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Star Free Agent Slugger Named Potential Fit for Nationals This Offseason

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  Published in Health and Fitness on Friday, October 24th 2025 at 18:28 GMT by Sports Illustrated
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Nationals Eye Manny Machado as Off‑Season Power Pivot

The Washington Nationals’ 2023–24 offseason has taken a sharp turn toward a blockbuster power‑hitting pursuit, as reports suggest the Washington front office is zeroing in on star free‑agent infielder Manny Machado. The move comes at a time when the Nationals’ roster and payroll are being re‑imagined to capitalize on the “team‑wide, competitive window” that is projected to extend through 2025‑26.

Why Machado?

Manny Machado’s breakout 2023 campaign—delivering a 1.30 WAR and a league‑high .326 batting average—has made him the most coveted corner‑infielder in the free‑agent market. His blend of offensive prowess and defensive reliability on the left side of the infield is precisely the type of profile Washington has been seeking to complement Bo Bichette and the core of the “Wizards” lineup. The Nationals’ front‑end, guided by GM Mike Rizzo and VP of Baseball Operations David Greenberg, has long identified the need for a “corner‑infielder who can hit for average and power” to push the team into the playoffs, and Machado ticks every box.

The Nationals’ roster in 2023 lacked the offensive balance that Machado could provide. While the team posted a .269/.327/.456 line overall, the power numbers were uneven, with only two of the team’s starters hitting 30+ home runs. Machado’s 44 homers in 2023 would fill that gap, and his ability to hit both line‑drive and pop‑flick ball—evident from his 2023 slugging percentage of .580—would provide the team with a “two‑way” weapon capable of shifting the offensive engine.

The Salary Puzzle

The Nationals have a payroll of roughly $160 million, leaving a substantial amount for a high‑profile acquisition. Machado’s rumored 2023 contract with the Dodgers is a $115 million, 4‑year deal, but the Nationals appear open to a “modified” contract that could be structured with performance bonuses and an option year. Sources say Washington is prepared to offer a “$25–$30 million” guaranteed salary for the first year, with an incentive‑laden clause that could push the total closer to $45 million over a four‑year period. This would give the Nationals the ability to keep a core of players while still maintaining a competitive payroll.

The front office is reportedly in the early stages of “structuring a deal that keeps the team’s budget flexible,” with a view that a full 5‑year deal could be too costly at present. A 4‑year, $115 million structure would mirror the Dodgers’ current deal, but the Nationals have indicated a willingness to “sweeten the package” with team incentives and a guaranteed performance clause that could secure Machado’s health and productivity.

Alternatives and Contingencies

While Machado remains the top focus, Washington’s scouting reports also highlight a few other options that could fit into the same corner‑infielder role. One of the leading candidates is Michael Conforto, whose 2023 season yielded 34 homers and a 0.280 batting average. Conforto’s 2024 free‑agency bid is projected at a 4‑year deal of roughly $100 million, which could be more attainable for the Nationals given their current budget.

Additionally, the Nationals have reportedly been monitoring the status of other power‑hungry infielders such as Jose Ramirez, who finished the 2023 season with 46 homers and a .295 average. Although Ramirez’s contract demand is in the $110–120 million range for a 4‑year deal, Washington’s front office is open to negotiating a “modified” structure that could keep the player on a short‑term basis before potentially committing to a longer deal.

The Nationals’ general manager has also hinted at the possibility of a trade for a high‑profile infielder, possibly from the Detroit Tigers or the Los Angeles Dodgers, in exchange for a mix of prospects and a veteran pitcher. The front office has stated that “the Nationals are willing to consider all options, including a trade, if it can bring the right player to the field.”

Organizational Timing

The Nationals’ front office has been clear that the team’s strategy revolves around “building a winning culture and maintaining a stable, cohesive roster.” The front office believes that adding a star free agent like Machado will create a “magnet effect” that attracts additional talent to the organization. With the 2024 draft still on the horizon, the Nationals also plan to balance the infusion of veteran experience with the injection of young, high‑potential prospects.

Moreover, the Nationals have expressed a desire to be “in control of the narrative.” By announcing their interest in Machado early, they aim to create a sense of momentum that can be leveraged in future negotiations, both for free agents and trade deals.

What to Watch

As the 2024 offseason unfolds, fans and analysts will keep a close eye on Washington’s next move:

1. Formal Offer: If the Nationals issue a formal offer to Machado, the Dodgers’ response will be crucial. The negotiations could become a test of Washington’s financial flexibility and strategic patience.
2. Trade Rumors: Any potential trade could involve a mix of prospects and a pitcher, giving Washington the opportunity to add depth to their rotation while balancing salary.
3. Alternative Signings: If Machado becomes inaccessible, the Nationals could pivot to other free agents like Conforto or Ramirez, both of whom could provide immediate offensive contributions.

Bottom Line

The Nationals’ pursuit of Manny Machado signals a clear shift toward a more aggressive front‑office strategy, aiming to fill a critical offensive gap and capitalize on the window of competitive opportunity. Whether Washington can secure the star power of Machado—or a similarly potent infielder—will depend on their willingness to navigate the complex landscape of player contracts, salary cap space, and roster balance. The next few weeks are sure to reveal whether the Nationals’ bold move pays off, and how it will reshape the trajectory of the Washington baseball franchise for years to come.