It seemed like the Nationals were done making offseason signings, but Paul Toboni had one last trick up his sleeve. The Nats have reportedly signed veteran Zack Littell to a one-year deal. This is the biggest addition to the Nats rotation, as Littell has proven to be a reliable middle of the rotation innings eater over the past couple years.
This signing really came out of the blue and is a pleasant surprise. Last season, Littell posted a 3.81 ERA in 186.2 innings with the Rays and the Reds. He is not flashy, but Littell has posted a 3.73 ERA in 61 starts over the last two seasons. That is better production than the Nats have gotten from MacKenzie Gore.
Littell has a deep mix, which the Nationals have targeted this offseason. He is also one of the best control artists in the league. Last season, Littell only walked 4.2% of hitters, which ranked in the 98th percentile. He does this by both pounding the zone and generating chase when he throws it out of the zone. That is a strong combination.
I am surprised it took the 30 year old so long to find a home. He has been really productive and reliable. Teams must have preferred guys with bigger stuff instead. That is their loss because I think Littell is a great addition to the rotation.
He also could prove to be a strong trade chip. Littell made a playoff start last year and has experience in the bullpen, so he could transition to that easily. The biggest weakness Littell has is a propensity to allow the long ball. He gave up 36 homers last year, but still managed to be effective.
Littell signed very late, so ramping him up could be a challenge. Hopefully he will be ready to go by Opening Day, but we will see how that plays out. If he picks up where he left off, Littell will be the Nats number two starter behind Cade Cavalli.
I thought the Nats rotation needed another proven arm, but I had given up on the idea. Paul Toboni made it happen and I think this is a great move. The financials of the deal are not out yet, but it is a one-year deal with a mutual option for a second season. I am excited for Littell to eat innings for breakfast this season in DC.