Why on earth would we not give him the $13.3 million qualifying offer? If he takes it, great, you have a great 5th starter and you only have one year's financial exposure. If he signs long-term elsewhere, you get the compensation.
Seems strange to leave that on the table. Perhaps there was an under-the-table handshake agreement when he came here on a one-year deal that the Nats would not do anything to deter other clubs from signing him long-term after the season? If he was still with Boras, this would seem in bad faith. As it is, it just doesn't make sense.
Look at the terrible starting pitching out there. He's absolutely going to get 3-4 years.
