The Washington Nationals are taking a chance on a former Boston Red Sox All-Star.
After some speculation about a possible deal, the Washington Nationals reportedly are signing former Red Sox All-Star Matt Barnes to a minor league deal, according to MASNsports.com's Mark Zuckerman.
"Still searching for more experienced bullpen help, the Nationals have agreed to a minor league contract with former Red Sox closer Matt Barnes, according to a source familiar with the deal," Zuckerman said. "Barnes, who still needs to pass a physical before his signing is official, will become the latest veteran reliever to join the Nats’ major league camp on a non-guaranteed deal, hoping to seize one of a couple of open spots in the Opening Day bullpen.
"The 33-year-old right-hander owns a 4.13 ERA, 1.355 WHIP and 47 saves across 10 big league seasons, the first of those with the Red Sox...Traded to the Marlins for left-hander Richard Bleier (also in Nats camp on a minor league deal) prior to the 2023 season, Barnes missed significant time with a hip injury and struggled to a 5.48 ERA in 24 games. Club officials believe he’s healthy again and throwing with no issues."
Barnes had been linked to the Nationals and now it seems like he will be getting his next opportunity with the club. Boston traded the righty to the Miami Marlins ahead of the 2023 campaign and he appeared in just 24 games and had a 5.48 ERA and a 20-to-10 strikeout-to-walk ratio.
Hopefully, Barnes will be able to stay healthy and get back on track in 2024.
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