NATS GET IF ESCOBAR FOR RELIEVER CLIPPARD
The Washington Nationals acquired infielder Yunel Escobar from the Oakland Athletics for pitcher Tyler Clippard.
What does it give the Washington Nationals
In Escobar, the Nationals get a proven big-league shortstop who will most likely play second base in Washington. Escobar also provides some insurance in case the Nats are forced to trade current starting shortstop {P Ian Desmond}, a free agent following the 2015 campaign.
What does it give the Oakland Athletics
The A's recently acquired Escobar from Tampa Bay, but they decided to ship him off to D.C. immediately in exchange for quality setup man Clippard--who might receive more save opportunities in Oakland. With Escobar gone, shortstop should belong to {P Marcus Semien} in Oakland.
Fantasy impact
This deal could really help Clippard's fantasy value, since he's now the best right-hander available out of Oakland's bullpen. Lefties {P Sean Doolittle} and {P Eric O'Flaherty} may still be better ninth-inning options, but Clippard is certainly in the mix. Escobar's value remains weak, regardless of where he plays. The big fantasy losers here, though, are {P Danny Espinosa} and {P Kevin Frandsen}--who were expected to compete for the second base job in spring training. They are now both backups once more.
