Nationals rumors: Ian Desmond, Chris Young

The Washington Nationals have "remained in touch" with free agent right-hander Chris Young, but they are "not even close" to reaching an agreement on a contract extension with shortstop Ian Desmond.

Young recently opted out of his minor league contract with the Nationals after he didn't earn a spot on the team's Opening Day roster. Still, general manager Mike Rizzo told reporters -- including Mark Zuckerman of CSN Washington -- that the team has remained in contact with Young. Rizzo added that a decision on whether or not to rejoin the team -- likely on a minor league contract -- is up to Young.

Young opts out

The right-hander has decided to try his hand at the free-agent market.

Several teams have reportedly expressed interest in Young since he parted ways with Washington. The 33-year-old maintained an ERA of 4.15 over 20 starts for the New York Mets last season.

There have been reports that the Nationals and Desmond were discussing a long-term contract extension this offseason. However, William Ladson of MLB.com was told by an unnamed source that Washington isn't close to a deal with the shortstop. He adds that talks between the Nationals and Desmond "have never been serious."

Desmond is in his first season of arbitration eligibility, as he's set to make a $3.8 million this year. The 27-year-old -- who hit .292/.335/.511 in 2012 -- won't hit the free agent market until 2015.

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