The Washington Nationals have no real use for Michael Morse after signing Adam LaRoche to a two-year deal. So which teams will step up and try to acquire the slugger? The Atlanta Braves, New York Yankees and Mets are possible destinations.
Okay, so I added the Braves to the mix, but they are searching for a right-handed left fielder to complete their 2012 offseason moves. And think about it, the Braves could have a scary lineup if they add Morse to the mix.
They have power with Jason Heyward, Freddie Freeman, Dan Uggla and B.J. Upton. Why not add another bat that can hit balls over the fence? The Braves also possess a ton of prospects they could offer for Morse.
The Yankees aren't known for having a rich farm system, so putting together a deal might be a little difficult for them. We know the Nationals are not easily fooled when making trades, so they might expect a lot in return for healthy Morse.
Also in the mix are the Mets who have been asking for outfield help all offseason long. Morse could help the middle of the lineup already secured with the signing of David Wright. In case they want to let go of Ike Davis, Morse could also play first base.
What makes Morse such a likely candidate for both New York teams is his 2013 salary. Morse is expected to make $7 million next season and we all know how cheap the Yankees have been as they have chosen not to heavily pursue this season's top free agents.
The Mets are in rebuilding mode, so $7 million for a guy who can potentially blast 30 homers and drive in 100 RBI is a bargain.
Of course, the question is Morse's health. He missed a good portion of the season due to a peck muscle injury. In 103 games in 2012, Morse hit 18 homers and drove in 62 runs while posting a .291 batting average.
Anywhere he lands, expect the team to get better. Not that the Mets can make it to the playoffs, but there is no doubt that they will have, at least, an exciting middle of the lineup.
