Angels sign reliever Burnett for two years

NASHVILLE, Dec. 5 (UPI) -- Left-handed relief pitcher Sean Burnett has signed a two-year contract with the Los Angeles Angels, the team announced Wednesday.

Terms of deal weren't disclosed, but MLB.com said the contract also includes a club option for 2015.

Burnett, 30, was a key piece in the Washington Nationals' run to the National League East crown this past season while logging a 2.38 earned run average and striking out 57 in 56 2/3 innings over 70 appearances.

The situational specialist has averaged 7.8 strikeouts per nine innings over the past three seasons with the Nationals.

He is expected to team with fellow lefty Scott Downs in the Angels' bullpen, while new free agent acquisition Ryan Madson is set to take over the team's closer role.