MLB Trade Rumors: 5 players to get the Washington Nationals back on track

4. David Hernandez

Every year, a handful of middle relievers move around at the deadline in deals that make you scratch your head and say, “Oh, that guy’s still in the league.” Most trades involving the sixth- and seventh-inning guys don’t generate much buzz in a sea of rumors involving much more high-profile players, but that does not mean these relievers are not important pieces for teams looking to load up for a playoff run.

The Nationals have seemingly found themselves trying to upgrade their bullpen at the trade deadline in each of their playoff seasons. Last year, they were able to acquire Sean Doolittle, Ryan Madson and Brandon Kintzler. Doolittle is the only one still pitching effectively. The Nationals already fired an early shot into the trade market by acquiring All-Star closer Kelvin Herrera from the Kansas City Royals, but he has allowed five hits and three runs in his first 6.2 innings of work with his new team.

Herrera is unlikely to be the only veteran reliever acquired by the Nats at the trade deadline, and there are a few candidates out there that should appeal to Mike Rizzo and the front office. Let’s start with Cincinnati Reds right-hander David Hernandez, who has a 1.80 ERA in 30 innings this season and is signed for 2019.

Hernandez has moved around quite a bit the past four seasons, pitching for four different teams. His best skill is keeping the ball in the yard, and the 33-year-old has not allowed a home run yet this season. Hernandez is a steady veteran, which exactly what a volatile bullpen needs for a stretch run.