What's the Hold-up on LaRoche?

Adam LaRoche is coming off a career year and wants to return to the Nationals. He was undoubtedly the best player on the team last season and the Nationals want him back. Sounds like a done deal.

So what’s the hold-up?

The main sticking point between the two sides is the contract length. LaRoche wants a three-year deal, but the Nationals are only willing to give him two.

LaRoche had the best season of his career in 2012, winning his first Golden Glove and Silver Slugger awards. A three-year contract would be a huge risk for the Nationals. Injuries have been an issue for LaRoche his entire career. Sure, he looked great last year, but his 154 at bats were the most he’s ever had in a single season. What we saw in 2012 may be what LaRoche is capable of when he stays healthy, but at 33, his physical decline will begin sooner rather than later. Is it worth it to give him three years for diminishing stats and possibly shortened seasons?

The fact is, the Nationals just are not desperate enough to offer him three years guaranteed. With a crowded outfield, the Nationals could move Michael Morse to first base if LaRoche went elsewhere. The team has no reason to risk three years.

As a free agent, LaRoche could certainly look somewhere else for a better deal, but as of yet no one has offered him the three years he was seeking.

When Josh Hamilton signed with the Angels, it was widely reported that Texas would pursue. While he is no Josh Hamilton, the Rangers desperately need hitting to replace their former slugger. If they were not willing to offer him three years, it’s hard to imagine anyone else would.

The only hope for LaRoche right now seems to be Boston. The Red Sox are currently trying to rework a deal with Mike Napoli after discovering a previously undisclosed hip condition. If they are unable to come to terms, the Red Sox would reportedly look at LaRoche. According to MLB.com's Peter Gammons, however, Boston isn't willing to give LaRoche a three-year deal either.

If no one will give him three years, then it may be time for a reality check for LaRoche if he wants to sign before spring training. If it continues to be a sticking point, the Nationals could offer him a team option for a third year in an attempt to placate him, but that is essentially the same thing as a two-year deal.

The Nationals would like him back, but they don’t need him. Even among the teams who do need him, he isn’t worth two years. Now it’s a question of how long LaRoche is willing to wait.