By Anthony Caruso III | Publisher
Free agent Matt Adams is returning to the Washington Nationals. He is signing a one-year deal with the team worth $ 4 million.
There is also an option for the 2020 season. He is expected to split time with Ryan Zimmerman at first base in 2019.
“I’m kind of at a loss for words just because I’m excited for this opportunity,” Adams said. “The team is definitely better than it was last year with the acquisitions that Rizz [General Manager Mike Rizzo] has made so far this offseason, and I don’t think that we’re done yet, either. It’s an exciting time for fans and we’re excited to get things rolling in 2019.”
Adams was first claimed off of waivers by the Cardinals in August. Then, Rizzo traded Adams to the St. Louis Cardinals for $50,000.
Adams is the latest addition to the team. The Nationals signed pitcher Patrick Corbin to a six-year, $140 million deal.
The team also acquired Yan Gomes in a trade with the Cleveland Indians. The Nationals also re-signed catcher Kurt Suzuki.
The team is also being mentioned as a candidate to re-sign Bryce Harper. On the final day of the regular season, Harper turned down a 10-year, $300 million deal.
“If the opportunity is there for him to come back and he comes back, I think it’s going to be amazing,” Adams said. “I think everybody on that team would love to Bryce back in right field (because of) what he brings to the table and just how he goes out there and plays the game. He’s passionate.”
The 30-year-old Philipsburg, Pennsylvania native had a .257 batting average with the Nationals in 2018. He also had 18 home runs and 48 RBIs in 94 games. Adams also scored 37 runs and hit nine doubles in 64 hits.
After being acquired by the Cardinals, he had a .158 batting average in 27 games. He also had three home runs and nine RBIs, while scoring five runs on nine hits.
Besides playing for Cardinals and Nationals, he also played for the Atlanta Braves.
