Over the last several days, a new name has appeared as a possibility for the Washington Nationals in their closer search. Cincinnati Reds closer Raisel Iglesias is having a very productive season for the second straight season. The former starter converted to a reliever last year and hasn’t looked back since. Is he a match for what the Nationals need?
Iglesias has all of the intangibles to have continued success in Washington. His ERA and WHIP are very low and his strikeout rate is very high. He is accomplishing this with half his games taking place at Great American Ballpark known for its ability to hurt pitchers and favor batters.
There are plenty of reasons to admire Iglesias. Because of those reasons, the big caveat is the price tag.
The Reds originally signed the Cuban fireballer to a favorable six-year deal. Three years remain on this contract and will pay him less than $6 million in each. Iglesias has already accrued over $9 million (including this year’s full salary) which has unfortunately gone to waste due to the franchise’s struggles.
Iglesias is making far less than other notable closers the Nationals have targeted, such as David Robertson. He’s also younger, has more years of control, and most importantly—he is a better pitcher right now.
The abridged version of the above: Iglesias is going to cost the Nationals at least one big prospect.
Does this mean they have to trade coveted prospect Victor Robles? Probably not. Iglesias does not have the same history as Aroldis Chapman, the original Cuban Missile. The Nationals would be foolish to buy someone so high when he hasn’t done it for a full year.
Lesser prospects are a more reasonable start. Andrew Stevenson could become MLB ready by next season. Washington has a few other outfield prospects that could interest the Reds, too. Although, they have several in their system already.
There’s also a question of whether the Nationals have any interest in shortstop Zack Cozart. In the midst of a career-year where he’ll start in the All-Star Game, Cozart is one of the most sellable pieces in MLB. Unfortunately, not many contending teams need a shortstop. The Nationals may have some desire to add Cozart with Trea Turner out for at least two months.
Cozart and Iglesias are not going to come easy. Considering the Reds’ greatest need right now is starting pitching and the Nationals have very little to spare, it may not be a good match.
The Nationals are better off using their resources on someone with a longer history of success in the ninth inning. It’s also prudent they land at least one pitcher who can get it done in the eighth.
An Iglesias trade is something to explore in the offseason. For now, the Nationals should check in on the other options available.
Tim Boyle is a Staff Writer for Outside Pitch MLB covering the Washington Nationals. Follow Tim on Twitter.
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