Nationals' Cordero wins arbitration case

Last Updated: Wednesday, February 21, 2007 | 3:52 PM ET

CBC Sports

Chad Cordero didn't need the hot sun in Viera, Fla., to put a smile on his face Wednesday.

An arbitrator in Phoenix made Cordero's day, awarding the Washington Nationals relief pitcher $4.15 million US, a raise from $525,000 US.

Chad Cordero, right, converted 29 saves last season following a franchise-record 45 saves in 2005.
(Tom Hood/Associated Press)

The team had offered $3.65 million US.

"I'm glad to see it all over now," said Cordero, 24, who reported to spring training Feb. 14. "I can concentrate on the game a lot more and not have to worry about that."

Cordero posted 29 saves last season along with a 7-4 record and 3.19 earned-run average in 68 games.

In 2005, the California native led the majors with a franchise-record 47 saves for Washington.

The Nationals open the 2007 season April 2 against the visiting Florida Marlins.