Sam

Freeman

Freeman appeared in just eight games over the last two seasons while recovering from Tommy John surgery -- seven of those with the Nationals last year -- but when healthy, he’s been a solid option with a 3.58 ERA over 271 career games. He stands a good chance of making the Royals if he shows quality stuff in the Cactus League.

Freeman cleared outright waivers before opting to explore the open market. The 33-year-old underwent Tommy John surgery a few weeks ago and will likely miss the entire 2021 season.

It’s the second time that Freeman has had the procedure done. Martinez noted that his recovery is going well. He’s expected to miss most of -- if not all -- of the 2021 season while recovering.

Freeman suffered the forearm/elbow injury during a relief appearance Wednesday night against the Mets and could be in danger of missing the remainder of the 60-game 2020 regular season.

He will undergo an MRI on Friday, at which point the Nationals will have a clearer picture of Freeman’s status. The left-hander said he felt a “pop” in his elbow when he delivered a pitch Wednesday. Freeman had Tommy John surgery back in 2010.

Freeman delivered a pitch and immediately motioned for the trainer to come out. The Nationals should offer an update on the reliever shortly.

Freeman spent the majority of the 2019 season with the Triple-A affiliate of the Angels, where he posted an ugly 7.01 ERA in 52 2/3 innings of work. He’ll be a low-leverage lefty reliever for the Nats.

He’s been assigned to Triple-A Fresno. Freeman was released by the Angels on Monday after posting a 7.01 ERA in the PCL. The 32-year-old has a 3.62 ERA in the majors in eight partial major league seasons, but his inability to throw strikes has made a return to the big leagues very unlikely at this time.

Freeman has spent nearly all of the season at Triple-A Salt Lake, posting a 7.01 ERA over 35 appearances. The 32-year-old holds a career 3.62 ERA with a strikeout per inning over parts of eight major league seasons but has been held back by control problems.

Freeman’s stay with the big league club lasted only one day as they continue to churn bullpen options. He’ll likely pass through waivers and continue to provide depth at Triple-A.