Nationals expected to decline Rafael Soriano's option

The Washington Nationals appear to be ready to cut ties with former closer Rafael Soriano, as the Washington Post's James Wagner reports that the club is expected to decline the 34-year-old's option for 2015. Soriano has served as Washington's closer over the past two seasons prior to losing the job to Drew Storen this September. Storen is expected to take over the ninth inning gig full-time for the Nationals with the departure of Soriano.

Before a late season collapse, Soriano had began the season on a tear, posting a 0.97 ERA in the first half. He ultimately finished with a 3.19 ERA, 3.08 FIP, 8.6 K/9, 2.8 BB/9, and 32 saves in 62 innings pitched.

The former Mariners, Rays, Braves, and Yankees pitcher signed with the Nationals prior to the 2013 season on a rather expensive two-year, $28 million deal that included a $14 million option for 2015 that would vest if he were to finish 120 games over the course of 2013 and 2014. He finished 106.

Overall, Soriano had a productive two years with the Nationals. In 128.2 total innings, he posted a 3.15 ERA, 121 ERA+, 3.38 FIP, 3.06 K/BB, and 1.7 WAR.