Sun, Aug 5, 2018 at 6:20pm

NATS MOVE ON FROM KELLEY

The Oakland Athletics acquired pitcher Shawn Kelley and cash from the Washington Nationals for international bonus pool money in 2018-19.

What does it give the Oakland Athletics
Adding Kelley gives Oakland impressive bullpen depth here, as they attempt to land a playoff spot in improbable fashion this year. There is little questioning Kelley's ability to pitch. The A's also got Washington to pay some of Kelley's contract, which is an added bonus.

What does it give the Washington Nationals
The Nationals felt they had to get rid of Kelley, after the latter showed alleged disrespect towards the organization after entering a blowout loss and struggling on the mound. The team designated him for assignment, largely to set an example. The bonus money should help.

Fantasy impact
Kelley should find plenty of motivation after his reprieve here, as he is now pitching for a slightly better contender with a far greater bullpen. That said, his save chances in Oakland are non-existent behind both Blake Treinen and Jeurys Familia. So, his fantasy value is limited.