Nats reacquire Burnett, could use lefty in bullpen for stretch run

ATLANTA - The Nationals have reacquired Sean Burnett and could give the veteran left-hander a chance to pitch out of their bullpen down the stretch, four years after he last donned a curly W cap for a big league game.

Burnett has been acquired in a trade with the Twins for cash considerations and will report to Triple-A Syracuse today, the Chiefs announced, but he could be in line to join the major league bullpen once rosters expand in September.

A key member of the Nationals bullpen from 2009-12, Burnett has barely pitched in the big leagues since due to arm injuries that included the second Tommy John surgery of his career. He pitched for the Nationals this spring and impressed in camp but was among the last players cut amid concerns by some club officials his arm wouldn't hold up over the long haul.

Burnett, 33, has since pitched for three different organizations (the Dodgers, Braves and Twins) at the Triple-A level, posting a combined 1.91 ERA and 1.063 WHIP in 42 games.

The Nationals find themselves in need of veteran left-handed relievers for the stretch run. Oliver Perez, who signed a two-year deal over the winter, has struggled and currently owns a 5.61 ERA and 1.485 WHIP in 52 appearances. Felipe Rivero was traded to the Pirates in the deal that brought Mark Melancon to the Nationals. And Sammy Solis, who impressed in his first extended opportunity as a big league reliever, recently landed on the disabled list with a shoulder injury for the second time this season.

Burnett is still on a minor league contract and thus would need to be added to the Nationals' 40-man roster before he is promoted to the majors. He'll be eligible for free agency at season's end.