The Washington Nationals and Adam LaRoche finally reached a deal on January 8 that will bring the first baseman back to the Nats for two years and $24 million.

The 33-year-old slugger might feel as though he had to settle, but in the end he made the right call by choosing the Nationals. He had been rumored to have some interest from the Boston Red Sox according to Jen Royle.

It was speculated by ESPN's Jim Bowden last week that LaRoche was looking for a three-year contract, but in essence should have been grateful that the Nationals were still showing interest at the time.

 

 

Hi-res-153937854_crop_exact Rob Carr/Getty Images
Ultimately, LaRoche has made the right move settling in D.C. His expectations of a three-year deal were lofty to begin with.

With the scrutiny that is involved in going to Boston and playing in Boston, it was the right decision to return to D.C., where he was embraced by the fans and the team around him. He is looked to as a veteran leader for the players on the ballclub, whereas in Boston he would be no more than just another name on the team that is always expected to perform out of this world.

LaRoche might have been waiting quite a long time for a three-year deal, and frankly, a two-year deal was a pretty good deal for him to finally receive. 

Staying in D.C. also allows LaRoche to remain in the National League, where he has played 1,180 games, compared to only six in the American League—ironically enough, with the Red Sox. LaRoche proved last season what he is capable of when he becomes comfortable in a uniform.

Hi-res-151655846_crop_exact LaRoche was a disappointment his first year in D.C.
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After only 43 games and a .172 batting average in his first season with the Nationals, LaRoche was able to break out and find his place in the Nats lineup. If he is able to come close to the 33 home runs and 100 RBI that he tallied last season, the Nationals and LaRoche will certainly feel as though the right decision was made.

The lineup that will surround LaRoche in D.C. is also a reason that it will benefit him to stay in Washington rather than taking off to Boston. A younger lineup with more potential surrounds LaRoche, which will make it a bit easier for him to achieve his 2012 production numbers again.

LaRoche will once again be able to prosper from being viewed as a veteran and not have to deal with the scrutinizing media in Boston, thus allowing him to play relaxed and produce numbers similar to what he was able to put up last season.