Will he stay? Will he go? Will he sign? Anxious Nats fans are closer than ever to finding out Alfonso Soriano’s fate. With next Monday’s trade deadline rapidly approaching, trade rumors are reaching a fever pitch. This afternoon, ESPN’s Tim Kurkjian is reporting that the Nats and White Sox are “extremely close” to getting a deal done.

The potential spoils for the Nationals may include Brandon McCarthy, a 23-year-old, 6’7″ righty with less than a year under his belt. McCarthy has pitched in relief for the starter-abundant ChiSox, but is projected as a top-of-the-rotation Major League starter. We know that the trade is not officially confirmed, but we can sniff a gentle waft of truth emanating from the ever-swirling pot of rumor stew. Hasta luego, Soriano?

Photo by Scott Abelman