Trade: Washington takes a chance on Dukes

Troubled prospect Elijah Dukes was not going to see any playing time with Tampa Bay; he had disillusioned the management with numerous rule infractions, attitude problems, etc. Despite that, the 24-year old’s physical gifts are significant, and the Nationals’ Jim Bowden took a chance on that. The switch-hitting Dukes holds a .284/.364/.454 batting line in four minor league seasons. They are hoping that he can become their centerfielder of the future. Dukes will have a chance to make the team this spring, so keep an eye on what the change in scenery does for him.

Returning to Tampa Bay in the deal was 20-year old lefty Glenn Gibson, who put up some gaudy KO/BB numbers last year at low-A Vermont.