Although the Nationals have made a few shrewd trades and free-agent signings to help them build one of the most successful teams in the Majors during the past six seasons, that foundation was built through the Draft. It's one of the areas that general manager Mike Rizzo, a former scout and still a scout at heart, takes the most pride in.
From Stephen Strasburg to Bryce Harper to Anthony Rendon, Rizzo has formed a special connection with those players they have "scouted, drafted and developed." So even though the Nationals will not make a selection until the 27th overall pick in this year's Draft, they are still hoping to add another impact player to their core.