The Washington Nationals face a shifting trade market as Kansas City Royals pitcher Seth Lugo finalizes a multi-year extension, removing one of the top trade assets from the deadline pool. This development could increase the demand and trade value of Nationals’ left-hander MacKenzie Gore as teams look elsewhere for starting pitching help before Thursday’s deadline.
How Lugo’s move impacts Nationals’ negotiating position
Seth Lugo, recently regarded as a prime trade candidate, had a $15 million player option for 2026, though many expected he might decline it to test free agency. Lugo’s strong recent performances, including a 7-5 record with a 2.95 ERA in 2024 and an exceptional 2023 season where he led Major League Baseball with a 16-9 record and 3.00 ERA across 33 starts, made him highly sought after by playoff contenders. His accolades include an All-Star selection, an American League Gold Glove, and a second-place finish in AL Cy Young voting.
With Lugo locking in his future in Kansas City, teams that once targeted him must now seek alternatives like Gore, raising the competition and likely the price for the Nationals’ promising lefty.
MacKenzie Gore’s rising profile and trade appeal
MacKenzie Gore has posted solid numbers despite a 4-10 record this season; his 3.52 ERA, 144 strikeouts over 117 innings, and recent All-Star nod showcase his talent and potential. The Nationals value Gore’s team control through 2028, giving them leverage to either keep or trade him depending on the offers.
Other teams covet him for the same reasons—his skill level combined with the security of two more years under team control is particularly attractive in a tight trade market for pitching.
Increased trade leverage for the Nationals
Before Lugo’s extension, Gore was expected to bring Washington roughly two prospects. Now, as trade options thin, the Nationals could command a package closer to three prospects. This enhanced bargaining position may prove too lucrative for interim general manager Mike DeBartolo and his staff to ignore, especially with the trade deadline fast approaching.
What lies ahead for Washington’s trade decisions
The Nationals find themselves at a crossroads—either keep Gore and build around his potential or leverage his increased market value to secure significant young talent through trade. Lugo’s extension indirectly heightens the anticipation and urgency surrounding Gore’s future, as teams scrambling for starting pitching seek to finalize deals by Thursday.
How the Nationals respond will signal their strategy for balancing competitiveness with long-term roster development during this critical period of Major League Baseball’s calendar.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Who is Seth Lugo Wiki?
A. Jacob Seth Lugo, born on November 17, 1989, is an American baseball pitcher. He currently plays for the Kansas City Royals in Major League Baseball (MLB). He has also played for the New York Mets and the San Diego Padres in the MLB. Lugo first appeared in the MLB in 2016.