Washington reportedly signed a former Red Sox All-Star
According to Mark Zuckerman of MASNsports.com, the Washington Nationals are allegedly signing former Red Sox All-Star Matt Barnes to a minor league contract following considerable conjecture about a potential transaction.
“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.
“After ten major league seasons, the 33-year-old right-hander has a 4.13 ERA, 1.355 WHIP, and 47 saves—his first nineteen of which were with the Red Sox…Prior to the 2023 season, Barnes was traded to the Marlins for left-hander Richard Bleier, who is also a member of the Nats camp on a minor league deal. Barnes labored to a 5.48 ERA in 24 games while missing a substantial amount of time due to a hip ailment. Officials from the club think he’s back to health and throwing without any problems.”
Barnes had been connected to the Nationals, and it appears that the team will provide him with his second chance. Prior to the 2023 season, Boston traded the righty to the Miami Marlins. In just 24 games, the pitcher recorded a 5.48 ERA and a 20–10 strikeout–to–walk ratio.
Hopefully, Barnes will be able to stay healthy and get back on track in 2024.
