Washington Nationals: Signing Prince Fielder Would Make Them Playoff Contenders

The last time the Washington Nationals had a power-hitting first baseman, they went 69-93.

But in 2010, the Nationals didn't have the starting pitching they do now, and the signing of free-agent Prince Fielder this offseason would boost them into playoff contention.

Last season the Nationals scored 624 runs, 24th in the majors. Despite this, they went 80-81, improving their record by 11 wins in large part because of their pitching.

Fielder would undoubtedly boost the Nationals' scoring. He hit .299, with 38 home runs, 120 RBI and an OPS of .981—third in the National League behind teammate Ryan Braun and Matt Kemp.

Beyond that, Fielder's been incredibly consistent. He's hit at least 28 home runs in each of his last six seasons. He's also still relatively young at 27 years of age and would certainly be worth a long-term contract.

The acquisition of former Athletics starting pitcher Gio Gonzalez this offseason was huge. Not only is he a solid starter, he takes pressure of Stephen Strasburg, who is coming off Tommy John surgery and will likely be limited to around 160 innings.

The Nationals also have fourth-year starter Jordan Zimmermann, who grew by leaps and bounds last season, recording  a 3.18 ERA and 1.15 WHIP in 26 starts.

Fielder would likely be the replacement for Adam Laroche at first base for the Nationals, who had an ugly 2011. In 43 games last season, Laroche hit .172 with three home runs.

Signing Fielder is a no-brainer for the Nationals, which is why they are generally considered the front-runners for his services.

Landing a hitter of Fielder's caliber would boost them into playoff contention and give them a good chance of going to the postseason for the first time in franchise history.