How to Waste an Offseason: Washington Nationals-Style

So you're living in one of the many suburbs of Washington D.C. Having long since given up on the Redskins, and bored with the trouble of the Wizards, the faithful few turn their attention to the old hot stove of the Washington Nationals.

Only this time, you're hopeful. Last offseason their were "whispers" of being interested in Mark Teixiera, and hints of finding some of the money necessary to sign big name free agents from the year before. Well folks, say hello to Jason Marquis and Ivan Rodriguez!

Why you ask? Well you tune in only to find out the sad reality of this never-given-a-chance to be proud organization: It's run by a group not yet equipped to do so.

Allow me to explain.

While trying to understand the recent signing of Ivan Rodriguez I couldn't help but notice the going rate of a couple other free agents (Marlon Byrd and Adam LaRoche) who would have had a more positive and immediate impact on this ballclub.

Not to undermine or even disregard the fact that Ivan Rodriguez is a sure hall of famer but there are other mentors out there for an up and coming catcher at a fraction of the cost of Ivan Rodriguez. I've heard the reasons for his signing: "great with pitchers, great for clubhouse chemistry," and the list indeed goes on.

You know who else fits this mold? Brad Ausmus. At One million dollars for a year. 

So you finally get over that signing thinking "we could be setting up for something big here." Then comes the news.

Jason Marquis.

Believing the mantra that is Jason Marquis and his playoff run (a la David Justice before him) I couldn't help but be confused. Especially after watching Marlon Byrd sign for five million dollars a season and Adam LaRoche ask for $10 million.

Why those two players you ask? Superstars they are not by any stretch of the imagination. Imagine, though, an infield with two solid corner infielders such as super third sacker Ryan Zimmerman and silky smooth LaRoche on the other.

Then imagine Marlon Byrd patrolling the outfield and catching everything in sight. Not to mention giving that young Nationals pitching staff what they really need. A solid foundation of defense behind them and the confidence they have that these guys will go get it. Did I mention they can hit a bit too?

So Nationals fans all I say is be patient and hope this new front office gets their act together one of these years. Until then enjoy your 2010 Nationals!...and what could have been.