With the coaching staff in place, the next task for the Washington Nationals is assembling their 2018 roster.
Unlike last year when the team wanted a steady centerfielder and a closer, the needs this year are a fifth starter and a backup catcher. They go into the hot stove season as overwhelming favorites to win a third consecutive National League East crown with the roster they have now.
But, 12 Nats filed for free agency. Ryan Raburn came back on another minor league deal. Unless he makes the club, he will enjoy another fine summer in Syracuse on a team about to be owned by the New York Mets.