Via a report from Ken Rosenthal of Fox Sports, Rick Ankiel has been designated for assignment by the Washington Nationals so the team can make room for pitcher Drew Storen who has been on the disabled list for the entire 2012 season so far.
Storen, the Nationals closer in 2011, finished in a tie for sixth in the MLB in saves with 43 and sported a 6-3 record with a 2.75 ERA. However, given the success of Tyler Clippard in Storen's absence there are questions whether or not Storen will assume that role once again.
After early season injuries to the outfield earned Ankiel some starts, he hasn't started much since. The .228 batting average, .282 on-base percentage, and .694 OPS from the 33-year old veteran wasn't enough for the NL-leading Nationals and will likely spell the end of his career with the team.
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