First the Nationals left the dungeon. Now they’re ready to get out of the basement.
The Nationals have spent the week pursuing free-agent first baseman Mark Teixeira during winter meetings with a reported eight-year, $160 million deal that might reach $200 million. This from a team whose $54.1 million payroll last year was 26th in baseball. The top seven Nats last year didn’t combine for Teixeira’s $20 million annual salary.
It seems the Lerner family realizes a new stadium isn’t enough. The 2.4 million visiting Nationals Park last season won’t largely return without an improved product. Last year’s 59-102 mark was baseball’s worst and still Washingtonians endured high food prices, scarce parking and tickets only lobbyists could afford. But with the recession limiting fan spending and the new stadium smell replaced by the stench of a rotten team, the Lerners need to improve the product or watch attendance freefall.
Teixeira wouldn’t solve all of the Nats’ ills. He can’t pitch everyday, too. But long-time Washingtonians remember how exciting slugging first basemen Frank Howard and Harmon Killebrew were. It’s not just chicks who dig the long ball.
Teixeira hit 33 home runs and 121 RBI combined for Atlanta and Los Angeles last season. Equally important is his .290 lifetime average which will protect Nats third baseman Ryan Zimmerman at the plate. The move helps the Nats improve two bats.
The Red Sox, Orioles, Angels and maybe the Yankees are pursuing Teixeira. Normally, Washington can’t compete with the big markets. The Yankees spent $207 million last year, though they didn’t make the playoffs, either. The Lerners have learned it takes big money to compete in the big leagues. The other three pro teams’ owners in town aren’t afraid to spend it. The Lerners can’t bank on the fans’ patience anymore after four eroding seasons. They need hitters to make coming to ballpark worthwhile.
If Washington doesn’t sign its No. 1 free agent mark, at least the Nats showed good faith with a big money deal. Fair enough. Go after Adam Dunn, who has hit 40 homers in five consecutive seasons. Trade Nick Johnson for a pitcher. Every hot stove league follower knows these moves.
The key is the Nats are willing to spend some of those millions generated by the new stadium. Fans are willing to pay another couple years if seeing progress, but they won’t be suckers forever.
Rick Snider has covered local sports since 1978. Contact him at [email protected].
