Nats agree to trade infielder Curtis Mead to Red Sox for starter Connelly Early

The Washington Nationals are trading infielder Curtis Mead to the Boston Red Sox for lefty Connelly Early, according to a person with knowledge of the deal who spoke on the condition of anonymity. ESPN first reported the trade on Saturday night.

The Nationals have sought avenues to add pitching and recently communicated that they would be open to acquiring big-league talent at the deadline. The Red Sox, who recently won 15 straight, sought right-handed hitters. In Mead, they get an impact bat who fits that criteria.

The Nationals will recall third baseman Brady House from Triple-A Rochester to fill the vacancy left by Mead, according to a team source.

Mead revitalized his career in Washington this season, posting an .852 OPS across 87 games after the Chicago White Sox designated him for assignment in March. Early has been on the 15-day injured list since July 1; he had a 3.44 ERA across 17 starts this year.

Nationals writer Spencer Nusbaum is currently discussing the trade in a live chat.