Report: Nats have preliminary talks with Adam LaRoche
According to Amanda Comak, the Washington Nationals have had preliminary discussions with 1b Adam LaRoche on a new contract. LaRoche's current deal has a mutual option for 2013, but the parties are discussing a long term contract extension.
One season after returning from a shoulder injury, LaRoche put up big numbers, batting .271 and smacking 33 home runs and driving in 100 runs. LaRoche provided the Nats power at the clean up spot, providing excellent protection for Ryan Zimmerman. I have no problem with resigning LaRoche. The Nationals do have Tyler Moore ready, but he could be a possible trade piece to upgrade elsewhere. The Nationals also have Chris Marrero, a former first rounder.
LaRoche not only provides significant pop in the lineup, but added excellent defensive skills at first base. Furthermore, his veteran leadership in a young clubhouse can't go underestimated.
Edwin Jackson also hinted that he has had preliminary discussion with the Nats to return next season. Jackson signed a 1 year, $11 million deal last season to join the Nats rotation.
