and if he is actually healthy, i think he can get his real velocity back.
The Brewers should take a chance on him, he would be a good fit with them.
I think this is a good place for him, but also think the Nationals need to sign a starter more durable than him.
I’d like for them to go after Jorge De La Rosa.
Garland wouldve been nice last year for 2 yr deal instead of Marquis