MLB Trade Rumors: 3 Nationals Players "Receiving Trade Interest"

The Washington Nationals are drawing significant trade interest from rival teams for three of their key players: relievers Kyle Finnegan and Hunter Harvey, and right fielder Lane Thomas. 

Despite their recent struggles post-2019 World Series, the Nationals are experiencing a resurgence in 2024 with a near .500 record (35-36), tying them for the final NL Wild Card spot. 

However, if the team begins to fall out of contention before the trade deadline, discussions around trading these valuable assets are expected to intensify, as reported by Jon Morosi of MLB Network.

Multiple Nationals players have generated trade interest ahead of next month's deadline, including Kyle Finnegan, Hunter Harvey and Lane Thomas.

But at this point, it's not clear at all that they're going to sell.

In fact, the Nats are tied for a playoff spot.@MLBNetwork

— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) June 17, 2024

Finnegan and Harvey have been standout performers in the Nationals' bullpen. 

Finnegan, 32, is enjoying a career-best season with a 1.78 ERA and 0.86 WHIP, striking out 31 batters in 30.1 innings. 

Harvey, 29, has been equally impressive with a 2.75 ERA, a 28.3% strikeout rate, and a 5.5% walk rate over 33 appearances. 

Both relievers are under team control through 2025, making them cost-effective and attractive options for contenders looking to bolster their bullpens without significant financial commitment.

“Multiple” #Nationals players are generating trade interest, per @jonmorosi.

Morosi notes RHP Kyle Finnegan, RHP Hunter Harvey and OF Lane Thomas are among the players generating interest. pic.twitter.com/55F4gl7qSw

— MLB Deadline News (@MLBDeadlineNews) June 17, 2024

Lane Thomas, despite some defensive challenges in right field, has been a consistent offensive contributor for the Nationals. 

Currently hitting .238/.299/.402 with seven home runs, 23 RBIs, and 16 stolen bases, Thomas adds much-needed power to a lineup that ranks near the bottom of the league in home runs. 

With one more year of team control, Thomas remains a valuable asset, reducing the urgency to trade him unless a compelling offer arises. 

As the Nationals navigate the crowded Wild Card race, their decision to either sell these key players or retain them will significantly impact their playoff aspirations.

Photo Credit: Daniel Kucin Jr.-USA TODAY Sports