McLouth deal official, Corey Brown DFA

By Pete Kerzel

Nationals

December 12, 2013, 10:34am

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ORLANDO, Fla. - Greetings from Orlando International Airport, where I've just arrived through the security checkpoint to news that the Nationals' deal with outfielder Nate McLouth is official. That means McLouth passed his physical and that his $10.75 million deal is official. The Nationals envision the veteran, a former All-Star and Gold Glove winner, as a perfect fourth outfielder, since he's able to play all positions, is a plus defender and adds a dimension of speed to the bench. In order to make room for McLouth on the 40-man roster, the Nats designated outfielder Corey Brown for assignment. Brown hit .254 with 19 home runs, 56 RBI, 12 stolen bases and 57 runs scored for Triple-A Syracuse this season. He appeared in 14 September games for the Nationals, hitting .167 (2-for-12) with one double, one homer and one RBI. Brown was acquired by the Nats along with right-hander Henry Rodriguez in the trade that sent Josh Willingham to the Athletics. With McLouth's signing, Brown was all but boxed out of a roster spot.