Nats acquire C Kurt Suzuki
The Washington Nationals were in need of help behind the plate after starter Wilson Ramos went down a few months ago to a season ending knee injury. With the passing of the MLB trade deadline a few days ago, it looked as if the Nationals were going to stand pat behind the plate.
The Nats got some veteran presence to help out Jesus Flores today. The Nationals acquired Kurt Suzuki from the Oakland As for catching prospect David Freitas. Suzuki has played in 75 games with the As this season, batting .218 with 5 doubles and 12 home run. he has scored 19 runs and driven in 18 runs. The Nats acquired Suzuki for his defensive skills. This season, Suzuki gas a successful 39% throw out rate on runners stealing bases. He has allowed just 4 past balls.
Freitas was at Low A Hagerstown for the Nats where he batted .271 with 22 doubles and 5 home runs. Freitas was the 15th round draft pick in the 2010 MLB Draft by the Nats. Freitas was a decent prospect, but certainly one the Nats could afford to move, especially given the fact they drafted Spencer Kieboom high in the 2012 MLB Draft.
Suzuki is expected to join the Nationals tomorrow night in DC. His role is yet to be determined. Nats manager Davey Johnson referred to him as a "No.1 catcher". More than likely, Suzuki will take over every day duties from Flores. The corresponding roster move has yet to be made, but the most likely option will be to option Sandy Leon back to the minor leagues.
Suzuki is under contract through 2013 and an option for 2014.
