3 Nationals Prospects Who Should be Untouchable in Trade Talks

With the July 31 trade deadline looming, contending teams are looking to add talent to their roster in order to better their chances come October. While the Washington Nationals—currently second in the NL East—have a plethora of young talent, they may want to think twice before giving up any of their top prospects in a deadline deal.

1. Carter Kieboom, SS

Already a former Minor League Player of the Year, Kieboom has all the tools necessary to become a great MLB shortstop. Kieboom's bat speed and ability to hit to all fields is unique, and his patience as a hitter for his age is unparalleled. The Nationals can expect Kieboom to hit for both average and power for years to come.

2. Wil Crowe RHP

Crowe was the Nats' second round pick in 2017 and is working his way through the minor leagues. The 24-year-old should be in the MLB in 2020, and through 16 Double-A starts this season, he's logged a 3.87 ERA with 89 strikeouts in 95.1 innings of work. His arrival in the big leagues was delayed by a 2015 Tommy John surgery, but he's back on track to debut next season.

3. Mason Denaburg, RHP

After being recommended to the Nationals by former Cy Young winner Max Scherzer, Mason Denaburg enters the organization with impressive velocity and durability for his age. Only 19 years old, Denaburg will refine his raw talent alongside the Nationals' elite pitching staff and remain a rotation staple for the future. He won't be in the bigs for a few years, but with uncertainty clouding Washington's future, Denaburg is a piece they must hold onto.