Lannan For Sale?

(Photo: washingtonpost.com)

Bill Ladson of MLB.com reported this morning that the Washington Nationals could be trading away pitcher John Lannan. If the move happens, it will be done before Opening Day on April 5th.

The report also went on to say that General Manager Mike Rizzo is not going to just give away Lannan. He is waiting for the right package of prospects to be offered before deciding on a deal.

Coming into last season, Lannan was regarded by many as the teams ace. In 2011, he posted an 10-13 record in 33 appearances with a 3.70 era (best of his career). He struck out 106 batters and walked 76.

Since Lannan has been able to post solid numbers, he is a very attractive target for most teams and Rizzo should be able to get a few solid prospects in exchange for Lannan.

With the edition of Gio Gonzalez, Lannan has fallen virtually out of the starting rotation. With Stephen Strasburg, Jordan Zimmerman, Edwin Jackson, and Chien-Ming Wang expected to be the other four starters, Lannan will most likely be on the outside looking in on Opening Day.