NATIONALS SETTLE FOR CF ADAM EATON
The Washington Nationals acquired outfielder Adam Eaton from the Chicago White Sox for pitchers Lucas Giolito, Reynaldo Lopez and Dane Dunning.
What does it give the Washington Nationals
It was widely reported that Washington was trying to acquire center-fielder Andrew McCutchen from the Pirates, but that deal never materialized. So, the Nationals turned their attention towards the left-hand-hitting Eaton. Look for the veteran table-setting outfielder to bat first or second in D.C. He is also expected to take over in center field, with budding superstar Trea Turner moving elsewhere. This was an expensive deal for Washington, but one that makes their offense much better.
What does it give the Chicago White Sox
The White Sox did great here to replenish their starting rotation in a post-Chris Sale era. Adding both Giolito and Lopez, both of whom saw time in Major League Baseball last season and are considered top starting pitching prospects, is an excellent move for a rebuilding squad. Giolito is considered the top talent acquired, but both Lopez and Dunning are also high-upside starter candidates for down the road. With one move, Chicago may have solidified three fifths of their future rotation.
Fantasy impact
Eaton's offensive impact should be felt in Washington, and his fantasy stock should benefit as a result. Playing in the same lineup as both Bryce Harper and Turner should be a boon for all Eaton fantasy owners in 2017. Giolito and Lopez are legitimate starting candidates for the White Sox next season, and both could wind up landing jobs. Both should be considered solid picks in non-keeper leagues and both are close to untouchable status in keeper leagues. As for Dunning, he too is a quality keeper who will likely be taken early in most keeper leagues in 2017.
