Rangers, Nationals discussed Stephen Strasburg trade

The Rangers and Nationals had trade talks about Stephen Strasburg last winter, according to Ken Rosenthal of Fox Sports. Rosenthal added that the two sides were never really close on a deal, and that discussions involved a number of players.

"The talks were wide-ranging, involving a number of names, sources said. The Rangers also had interest in outfielder Steven Souza, who later went to the Rays in a deal that brought the Nats righty Joe Ross and shortstop Trea Turner.

The Nats, meanwhile, had interest in shortstop Jurickson Profar, who at the time was expected to return from a torn muscle in his right shoulder."

This comes as a bit of a surprise, as the Nationals had put together a formidable rotation for the 2015 season, which included their former first overall pick. 2015 hasn't gone all that well for Strasburg, as he's dealt with injuries and posted a 4.30 ERA in 98.1 innings.

It's worth noting that Strasburg becomes a free agent following next season, and the Nationals may have trouble bringing him back. They committed seven years and $210 million to Max Scherzer this past winter, and they will have to decide on whether or not to bring back Jordan Zimmermann this offseason.

If they hold on to Zimmermann, it's within the realm of possibility to see the Nationals reengage trade talks about Strasburg. His value may be lower than last winter because of his recent performance, but he's still only 27 and he's a former first overall pick. If they do move him, the asking price would undoubtedly be high. On the other hand, if Washington chooses to let Zimmermann walk, it would be more likely that they could try to figure out a way to get Strasburg back into the fold for the future.