Nationals GM Jim Bowden announced tonight that he would tender contracts to his remaining arbitration-eligible players.
Tony Armas Jr. and Tomo Ohka apparently will be back to join Livan Hernandez and Zach Day in the rotation. The Nationals would be fine letting Jon Rauch and John Patterson battle for the fifth spot, but they still hope to bring in another pitcher
Padres acquired outfielder Dave Roberts from the Red Sox for outfielder Jay Payton, infielder Ramon Vazquez, RHP David Pauley and $2.65 million.
Who thought Dave Roberts would even net three players and cash? The Padres will make him their center fielder and leadoff hitter against right-handers. Eric Young likely will start in his place against lefties. Roberts will probably get a chance to steal more than 40 bases next year, making him a potential $20 fantasy outfielder
Orioles re-signed first baseman-outfielder Jay Gibbons to a one-year, $2.6 million contract.
Gibbons agreed to accept the same salary he earned last year, although he can earn an additional $300,000 in incentives. He should start either in right field or at first base. The Orioles could bring in someone to platoon with him