NATIONALS LAND VET BAT HOWIE KENDRICK
The Washington Nationals acquired infielder/outfielder Howie Kendrick and cash from the Philadelphia Phillies for pitcher McKenzie Mills and international bonus pool money in 2017-18.
What does it give the Washington Nationals
The Nationals have been hit repeatedly with the injury bug to position players this season, and are currently missing shortstop Trea Turner, center-fielder Adam Eaton and left-fielder Jayson Werth. Kendrick may eventually serve a utility role for Washington but could be needed to serve as the everyday left-fielder for awhile (which was his main position with the Phillies this season). He is a solid veteran addition for the playoff-bound Nats.
What does it give the Philadelphia Phillies
The Phillies were likely going to lose Kendrick to free agency this off-season, so they did well to at least get something in return for his services. The international bonus money should help Philadelphia down the road, while McKenzie is a decent 21-year-old, left-handed pitching prospect for the future. With Kendrick gone, expect Aaron Altherr and Nick Williams to play regularly on the outfield corners for the Phils down the stretch.
Fantasy impact
Kendrick loses some short-term fantasy value if he no longer plays regularly, though with Werth still out of the lineup he may see regular at-bats in left field. Altherr and Williams should be better options down the stretch since they are expected to play more often. McKenzie should now be on the keeper radar for the future.
