WEST PALM BEACH, FL - The Washington Nationals have announced that they have signed free agent right-handed reliever Lucas Sims. Sims, who pitched for the Boston Red Sox and the Cincinnati Reds last season, finished the year with a 4.38 ERA and a 1-6 record over 49.1 innings. He struck out 49 batters and had a 1.44 WHIP. The Reds traded Sims to the Red Sox on July 30, 2024, in exchange for minor league pitcher Ovis Portes.

It was reported today that Sims’ was already down in West Palm Beach before the team made the announcement.

During his first Spring Training press conference, Nationals manager Dave Martinez expressed the need for bullpen support. "But we are definitely looking for someone who could pitch the back end of the bullpen," Martinez said. With the signing of Sims, it appears Martinez may have found another arm to bolster the team's relief pitching.

In a corresponding move, the Washington Nationals have placed and transferred Mason Thompson to the 60-day Injured List

News of the signing broke two days ago by Chris Cotillo, Boston Red Sox Beat reporter for MassLive.com.