"The news is out in Washington D.C. has it has MacKenzie Gore headed to the Texas Rangers. In return, the Nationals returned a package of young prospects. From a long-term standpoint, this was a great trade that we have speculated to be in the works for quite some time. From a short-term standpoint, the Nationals have lost their ace, and now they must fill the gap. These are three players that could be signed in free agency to join this young rotation."
"This may not be the sexiest pick, but it would be a productive, risk-averse signing. Chris Bassitt is 37-years old, and still going strong. He recorded a 3.96 ERA in 2025, and a solid K-Rate of 8.77 Strikeouts per Nine Innings. The biggest value-add may also be that of his health. Bassitt has played 30+ games in each of his last four seasons. Age may just be a number."
"Martinez recently recorded his worst ERA since his return from Nippon Professional Baseball (Japan) at a 4.45. However, Martinez did put up ERA's of 3.10, 3.43, and 3.47 dating from 2024, back to 2022, respectively. That ceiling can be very worthwhile with the new analytical Nationals brass working to get him back into form pre-2025 form."
The Nationals traded MacKenzie Gore to the Texas Rangers and now need to fill an opening in a young rotation. Chris Bassitt is a veteran option: 37 years old, durable, with a 3.96 ERA in 2025, a K-rate of 8.77 K/9, and a likely market price near $15 million per year on a short 1-2 year deal. Nick Martinez offers upside after earlier strong seasons despite a 4.45 ERA recently; he projects near $14 million AAV and would fit a short-term contract. Zack Littell is listed as another potential free-agent target.
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