Source: Nationals 'Aggressive' in Pursuit of Zack Greinke

by Ed Price

Filed under: Nationals, Royals, MLB Rumors, MLB Hot Stove, MLB Winter Meetings

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- The Nationals keep generating buzz this offseason.

Washington is "being aggressive" in its pursuit of a trade for Royals ace Zack Greinke, a source said Wednesday.

That term seems to be the theme of the Nationals' offseason in the wake of their megadeal with Jayson Werth and reported pursuit of big-ticket free agents from Cliff Lee on down. But while luring quality free agents to D.C. might remain difficult until the Nationals can demonstrate they're ready to contend, they could make themselves better of their own accord by swinging a deal for an elite player like Greinke.

The pitcher is signed through 2012 at $13.5 million for each of the next two seasons. He can block a trade to 15 teams.

FanHouse analyst Frankie Piliere says the Nationals have enough young players in their farm system beyond the presumably untouchable Bryce Harper to make a trade, but it's a matter of where the Royals can find the best package in return.

 

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