MacDougal arrives at Space Coast Stadium

A day after agreeing to terms on a Minor League deal with the Nationals, right-hander Mike MacDougal arrived at Space Coast Stadium early Thursday afternoon and was greeted warmly by first baseman Adam Dunn, left-hander Ross Detwiler and clubhouse manager Mike Wallace. 

Last season, MacDougal was Washington’s closer, saving 20 games with a 3.60 ERA. He was arbitration eligible after the season, but was non-tendered in December because the team wasn’t sure if he would recover from offseason hip surgery. 

MacDougal said he is healthy, but must find a way to fix his mechanics. He gave up five earned runs in 4 2/3 innings this spring before he was unconditionally released by the Marlins on Tuesday.

“I have thrown a few times this spring and I haven’t felt [any pain].” MacDougal said  “I feel like I’m getting back into the flow of throwing. I want to throw as much as possible.

“I have a little bit of [a command problem] this spring. The ball is down and it’s sinking good. My arm is healthy and my legs are healthy. I think I need innings. I just need to pitch.”