Nats ink Rafael Soriano
The Washington Nationals have agreed to a two year, $28 million deal with reliever Rafael Soriano. The deal apparently provides for an option for 2015 if innings requirements over the first two years of the deal are met.
Soriano assumed the closer role for the New York Yankees last season after Mariano Riviera was placed on the disabled list with a season ending knee injury. He appeared in 69 games and posted a 2-1 record with 42 saves and a 2.26 ERA. In 67.2 innings out of the Yanks bullpen, Soriano allowed 24 walks while fanning 69 batters. He recorded a 1.16 WHIP. Soriano recorded 45 saves in 2010 as the closer for Tampa Bay.
In acquiring Soriano, the Nats have forfeited the 29th overall pick in the 2013 MLB Draft.
Apparently, according to the MLB Trade Rumors report, Nats owner Ted Lerner was 'heavily involved' in signing Soriano. Lerner watch the Nationals bullpen meltdown with a 6 run lead to end their post-season run.
The signing of Soriano will likely bring about speculation of whether the Nationals will keep both Drew Storen and Tyler Clippard or deal one of them.
