The Nationals have improved over the winter, but they still might have a big move or two left before spring training begins. They are after B.J. Upton and Prince Fielder….and if they get both of them….they are going to compete for a playoff spot in 2012. Here is a look at the players the Nationals have brought in so far this winter:

In the field: The Nationals have focused on improving the bench over the winter and they have certainly done that. Mike Cameron and Mark DeRosa are virtual locks to make the Nationals’ opening day roster if they can stay healthy. Xavier Paul, Jason Michaels and Brett Carroll will be duking it out for a backup outfield spot on the Nationals this spring. 2B/SS Andres Blanco stands a decent shot of earning a job on the Nationals’ bench this spring.

On the mound: The Nationals not only dealt for lefty starting pitcher Gio Gonzalez, but they quickly locked him up to a 5-year contract extension. He will be at the top of the Nationals’ rotation in 2012 and beyond. Righty relievers Ryan Perry, Wladis Joaquin, Jeff Fulchino and Dan Cortes will battle for bullpen jobs this spring.

Overall: The Nationals have improved the roster so far this winter, but they still have work to be done before spring training begins next month.

The Nationals have re-signed 28-year old righty reliever Jimmy Barthmaier to a minor league deal. Barthmaier pitched in 39 games (2 starts) in AAA-ball last year and he was 5-3 with 1 save, a 5.05 ERA and a 1.55 WHIP. Barthmaier’s only major league experience came back in 2008 with the Pirates. He pitched in 3 games (all starts) for the Pirates in 2008 and he was 0-2 with a 10.45 ERA and a 2.32 WHIP. He will be a longshot to pitch for the Nationals in 2012 as they will likely stash him in AAA.