WASHINGTON — The Nationals have acquired infielder Yunel Escobar from the Oakland Athletics for All-Star reliever Tyler Clippard.
The teams announced the deal Wednesday.
The A’s picked up Escobar from Tampa Bay, along with Ben Zobrist, in a trade Saturday that sent catcher John Jaso and two minor leaguers to the Rays.
Escobar, an eight-year veteran, hit .258 with seven homers and 39 RBIs for Tampa Bay last season. He also has spent time with the Atlanta Braves and the Toronto Blue Jays, mostly at shortstop.
The Nationals have been looking for a starting second baseman, and Escobar started 20 games there in 2007. He could wind up at shortstop for Washington if it trades — or fails to agree to a new contract with — Ian Desmond.
The right-handed Clippard went 7-4 with a 2.18 ERA in 75 appearances in 2014.
Thumbnail photo via Kim Klement/USA TODAY Sports Images
