Ian Desmond shares farewell message to Nationals fans
As free-agency looms, Washington Nationals shortstop Ian Desmond posted a farewell message to fans on Twitter.
“12 years. Practically half my life shaped by unbelievable men and women within the Washington Nationals organization,” Desmond wrote. “I came in ‘raw’ and leaving, I couldn't be more sure of who I am or who I stand for.”
Desmond hit .233 with 19 home runs and 62 RBIs in 2015. In his seven years with the Nationals, Desmond posted a .264 batting average, 110 home runs, 432 RBIs and 917 hits.
The Montreal Expos drafted Desmond in the third round of the 2004 draft, which was their last draft before moving to Washington, D.C. and becoming the Nationals in 2005. Desmond is the final player drafted by the Expos remaining with the Nationals.
Desmond is expected to hit free-agency on Nov. 1. If Washington does not bring him back, Desmond could be replaced at shortstop by rookie Trea Turner, who was acquired by the Nationals from the San Diego Padres in a three-team trade in the off-season. Turner is considered the Nationals’ best position-player prospect.
Read Desmond’s full statement below:
