Breaking News: Washington Nationals Acquire Denard Span

The Washington Nationals filled their hole in the leadoff spot on Thursday, acquiring Denard Span from the Minnesota Twins for prospect Alex Meyer.

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BREAKING: @nationals acquire OF Denard Span from @twins for Minor League RHP Alex Meyer.

— MLB (@MLB) November 29, 2012

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While the parameters of the deal are yet to be known, it's clear that Span and Meyer are the big names involved.

There may be a few more prospects going over to Minnesota, but that has yet to be stated.

Jayson Werth was the Nationals' best leadoff man in 2012, but manager Davey Johnson needs him to be a run-producer in 2013.

Last season, Span hit .283/.342/.395 with four home runs, 41 RBI and 17 stolen bases. He has stolen 90 bases over the course of his five-year career.

Meyer, a top pitching prospect in the Nationals' system, made it to High-A ball in 2012. He's likely still a few years away from the majors, but the Twins will benefit from having a young power arm in their system.

The Nationals save money in trading for Span as opposed to going after a free-agent center fielder—either Michael Bourn or Angel Pagan.

Those resources can now be allocated elsewhere in an attempt to make Washington the National League favorites in 2013.

All in all, this was a fantastic trade for Washington general manager Mike Rizzo.