MLB Trade Rumors: 3 Potential Suitors For Nationals' Slugger Lane Thomas

The Washington Nationals could find themselves fielding inquiries for outfielder Lane Thomas later this summer, with three teams being named as potential suitors: the Cleveland Guardians, Tampa Bay Rays, and Kansas City Royals, as noted by Tim Kelly.

Despite not boasting headline-grabbing star power, Thomas's consistent performance and versatility make him an enticing prospect for teams seeking outfield depth.

Thomas has one more year of arbitration eligibility before becoming a free agent in 2026. As a result, the Nationals could opt to leverage Thomas' value in the trade market rather than risk losing him for nothing in free agency.

In Cleveland, Thomas emerges as a potential solution to the Guardians' outfield needs, offering a blend of defensive stability and offensive upside.

Lane Thomas GRAND SLAM 💥 @Nationals pic.twitter.com/12xlftIYUQ

— B/R Walk-Off (@BRWalkoff) September 20, 2023

His ability to seamlessly integrate into their roster dynamics, coupled with his speed and defensive prowess, could provide an immediate boost as the team navigates through a transitional phase.

Last season, the 28-year-old slashed .268/.315/.468, with 28 home runs, 86 RBIs, 20 stolen bases, and 101 runs scored across 156 games played.

Meanwhile, the Tampa Bay Rays, renowned for their adept roster management, see Thomas as a diamond in the rough—a player with untapped potential who could thrive under their development system.

His versatility to play all outfield positions aligns well with the Rays' analytical approach to team-building, promising valuable flexibility in a highly competitive AL East environment.

Lane Thomas truther checking in pic.twitter.com/tpRCZHubCg

— Talkin Nats (@TalkinNats) April 14, 2024

Across the league, the Kansas City Royals could view Thomas as a young talent worth investing in, fitting neatly into their ongoing rebuilding efforts.

With his power potential and athleticism, Thomas could become a vital component of the Royals' emerging core of players. Kansas City offers him not only an opportunity for significant playing time but also a chance to contribute to a team on the rise, making it an attractive destination for his services as the trade deadline approaches.

Thomas is a former fifth-round pick by the Toronto Blue Jays in the 2014 MLB Draft. Photo Credit: Robert Edwards-USA TODAY Sports