The Washington Nationals arguably had the worst bullpen in the Majors in 2026.
It may have prevented the NL East club from clinching a postseason spot.
The Nationals set a Major League record with 42 blown saves, a record previously held by the Chicago White Sox, who blew 37 games in 2024.
While Washington’s offense appears to be in solid shape, the organization’s focus will likely be on adding quality relievers this offseason.
The Nationals made a bullpen addition on Friday, acquiring left-hander Reiver Sanmartin from the San Francisco Giants.
“The Washington Nationals are trading relief prospect Robert Cranz to the San Francisco Giants for lefty reliever Reiver Sanmartín, per source,” The Athletic’s Spencer Nusbaum wrote on X.
San Francisco designated Sanmartin for assignment earlier this week. The 30-year-old made 24 appearances this past season, posting a 4.22 ERA with 16 strikeouts and seven walks in 21.1 innings.
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Sanmartin is out of minor league options, so the Nationals will need to add him to the Opening Day roster. Otherwise, he’ll be DFA’d again.
He primarily throws a sinker that averages 91.7 mph, but his pitch mix also includes a changeup and slider.
Cranz is a former seventh-round draft pick by the Nationals in 2024 who allowed 17 earned runs on 15 hits in 11.2 innings at Triple-A Rochester.
