Nationals sign another former Reds player in weird offseason trend

When the Cincinnati Reds have an off day during the 2024 season, or are on that dreaded West Coast road trip, perhaps you could make some time in your bust schedule to tune into to some Washington Nationals games this season. After all, you'll recognize several players on the roster.

The Nats signed Nick Senzel earlier this offseason after his non-tendered by the Reds. Senzel was drafted by Cincinnati back in 2016, but after years of subpar performances, the Redlegs decided to cut bait with their former top prospect.

Another former first-round pick is suiting up in D.C. as well this spring. Jesse Winker recently signed a minor-league deal with the Nationals and will be looking to latch on to Washington's Opening Day roster ahead of their March 28th date with the Reds. But the Nats added another former Reds player to their squad earlier this week after coming to terms with pitcher Derek Law.

Nationals sign former Reds player, Derek Law, in weird offseason trend

According to FanSided's Robert Murray, Law agreed to a minor-league contract with the Nationals that includes an invite to spring training. The deal will reportedly pay $1.5 million and includes various incentives and opts outs.

Law was an important part of a Reds' bullpen that overachieved in 2023. Law, like Senzel, was non-tendered earlier this offseason. It was a bit surprising that the right-hander was not retained after giving manager David Bell 55 innings a season ago.

The right-hander made 54 appearances, including three starts. Law also recorded two saves last season. Instead, the Cincinnati Reds will look to Emilio Pagán, Buck Farmer, and perhaps even newly-signed left-hander Brent Suter to fill the role that Law occupied for the past two seasons in Cincinnati.

If Law breaks camp with the Nats, Reds fans may see the veteran back on the bump at Great American Ball Park on Opening Day when Washington comes to visit. During his Reds career, Law posted a 3.72 ERA and recorded 60 strikeouts with a 122 ERA+ in 69 appearances.