The Washington Nationals are exploring all options as they look to replace Anthony Rendon at third base.

Washington is still in on free-agent third baseman Josh Donaldson, who is expected to get at least four years and over $100 million in guaranteed money. However, the Nats are also considering a number of trade possibilities, like making a move to acquire Kris Bryant from the Chicago Cubs or Nolan Arenado from the Colorado Rockies, whose chances of getting dealt are rising.

But should the Nationals miss out on Donaldson and elect to go the trade route, they are showing reluctance when it comes to parting ways with center fielder Victor Robles:

Robles spent his first full season with the big-league club in 2019, slashing a respectable .255/.326/.419 with 17 homers and 28 stolen bases. Robles flashed some power at the dish, but teams are higher on him because of what he can do with the glove.

The 22-year-old ranked second among all players — and first among outfielders — in terms of defensive runs saved (22), according to FanGraphs. Robles ranked first in outfield assists and first in range factor per game (as an outfielder), according to Baseball-Reference. He is a wizard in center field.

Robles is also Washington's top prospect since Bryce Harper was coming up at the beginning of the 2010s, which might explain why the Nationals are so hesitant to deal him away. Washington is stretched for talent in its farm, and it might not make sense to deal away such a rising star.

Nevertheless, Robles would almost certainly have to be involved in any trade with the Cubs or Rockies, two teams starving for better quality in center field. These two teams aren't just going to give their stars away for nothing, so the Nationals would likely have to bite the bullet if they want to make a blockbuster deal.