The Washington Nationals shored up their bullpen by signing one of the best late-inning relievers in Rafael Soriano on Tuesday, according to an Associated Press report.
Soriano pitched for the New York Yankees for each of the last two seasons, opting out of his contract to enter the free agent market. He received a $1.5 million buyout instead of $14 million for the 2013 season. The righty will make $28 million for two seasons for the Nationals, with $14 million of it deferred.
Soriano has had two 40-plus save seasons, including last year for the Yankees. While filling in as the Bronx Bombers' closer for the injured Mariano Rivera, Soriano notched 42 saves-- matching Rivera's jersey number-- and recorded a 2.26 earned run average. He struck out 69 opposing batters in 67.2 innings, while walking 24 hitters.
Since 2006, Soriano has picked up more strikeouts than innings pitched three times, having a strikeout-to-walk ratio of 3-to-1 or better four times and an ERA at least 30 percent better than the league average on six occasions.
The righty reliever joins a bullpen with two pitchers that spent time as closer in 2012. Tyler Clippard averaged more than a strikeout per inning pitched and notched 32 saves. Drew Storen had a closing cameo in a quietly successful season, with three times as many strikeouts as walks and a 2.37 ERA.
The Nationals had a Major League best 98-64 record but fell three games to two in the National League Division Series.
In the walk year of his last contract, Soriano had a career season. His lone campaign with the Tampa Bay Rays featured a career low 1.73 ERA and a high of 45 saves.
Soriano made his Major League debut in 2002 and spent five seasons with the northwestern club. He has also pitched for the Atlanta Braves, Rays and Yankees.
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