Nationals, Wang Finalize Deal

We learned just a few days ago that the Nationals and Chien-Ming Wang were nearing a deal for 2012. Now, we have details on a finalized contract.

As of Friday evening the deal was still pending a physical – which likely won’t take place until late this coming week at the earliest due to Wang’s involvement pitching in the MLB All Stars Taiwan Series. Adam Kilgore of the Washington Post reports that it will be a one-year contract, worth $4 Million plus incentives. The specifics of those incentives have yet to be reported though one could made a reasonable assumption that they could be tied to starts and/or innings – rewarding Wang for remaining healthy and remaining in the rotation throughout the season.

Ben Goessling of MASN.com also reported some highlights from GM Mike Rizzo’s press conference to announce the deal. The team discussed an option for 2013 with Wang’s agent, but ultimately the sides agreed to forgo the idea to allow the right-hander the opportunity to reach free agency again after a full healthy season. Rizzo also mentioned that Wang will not face an innings limit during the 2012 season and the signing will not necessarily keep the team from making any additional moves with regards to the starting rotation.