Mike Morse and the rumor mill
Ever since the Washington Nationals inked Adam LaRoche to a new two year deal yesterday, the rumor mill on trade possibilities for the Nats and Mike Morse have heated up. As we wrote in our Live Microphone yesterday, GM Mike Rizzo would like to move Morse, but certainly does not need to for financial reason and will not just give Morse away for little return. One thing is clear, interest is out there. Repoorts yesterday put the teams at five that may be interested in acquiring Morse.
The American League East seems to be a popular spot for Morse speculation. Morse has stated no desire to be a designated hitter, but his problem may be, he is not considfered to be a top defensive player. Beltway rival Baltimore Orioles could be interested in landing Morse. Bird Wacthers seem soncern that Rizzo may press the Oriole for more than they should give up. Washington is likely looking for some left handed bullpen help, but coudl also look for a package of attractive prospects.
Newsday reports that fellow AL East New York Yankess may be interested in acquiring Morse. Yanks need some right handed slugging power.
Tampa Bay may also be interested in acquiring a right handed bat.
Other teams are interested as well.
It didn't take long for the rumors to start up again today, with Ken Rosenthal reporting that as many as seven teams may be in on Morse, including the Rays but with also the Yankees, Mariners, Indians, Orioles, Rangers, Phillies and Mets also being in on the National's slugger.
Here is a further run down of all interested teams.
Again, the Nationals are in a unique position here. At $7 million this season, moving Morse for financial reasons is not an issue here. They can keep Morse in the clubhouse if they choose. Thye bidding war will likely develop over the bnext few days. Given the success of Rizzo in building the current roster, we are pretty confident that Rizzo will make the right deal for Morse. Given the number of teams interested in acquiring Morse and the number of teams that need a right handed slugger, it is silly to think Morse woudl stay in DC.
