GM Mike Rizzo has lastly determined to bolster a weakened bullpen by signing veteran Jorge Lopez to a one-year deal. The deal is price $3 million. After non-tendering Kyle Finnegan, and buying and selling Robert Garcia, the bullpen was an apparent space the Nats wanted to assault.
Lopez has been an efficient reliever, posting sub-3 ERA’s in two of the final three seasons. He additionally brings closing expertise, saving 23 video games in 2022. Lopez began final season with the Mets, earlier than being reduce after an explosive clubhouse rant.
Nevertheless, the 31 12 months previous was implausible after being picked up by the Cubs. He posted a 2.03 ERA, and noticed his Okay/9 leap from 6.5 with the Mets to 10.5 with the Cubs. Armed with a heavy sinker, Lopez can also be a floor ball specialist, with a 51.4 GB% final season.
Lopez figures to be within the combine for some closing alternatives. Nevertheless, the Nationals nonetheless have to do extra to improve the bullpen. They want a minimum of another confirmed massive league choice to fill out what has turn into a skinny bullpen. Lopez is a step in the suitable path, particularly if he’s at his greatest.
Amos Willingham was designated for task to make room for Lopez on the 40 man roster.
