VIERA, Fla. -- Prior to the first workout for Nationals pitchers and catchers Saturday, the team announced it has exercised the 2016 club option on manager Matt Williams."It shows the great confidence we have in Matt to continue to lead this team on the field," general manager Mike Rizzo said in a statement. "During his rookie season, he helped us navigate through injuries and led us to our second NL East Division title in three years. His leadership has earned him the respect of our players, coaches and his colleagues around the league." 
Consider this a reward for Williams' stellar first season as a manager. With 96 wins the Nationals finished with the best record in the National League last season, cruising to their second division title in franchise history by a Major League-best 17 games. Williams also earned the NL Manager of the Year Award from both the BBWAA and the Sporting News.Williams has a second option on his contract available for 2017, but for now Washington has entrusted to Williams, 49, a team that is one of the favorites to win the NL pennant this season and perhaps for years to come."Matt's accomplishments on the field speak for themselves," said managing principal owner Theodore N. Lerner. "He takes great pride not only in how the game is played, but in our players. We are fortunate to have Matt as our manager and look forward to him leading us to new heights."
Jamal Collier/ MLB.com
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