Nationals Sign Dan Haren
The Nationals have signed veteran starting pitcher Dan Haren. The 32 year old Haren was signed to a one year deal for $13 million dollars. A three-time All-Star, Haren was plagued with hip and back injuries last season while pitching for the Angels. In 2009, Haren was named #33 on The Sporting News list of the 50 greatest current players in baseball. Haren has a career record of 119-96 with a 3.66 ERA. Haren is known for having pinpoint control, with a strikeout to walk ratio of more than four to one, the best of any active pitcher in the majors. Haren completes what continues to be the best rotation in all of baseball, joining Stephen Strasburg, Gio Gonzalez, Jordan Zimmerman and Ross Detwiler.
The signing of Haren ends speculation that the Nationals might sign free agent picher Zack Grienke and turns their focus to the bullpen, specifically left handed specialists. Washington had also been rumored to be offering second baseman Danny Espinosa and Mike Morse to Tampa for pitcher James Shields. The addition of Haren ends speculation surrounding either Grienke or Shields joining the Nationals.
Washington is still negotiating with free agent first baseman Adam LaRoche. LaRoche is seeking a three year deal, while the Nats are only willing to commit to two seasons. If LaRoche goes elsewhere, the Nats will move outfielder Mike Morse back to first base.
