Jim Ed

Warden

Just like last year, many of the most interesting minor league free agents are choosing to sign with the Nats, a team perceived to have a lot of potential openings. Shell, a former Angels prospect, definitely qualifies, though he’s turned in back-to-back disappointing seasons. Maybe he’ll find himself as a full-time reliever. However, because of the Nationals’ needs, he’ll probably be in the rotation at Triple-A Columbus initially. Brownlie, a one-time star at Rutgers and Cubs’ first-round pick, returned to the minors from indy ball last season and had a 3.17 ERA in 48 1/3 IP for Double-A Akron. Warden, another signing out of the Cleveland system, has a chance to contribute in middle relief right away.

Detwiler made his major league debut last September after being drafted sixth overall in June, but he wasn’t a candidate to win a spot now. Bacsik is the one member of this group that figured to have any chance. Still, the Nationals already know exactly what he can do and they feel the need to evaluate some of their younger pitchers.

The 6-foot-7 Warden had a 2.90 ERA and a 47/29 K/BB ratio in 57 innings as a reliever for Double-A Akron last season. At age 27, he’s nothing more than a future middle reliever and probably not even that. The Philles are unlikely to carry him.

The Indians recover both players they lost in the Rule 5 draft in Warden and Ryan Goleski. Warden gave up four runs in 6 1/3 innings this spring.

The Phillies have room to carry one of their Rule 5 relievers, but neither is making a strong impression so far. Warden has allowed four runs and walked three in 1 1/3 innings. the hard-throwing Simon has given up six runs and nine hits in three innings.

The Phillies have room to carry one of their Rule 5 relievers, but neither is making a strong impression so far. Warden has allowed four runs and walked three in 1 1/3 innings. the hard-throwing Simon has given up six runs and nine hits in three innings.