Nationals, Bronson Arroyo agree to minor league deal
The Washington Nationals have signed pitcher Bronson Arroyo to a minor league deal
The Washington Nationals have been busy this offseason as they try to increase their rotation depth after the losses of Jordan Zimmermann and Doug Fister. They have increased their rotation depth by signing starting pitcher Bronson Arroyo to a minor league deal.
The #Nats have agreed to terms with RHP Bronson Arroyo on a Minor League contract with an invitation to Major League Spring Training.
— Washington Nationals (@Nationals) January 27, 2016
Arroyo should serve as a long reliever or a starting pitcher for the Nationals. It’s a minor league deal so the Nationals pretty much have nothing to lose even if Arroyo doesn’t pan out.
From Sports Illustrated:
"Arroyo did not pitch last season as he recovered from Tommy John surgery. He most recently played for the Arizona Diamondbacks in 2014, making 14 starts. Arroyo was 7–4 with a 4.08 ERA with the Diamondbacks. Before joining Arizona, Arroyo spent eight seasons with the Reds. He has also pitched for the Pittsburgh Pirates and Boston Red Sox. In his career, Arroyo has made 369 starts, compiling a 145–131 record with 1,526 strikeouts and a 4.19 ERA."
Bronson Arroyo is usually reliable to throw a ton of innings so he could be of use to the Nationals. He should help their young pitchers as well since Arroyo has survived in the majors despite not having the best velocity. Arroyo is familiar with new Nationals manager Dusty Baker, which might have played a role in Arroyo’s decision. Arroyo played for Baker from 2008 to 2013 with the Cincinnati Reds.
Arroyo is projected to challenge Tanner Roark for the fifth starter spot with the loser likely heading to the bullpen or the minors.