Nationals Announce They've Re-Signed Ryan Zimmerman Following Retirement Rumors

The world-champion Washington Nationals aren't letting Mr. National slip away just yet. On Tuesday, the organization announced that it had re-signed first baseman Ryan Zimmerman to a one-year contract for 2020.

Zimmerman battled through plantar fasciitis in his right foot in 2019 to put up a .257 batting average with nine doubles, six homers, 27 RBI, 17 walks and 20 runs scored in 52 games. The Nationals opted not to pick up his $18 million option in November, but were able to bring him back on a new, cheaper deal.

As the franchise's all-time leader in nearly every offensive statistic, Zimmerman achieved legend status among Nats fans after finally winning that elusive World Series in 2019. Zimmerman's clutch hitting has made him a fan favorite in the area for over a decade, and one who will now get to play with the validation of having a ring.

Zimmerman delivered one of the biggest home runs in franchise history last postseason, lifting a 3-run blast into deep center to ensure a Game 4 NLDS victory, and keep the Nats' season alive.

Off the field, Zimmerman then delivered a World Series parade speech that left fans in tears.

"I came here when I was 20 years old, right out of college. You guys hadn't had baseball in a long time. You were learning how to be fans again," Zimmerman said. "Thank you D.C., you guys have been great, you guys were behind us all the time ... I truly believe this is the greatest city to play sports in the world -- thank you."

Zimmerman always has DC's back, and vice versa. How does at least one more year sound?