Nats' bullpen situation as strong as ever

WASHINGTON -- When the Nationals reached an agreement to bring back veteran free agent Howie Kendrick on a two-year deal, they solidified their bench with about a month to go before pitchers and catchers report to Spring Training.

Building a bench was one of the items on the Nats' short list this offseason, and now their reserves are all but set. The bench includes Kendrick, Matt Adams (signed as a free agent last month to replace Adam Lind), Wilmer Difo, Brian Goodwin and the backup catcher, which is currently Pedro Severino. Other than possibly signing a veteran backup catcher, the Nats can pencil in their reserves for Opening Day.

Washington is set with its eight starting position players,…