Nationals Reportedly ‘Focused’ on Josh Donaldson in Free Agency

Let's just call it like it is: there's no replacing a player like Anthony Rendon.

The All-Star free agent third baseman, of course, signed a massive seven-year, $245 million contract with the Los Angeles Angels earlier in the week.

That news left the Washington Nationals with a gaping hole to fill at the hot corner, and they are reportedly seeking reinforcements in the form of Josh Donaldson.

The Nats have been previously linked to the former AL MVP, and this update all but confirms that they have authentic interest in seducing him to DC.

As MLB insider Jon Heyman notes, Washington has inquired about Kris Bryant -- a player the Cubs are reportedly actively shopping this winter -- but fear that Chicago will demand too significant of a prospect haul.

Why not keep hold of your top young guns while coughing up a bit of cash that you have to spend now that Rendon's contract is off the books? A Donaldson move simply makes perfect sense for the Nationals.

Club GM Mike Rizzo will, however, have to fend off the likes of the Dodgers, Braves, Rangers, and Twins, who all reportedly remain in the Donaldson discussion.

The Nationals certainly stand to be in contention for his signature, but it's a question of whether or not they're willing to offer him the fourth year he's supposedly seeking in a deal.