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Nats miss out on bid for reliever O'Day

WASHINGTON -- Right-hander Darren O'Day has decided to re-sign with the Orioles, pending a physical, a baseball source confirmed to MLB.com. In a tweet, however, O'Day said the deal is not yet done.

The Nationals will continue to search for a set-up man and other relievers.

Tweet from @DODay56: Contrary to the news, I have not reached an agreement with the O's yet. I am flattered by all the attention, but reports are premature.

O'Day is getting a reported four-year deal worth $31 million, though the Orioles have not confirmed the deal. It appears the Nationals were unwilling to give O'Day a fourth year. During the Mike Rizzo era, the Nationals have been reluctant to give long-term deals to relievers. The most they have given was a two-year deal to Rafael Soriano after the 2012 season.

O'Day isn't the only type of player the Nationals need. The Nationals need everything from a closer to middle relievers. During the second half of the 2015 season, they had a tough time getting to closer Jonathan Papelbon in the ninth inning because setup men, such as Casey Janssen and Drew Storen, were getting roughed up.

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The Nationals made strides on Friday to improve their bullpen by signing Oliver Perez to a two-year deal. Perez and Felipe Rivero will be the lefties in the Washington bullpen.

Washington is interested in Reds closer Aroldis Chapman, but Rizzo knows that he has to give up plenty to get the lefty. You can bet Cincinnati would want prospects, such as right-hander Lucas Giolito and outfielder Victor Robles, to be part of the deal.

Bill Ladson is a reporter for MLB.com and writes an MLBlog, All Nats All the time. He also could be found on Twitter @WashinNats.
Read More: Washington Nationals, Darren O'Day