In the sixth graphic in the series, we look at how to replace runs the Washington Nationals will be losing due to free agency. Jayson Werth will be the only remaining OF from the 2011 season with Rick Ankiel, Laynce Nix, and Jonny Gomes (possibly all) leaving as FA. Will they consider bringing Ankiel or Gomes back for bench help?
Instead of just using runs scored straight up, I've used wRC (weighted runs created) and wRAA (weighted runs above average) to get a more accurate reading. 2012 projections are from Bill James data on Fangraphs.
Click after the jump to see how the Nats can stay competitive.
Although the Nats hasn't been Prince Fielder discussions in a while, but things can always change, and personally, I take what GM's say with a grain of salt. Assuming he was to be signed, he would most definitely take this young team above and beyond their 2011 80-win season.
Picking up a veteran CF such as Coco Crisp (57 wRC, 119 GMS), or possibly even Cody Ross (56 wRC, 130 GMS) would just add onto wRC numbers. You'd still be able to have Roger Bernadina (34 wRC, 98 GMS) as a fourth outfielder, but I would assume some would want him to start full time in CF.
Updated: On Twitter, @comish4lif, asked, what about Adam LaRoche. His production would be a drop off from Fielder or even Pena, but he is already on the payroll. Here's how he compares to Pena in 150 games.
Pena: 80.4 wRC
LaRoche: 67.2 wRC
With that said, it would be a best if the Nats can get an upgrade at a spot where offense is more abundant.
Check out the previous in this series: A's | Mets | Brewers | Cubs | Cardinals
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