Joe Blanton

Joe Blanton signing with Nationals

The Washington Nationals have signed reliever Joe Blanton to a one-year contract, reports Jorge Castillo of the Washington Post.

What It Means:

Blanton didn't see much interest on the open market despite putting together a strong 2016 campaign. He'll likely serve a set-up role for the Nationals.

Blanton registered a 2.48 ERA (4.15 xFIP), 25.4 percent strikeout rate and 8.3 percent walk rate across 80 innings last season with the Los Angeles Dodgers.