The Oakland Athletics announced on Friday that they have traded catcher Kurt Suzuki to the Nationals for minor-league catcher David Freitas.
The move will add catching depth to a Nationals line up that consists of Jesus Flores and Sandy Leon.
Known for his defense rather than his bat. Suzuki is a solid backstop, and currently leads all qualified American League catchers in fielding percentage (.996), caught stealing (23) and caught-stealing percentage (38.3%).
Twice in the last three seasons, Suzuki has finished second in American League Gold Glove voting among catchers.
The 28-year old however, has dropped in offensive production in recent years, and was hitting just .218 with one homer and 18 RBIs this season in Oakland.
As a result of this deal being done after the Tuesday’s trade deadline, Suzuki had to clear waivers before being moved.
Meanwhile, 23-year old 23, was the Nationals 15th-round selection in the 2010 First-Year Player Draft. He was hitting .271 with Potomac of the Single-A Carolina League at the time of the trade.
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