The Washington Nationals have made quick work of their pursuit for a center fielder, as they have acquired Denard Span from the Twins for minor league pitcher Alex Meyer.
Earlier today MLBTradeRumors.com reported that in a recent interview Nationals general manager Mike Rizzo discussed the clubs desire to move young phenom Bryce Harper to one of the corner outfield spots. Rizzo said that the team was looking for a “dynamic” player in center field, who could also be the teams leadoff hitter.
Alex Meyer is a 6’9″ 22-year-old right handed pitcher who was ranked as the number two prospect in the Nationals farm system. He was drafted 23rd overall in the 2011 draft, and posted a 10-6 mark, with a 2.86 ERA, and 139 strikeouts in 129 innings of work.
The 28-year old Span had spent his entire five year career with the Twins. He posted a .283/.342/.395 batting line in 568 plate appearances with Minnesota in 2012. He is a career .284 hitter, and gives the Nationals the dynamic player they were looking for at the leadoff position. Span is still under contract and will earn $4.75MM in 2013 and $6.5MM in 2014. The Nationals will also have the right to exercise his $9MM club option for 2015, or decide to buy him out for $500K.
