Report: Nationals in contact with Blue Jays about Giles, Hudson
With MLB’s July 31 trade deadline fast approaching, the rumours continue to fly as teams look to better position themselves for the stretch run, or turn their attention to the future.
The playoff-hopeful Washington Nationals are one of the clubs focused on winning now, and are showing interest in Toronto Blue Jays relievers Ken Giles and Daniel Hudson, according to MLB Network’s Jon Morosi.
Despite the loss of Bryce Harper in the off-season, Washington is firmly in the post-season picture, sitting in a three-way tie for the National League’s two wild-card spots and 4.5 games back of the Atlanta Braves in the NL East. The Nationals’ biggest weakness has been their bullpen, which collectively owns an MLB-worst 5.84 ERA.
Giles would immediately help shore up Washington’s relief corps, and would slide into a high-leverage role alongside closer Sean Doolittle. The 28-year-old has put together a career year for the Blue Jays, pitching to a 1.59 ERA (1.55 FIP) with 14 saves and an absurd 15.4 K/9 rate in 34 games.
Hudson has also been incredible for Toronto this season, owning a 2.80 ERA in his 42 appearances. The 32-year-old has surrendered just three total runs in all of June and July to bolster his trade value.
With relief pitching becoming exceedingly valuable and MLB moving to a single trade deadline, the market for Giles and Hudson should be competitive. The Boston Red Sox have been linked to both right-handers, and any club seeking reinforcements for the bullpen should be giving Blue Jays general manager Ross Atkins a call.
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