Washington Nationals manager Davey Johnson told reporters in a pre-game press conference Monday the team could consider converting reliever Christian Garcia to a starting pitcher next season.
The 27-year-old Garcia has undergone Tommy John surgery twice in his career but, according to Johnson, his three quality pitches make him an ideal rotation candidate.
Garcia was drafted by the Yankees in the third round in 2004 but never reached the majors with them. He made his major-league debut on Sept. 4, 2012, and has pitched eight innings of relief with the Nationals, allowing three earned runs on seven hits (including two home runs) and two walks while striking out 11 batters.
Garcia pitched in both Double-A and Triple-A this season, saving 21 games while posting a 0.86 ERA, 0.92 WHIP and 66 strikeouts in 52 1/3 minor-league innings.
For more up-to-the-minute news and analysis on the latest rumors from bloggers Chris Cwik, Jack Moore and R.J. White, follow @MLBRumorsCBS.
