WASHINGTON -- The Nationals reportedly signed veteran right-hander Mat Latos to a Minor League deal Wednesday, in order to boost starting pitching depth throughout their organization.
Although the club has not officially confirmed the deal -- which is pending a physical and was first reported by 670 The Score -- Nationals manager Dusty Baker confirmed the signing during his meeting with the news media prior to Wednesday's game against the Mets. Latos is expected to report to Triple-A Syracuse upon the completion of a physical.
"Gives us some depth in case something happens to someone," Baker said. "Or, if nothing else, September's right around the corner. I think Mat's trying to get in the best shape possible first. He's got to get into tip-top shape, which I asked him to do over the winter when I was talking to him about possibly signing then."
Baker tried to recruit Latos to the Nationals during this offseason in an effort to increase their starting pitching depth. Latos ultimately signed with White Sox and began the season strong, sporting a 0.74 ERA through his first four starts. But his quickly spiraled and posted a 7.25 ERA over his final seven outings before he was designated for assignment and released by Chicago earlier this month. This marks his seventh organization in eight seasons in the Majors.
Latos pitched for Baker while he was manager of the Reds from 2012-14, which is why Baker said the organization asked him about Latos before making the signing. Baker cited Latos' age, 28, and track record with him in Cincinnati as reasons that perhaps Chicago had released him prematurely.
"I know there's more in there. And he's not old," Baker said. "And he's not hurt anymore. So there's more in there, and I've seen it."