Washington Nationals Release Left Hander Will Ohman

Bill Ladson of MLB.com reports that the Nationals have released left-handed pitcher Will Ohman.

February 15, 2013; Viera, FL, USA; Washington Nationals pitcher Will Ohman in action during spring training at Space Coast Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Barr-USA TODAY Sports

Ohman latched on with the Nationals on a minor league deal on February 11 in hopes of contending for an MLB roster spot. However, Ohman pitched in just one big league Spring Training game before being reassigned to minor league camp on March 4. Ohman walked two batters in his one appearance against the Cardinals this Spring. He did not have an opt-out clause in his contract, though it was reported earlier this week that the Nationals would grant him his release if he requested it.

With Ohman out of the picture, offseason acquisitions Bill Bray and Jeremy Accardo highlight the Nationals’ current left-handed pitching depth behind Zach Duke. It wouldn’t be surprising for Washington to bring in another lefty on a minor league deal to build depth at the position, or even pursue a trade for a more skilled pitcher that could contribute at large to the big league bullpen. I wrote earlier this week that the Nationals could look into pursuing Jonny Venters after reports that the Braves could potentially trade him, however such rumors have since been shot down.

As far as free agent options, former National JC Romero leads a very thin left-handed relief market at the moment. Washington could either bring him back, or go after a starter such as Dallas Braden and turn him into a reliever like they did with Zach Duke. The Nationals haven’t been directly linked to either player thus far, though both are logical fits on minor league deals.