Rumor: Nationals Interested In Bringing Back Komatsu?

Amanda Comak of the Washington Times reports that the Nationals might be interested in bringing back outfielder Erik Komatsu. Komatsu was designated for assignment by the Minnesota Twins this morning.

Komatsu was originally acquired by the Nationals in the trade that sent Nyjer Morgan to the Brewers. He was then selected in this year’s Rule 5 Draft by the St. Louis Cardinals, and then claimed by the Twins on May 4. A career .302 hitter in 4 minor-league seasons, Komatsu hit just .212 in 30 big league games with the Cardinals and Twins this season.

Comak’s suggestion makes sense, as the Nationals are currently at a shortage of outfielders with injuries to Michael Morse and Jayson Werth. Komatsu, who has 57 career minor league stolen bases, could be a nice speed option off the bench for manager Davey Johnson, and could also be used as a defensive replacement for Tyler Moore or Xavier Nady. Seeing as he was DFA’d, the price should not be too hefty, and the move could be worth looking into for Mike Rizzo.