These contracts are insane in terms of dollars and years. Cashman was right to stop at 8 years for Robbie. Hated to see him go, but it is a business.

As a Nats follower, I think Rizzo was pretty smart. First, it means that don't have to sweat losing Zimmermann next year to free agency. They can trade Zim this year or let him walk after the season (leaving the Nats with about the best rotation assembled in 2 decades for this season). Second, by spreading the money out over 14 (14!) years, they keep the luxury tax out of play, and postpone much of the payments until after they get their next bump in TV rights (assuming that the issue is ever settled with Baltimore). Keeps their core plays (did I really say that?) together for 2-3 years, maybe longer if they can resign Desmond.

Rumors are, the Nats are willing to listen to offers for Strasburg. Do the Yankees have enough to make a deal?