The Washington Nationals were in dire need of bolstering their MLB-worst bullpen ahead of Wednesday’s trade deadline. After acquiring Daniel Hudson from the Blue Jays, the Nationals landed fellow relievers Roenis Elias and Hunter Strickland in two separate deals from the Seattle Mariners.
That’s the same Hunter Strickland that plunked Bryce Harper, leading to the then-Nationals superstar charging at Strickland, throwing his helmet and the two exchanging punches during a Memorial Day 2017 game between the Nationals and the San Francisco Giants.
Two years later, Harper is no longer with the Nationals, now a member of the Philadelphia Phillies and $330 million richer.
Meanwhile, Strickland landed in Seattle this season after parting ways from the Giants. However, he missed four months with a Grade 2 right lat strain. He returned to the field for a Jul. 28 outing.
With his tussle with Harper behind him, his reputation of being a hot head isn’t. But, the Nationals need help, desperately for a bullpen which ranks last in all of MLB in era. Strickland along with Elias will hopefully help change the narrative of their season.
Strickland has appeared in four games this season, collecting two saves allowing three runs. He has a career ERA of 2.98, which bodes well for the Washignton.
