The Washington Nationals made another move in advance of the non-waiver trade deadline on Friday and acquired Philadelphia Phillies’ veteran Howie Kendrick.
The Nats gave the Phillies minor league pitcher McKenzie Mills and international bonus pool money for Kendrick.
Kendrick has a .340 batting average with two home runs and 16 RBI in 39 games with the Phillies. Kendrick has spent time with the Los Angeles Angels and Dodgers during his 12-year career.
Kendrick, who is a two-time All-Star, is known for his versatility on the field as he has spent time at first base, second base, third base, and in the outfield.
Even though Kendrick provide help to the Nationals’ bench, the deal really came out of nowhere since their have been talks of the Nationals searching for another bullpen arm and a starting pitcher.
Complete trade: Howie Kendrick and cash to #Nationals. LHP McKenzie Mills and int’l amateur signing bonus pool space to #Phillies.
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) July 29, 2017
Welcome to DC, Howie Kendrick! https://t.co/IZGPFa9Moo pic.twitter.com/pgJjturxp7
— Washington Nationals (@Nationals) July 29, 2017
Howie Kendrick: advanced approach bat who can hit & get on base. Not sure of role when everybody is healthy but adds depth. Love it. #Nats
— Grant Paulsen (@granthpaulsen) July 29, 2017
Nats want to upgrade their right-handed options off the bench. Also gives them depth, a guy who can play INF/OF.
— Chelsea Janes (@chelsea_janes) July 29, 2017
Howie Kendrick leaving Phillies clubhouse for final time after getting traded to Nationals
— Jeff Skversky 6abc (@JeffSkversky) July 29, 2017
Details next on @6abc #phillies #HowieKendrick pic.twitter.com/LORd6LMpwc
Welcome to the #Nationals Howie Kendrick! Now we just need some more bullpen help.
— Vince C (@VClose13) July 29, 2017
I regret pointing and laughing at the Nationals trading for Howie Kendrick five minutes ago
— Ken Rosenfundies (@goodfundies) July 29, 2017
It's been a busy night in baseball as the Nationals have acquired Howie Kendrick from the Phillies and the Mets have acquired AJ Ramos.
— Sports 1140 KHTK (@Sports1140KHTK) July 29, 2017
The Phillies sent the Nats $3 million to help pay down Howie Kendrick's contract. They ended up with a solid return. https://t.co/r6uPfWBT3S
— Matt Breen (@matt_breen) July 29, 2017