The Washington Nationals have found a new home for reliever Shawn Kelley. On Sunday, it was announced that Kelley was acquired by the Oakland Athletics.
#Athletics acquire RHP Shawn Kelley and cash from #Nationals in exchange for international slot money. To clear spot on 40-man roster, OF Jake Smolinski recalled from Triple-A Nashville and place on 60-day DL with a blood clot in left calf.
Details: https://t.co/28elAQK8CT pic.twitter.com/5ehPBQ8Mlr
— Oakland A's Communications (@AthleticsPR) August 5, 2018
Kelley was designated for assignment following Tuesday’s blowout win over the New York Mets. Despite the lopsided score, Kelley slammed his glove to the glove in anger while on the mound. That drew sharp criticism from general manager Mike Rizzo. Kelley expressed frustration with the umpires.
Kelley, 34, has a 3.34 ERA and a 0.96 WHIP on the year. In 35 appearances, he’s struck out 32 hitters over 32.1 innings.