MLB trade rumors: Nationals want Sean Doolittle

The Washington Nationals have been linked to multiple relief pitchers in the last few weeks, but a deal with the Oakland Athletics could be coming.

It’s been no secret that the Washington Nationals’ bullpen has immensely struggled this season. They have not been able to find a consistent option to close out games for them, as they have had seven different relievers record a save for them. Fortunately for them they have been rather successful as a team, but they will need to address this situation sooner rather than later.

Koda Glover seemed to finally be taking over the closer role in late May, but suffered back and shoulder injuries in early June that have sidelined him ever since. The Nationals interest in numerous relievers has intensified the last few weeks, and we can now add two more to that ever growing list. Washington is reportedly looking into acquiring relievers Sean Doolittle and Ryan Madson from the Oakland Athletics.

Doolittle has battled injuries the last few seasons, but has put up a solid 3.38 ERA with 31 strikeouts in 21.1 innings this season. Madson has been just as good, if not better this season with a 2.06 ERA and 39 strikeouts in 39.1 innings. Both pitchers have closing experience as well, and would be major upgrades to a Washington bullpen that hasn’t found consistency in the closer role all season.

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Doolittle has multiple years left on his contract, at affordable rates each season too. Madson is also relatively cheap for the production he’s been putting up, and also has another season before he becomes a free agent in 2019. The Athletics would stand to get a good return for them if they are dealt. It’s a bit surprising that the Nationals haven’t addressed the situation yet, but it’s only a matter of time before a move is made.