The Nationals signed second baseman Ronnie Belliard to a 2-year contract extension. It’s a good move by the Nats who brought in Belliard this year on a minor-league contract. He’s having a great year average-wise and will now be locked up till 2009.

According to ESPN, the contract calls for a $1.6 million salary in 2008 and $1.9 million in 2009. Would teams be interested in Belliard now that he’s signed till 2009 very cheaply? Not really; in fact…no. Second base is a position that can be filled quite easily. All this means is that the Mets probably have to look elsewhere for a replacement with Valentin out for the season.