They are going to make their push for Harper and see what happens, then figure Rendon out. I don't think it's an either/or. Zim comes off the books after this season for a 2 mill buyout. That's 18 million free. Rendon is already expensive in arbitration. Projected at like 17.5 mill.
Zimm ain't going nowhere.
He'll be a Nat for life. After his contract is up, if he can still play they'll sign him to a decent deal that doesn't embarrass him nor the team. Which is fitting for the Face of the Franchise...
I'm thinking a series of 1 year, $5 mill deals. Until he can't play anymore.