Washington Nationals: How Does Mike Gonzalez Fit into the Bullpen Picture?

Mike Gonzalez has signed a contract with the Washington Nationals. Gonzalez has been a solid pitcher throughout his career, so it isn't necessarily surprising that he finally found a home for 2012.

However, it is rather surprising that he is joining the Nationals.

The Washington Nationals already have a very capable left-handed specialist in Sean Burnett sitting in their bullpen.

Since he joined the team in 2009, Burnett has posted a very nice 2.83 cumulative ERA.

He hasn't necessarily been a strikeout pitcher throughout his career, but he has ultimately been successful by still getting outs and not allowing runs to cross the plate.

So far in 2012, he has appeared in 10 games without surrendering a run and struck out 10 batters in 7.2 innings. He is only 29 years old, and his numbers should only continue to improve as he enters what traditionally should be his prime.

Burnett is doing well, so it is rather interesting that the Nationals are trying to bring in another player who essentially fills a similar role.

Are they simply trying to add depth as they try to remain on top of the National League East? Are they worried about the ultimate return of Drew Storen or Brad Lidge and want to have another backup closer?

If the second question was true, it would fly somewhat in the face of what general manager Mike Rizzo told Adam Kilgore the Washington Post just over a week ago.

"

"With the guys that we have that are coming back, we’re not making a push to look outside ourselves for offense or bullpen," Rizzo said.

"We’re satisfied. We like the club that we have. We just need to get healthy. In the meantime, we need to continue to play good baseball and execute better offensively.”

"

Therefore, the first question is probably the right one to be asking, since Gonzalez will also probably need some time in the minor leagues to regain his sharpness. He most likely won't be able to fill these immediate holes.

There is the old adage that pitching wins championships. It seems as if the Washington Nationals are taking that to heart by adding more depth.

Gonzalez will ultimately become a veteran presence on a very young team that is attempting to make a serious postseason run. In that sense, this move makes quite a bit of sense.

He pitched throughout the postseason with the Texas Rangers last year, so he knows what it is like to play in those high-pressure situations.

You probably won't be seeing Mike Gonzalez in Washington, D.C. immediately, but if he is able to regain the edge that he had with the Atlanta Braves, he will be a very valuable asset for the rest of the season and potentially the postseason.

Whether you think I know everything or nothing about Major League Baseball, you should follow me on Twitter or become a fan on Facebook and keep in touch. I love hearing what you all have to say!

Follow @spinkickers