Guerra returning to Nationals on minor league deal

SAN DIEGO - It's not nearly as big a deal as the others they've given out so far this winter, but the Nationals did make sure they're bringing back yet another member of their World Series roster who could have been headed elsewhere.

The Nats agreed to terms with reliever Javy Guerra on a minor league contract for 2020 late Monday night, according to a source familiar with the signing. The deal would pay the veteran right-hander $1 million if he makes the opening day roster, with more money available via performance bonuses.

Guerra, who appeared in 40 regular season games and then two World Series games for the Nationals, had been non-tendered last week, making him a free agent. The 34-year-old would've been due a raise via arbitration and stood to make a guaranteed $1.3 million or so next season.

Though they cut him loose, the Nationals immediately expressed interest in bringing Guerra back on a lesser deal, and the interest was mutual, resulting in Monday night's agreement.

Originally acquired in May after making 11 appearances for the Blue Jays, Guerra was a versatile and popular member of a Nats bullpen that needed all the help it could get during a tumultuous season. He finished with a 4.86 ERA and 1.248 WHIP in 40 games for Washington.

Guerra actually was designated for assignment by the Nationals on July 31 when the club needed to clear roster spots for trade deadline acquisitions Daniel Hudson, Hunter Strickland and Roenis Elías. But he was re-signed only three days later after Elías strained his hamstring in his club debut, and he remained on the active roster the rest of the way.

Guerra becomes the fourth member of this season's roster to re-sign with the Nationals after becoming a free agent, joining Stephen Strasburg, Howie Kendrick and Yan Gomes. So far, Gerardo Parra (who got a $2 million deal to play in Japan) is the only free agent from the World Series roster who has signed elsewhere.

The Athletic was first to report Guerra's new deal.