Ryan Zimmerman and Nationals Agree to One-Year Deal for 2020 Season
The Washington Nationals were rumored to be bringing Ryan Zimmerman back on a new contract throughout the offseason, though the two sides were certainly not rushing to an agreement.
Well, on Friday it was reported that the slugger would be returning to the Nats on a one-year deal.
The Nationals and Ryan Zimmerman have a deal on a 1-year contract. Per source, he’ll make $2 million salary, plus up to $3 million in incentives based on games and plate appearances. Also includes a no-trade clause. (First reported by @barrysvrluga)
— Mark Zuckerman (@MarkZuckerman) January 25, 2020
Zimmerman was the team's first ever draft pick and made his debut during that same year in 2005. He has appeared in two All-Star Games since then and was a part of the 2019 World Series team.
The veteran had never been a free agent before this offseason and became one when the Nationals declined an $18 million option. His new salary of $2 million is more fitting with his -0.2 WAR from last year, though he could earn as much as $5 million via incentives.
The Nationals have an agreement on a one-year deal with Ryan Zimmerman, their all-time leader in games, hits, homers, RBI, etc., according to a person familiar with the deal. It is pending a physical.
— Barry Svrluga (@barrysvrluga) January 25, 2020
Zimmerman may not be an everyday player on this Nationals team, but he provides great veteran experience and a reliable bat off the bench. The team made both a smart and popular move to keep him around for another year.
It is entirely possible he returns to his All-Star form from 2017, but he'll first have to focus on staying healthy for the upcoming campaign.