Washington Nationals Bullpen Targets: Three Veteran Free Agents To Bolster MLB’s Worst Relief Corps

The Washington Nationals have been quiet in MLB free agency. They have not signed a major league free agent this offseason. The team’s bullpen was the worst in baseball last year. It remains a critical weakness heading into the new season.

This glaring need makes relief pitching the top priority for the front office. According to league analysts, targeting experienced veterans on short-term deals is a logical path. The Nationals have been linked to several available arms as they look for stability.

Seeking High-Leverage Experience For The Late Innings

The Nationals’ bullpen struggles were historic last season. They posted the highest ERA in the majors. Trading away Jose A. Ferrer has created a vacuum in high-leverage situations.

This makes a veteran addition essential. The right signing could provide innings and mentorship for a young pitching staff. Reports from sources like The Associated Press indicate the market for relievers still has value options available.

One clear target is right-hander Pierce Johnson. The Atlanta Braves declined his option after signing Robert Suarez. Johnson was spectacular in his tenure with Atlanta, posting a 2.91 ERA over 147 games.

He brings playoff experience and swing-and-miss stuff. Johnson could immediately slot into the ninth inning for Washington. His estimated cost is a one-year deal worth over $8 million.

Identifying Value In Buy-Low Candidates

Not every solution requires a large financial commitment. The Nationals can also look for rebound candidates. A pitcher with strong underlying metrics but poor recent results could offer great value.

Right-hander Ryne Stanek fits this description perfectly. His actual ERA ballooned above 5.00 over the last two seasons. However, his expected ERA metrics were significantly better, suggesting bad luck.

Stanek still possesses a powerful fastball and a winning pedigree. He won a World Series with the Houston Astros in 2022. A one-year “prove-it” deal worth around $4 million could benefit both sides.

A reunion with a familiar arm is another intriguing path. Hunter Harvey pitched very well for the Nationals from 2022 to 2024. Injuries derailed his last season after a trade to Kansas City.

If healthy, Harvey could reclaim his late-inning role in Washington. He previously posted an ERA under 3.00 for two straight seasons with the club. A cost-effective one-year contract makes sense for both parties.

Upgrading the bullpen is the Nationals’ most pressing offseason objective. Targeting veterans like Johnson, Stanek, or Harvey would directly address the team’s biggest weakness. A reliable relief corps is essential for any team hoping to climb the standings.

Info at your fingertips

Who is the best free agent reliever for the Nationals?

Pierce Johnson offers the most proven recent success. His consistent performance with the Braves makes him a reliable candidate for the ninth inning. He would be the most impactful immediate addition.

Why is Ryne Stanek a good target?

Stanek is a potential value signing. His underlying pitching data is better than his recent ERA suggests. He could be a low-cost, high-reward addition if the Nationals’ coaches help him reduce walks.

What is Hunter Harvey’s injury history?

Harvey missed significant time last season with two separate muscle strains. He pitched only 12 games for the Royals. Any team interested will require a thorough medical review before signing him.

How bad was the Nationals’ bullpen last year?

It was statistically the worst in Major League Baseball. The unit finished with the highest collective ERA. This performance highlighted the area as the team’s most urgent need for improvement.

When does spring training begin?

Pitchers and catchers are scheduled to report in mid-February. This gives the Nationals a few more weeks to make moves. The free agent market typically sees increased activity as camp nears.