WASHINGTON -- In the hours leading up to Tuesday's non-waiver Trade Deadline, the Nationals found themselves at the center of speculation and the rumor mill, with general manager Mike Rizzo juggling several possibilities in the final 24 hours on what direction to take the franchise.
Rizzo ultimately decided to stand pat, betting on a talented but underachieving roster that began the day a game under .500. The Nationals made one move before Tuesday's Deadline passed, shipping right-hander Brandon Kintzler to the Cubs for a Class A pitcher, Jhon Romero, but this Deadline will ultimately be remembered for what Washington did not do on the trade market as much as what it did.