Washington Nationals deal reliever Abad

The offseason isn’t a time for relaxation for the Washington Nationals, as management once again decided to make a trade with their friends across the country, the Oakland Athletics.  Washington has a lengthy trade history with Oakland, and once again came to terms, Monday, to deal reliever Fernando Abad to Oakland for minor leaguer John Wooten.

Sep 13, 2013; Washington, DC, USA; Washington Nationals relief pitcher Fernando Abad (58) throws during the seventh inning against the Philadelphia Phillies at Nationals Park. Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports

Abad had well documented struggles with Washington in 2013 and was even designated for assignment this past week.  The former Houston Astro went 0-3 with a 3.35 ERA in his one season as a National and will be expected to bolster a rather thin Oakland bullpen.  Washington, on the other hand, will receive a first baseman that hit 20 home runs and batted .257 while playing for Class-A Beloit.  Wooten was selected in the 37^th round of the 2012 draft out of East Carolina and has performed well in the Athletics minor league system.