Anderson, Ward Are Traded for Two Minor Leaguers

The Washington Nationals made a pair of trades late last night, sending infielder-outfielder Marlon Anderson to the Los Angeles Dodgers and first baseman-outfielder Daryle Ward to the Atlanta Braves for a pair of minor league pitchers, two more small steps in the organization's attempt to rebuild its threadbare minor league system.

Anderson, who scored the winning run on a wild pitch in the 10th inning in the Nationals' 6-5 victory over the Philadelphia Phillies, was dealt for right-hander Jhonny Nuñez. The 20-year-old was pitching for the Dodgers' rookie ball affiliate in Vero Beach, Fla., where he was 6-0 with a 1.58 ERA in 10 appearances, seven of them starts.

Ward also was traded for right-hander, Luis Atilano, who was 6-7 with a 4.50 ERA for the Braves' Class A affiliate in Myrtle Beach, S.C. Atilano, however, underwent ligament replacement surgery on his right elbow on Aug. 10, and the move is clearly one in which the Nationals must hope the 21-year-old -- a South Atlantic League all-star last season -- recovers and is healthy in a year or two.

"We are thrilled to add a pitcher of Atilano's potential," General Manager Jim Bowden said in a statement released just before midnight. "We have full knowledge of his recent surgery, but feel the potential risk is well worth the reward."

Ward, who was hitting .308 with six homers and 19 RBI in 78 games for the Nationals, was a bit player whose contract was up after this season, so there is essentially no risk for Washington.

Anderson, however, said he was "shocked" by the move. He hit .274 with five homers and 23 RBI in 109 games for Washington. His contract runs through next season, when he will earn $925,000, so the Nationals have freed up more money on the 2005 payroll. . . .

The team will hold an equipment drive tonight and tomorrow to benefit youth baseball and softball in the District. Fans can donate new or used equipment by bringing it to the gates at either game.