Mets' Clippard on hunting down Nationals in NL East: 'They're beatable'

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Tyler Clippard is eager to compete for a playoff spot with his former team.

The New York Mets reliever, who was acquired in a trade from the Oakland Athletics on Monday, told reporters Tuesday he believes his new team's pitching staff is "probably the best in the game," and he can't wait to help them track down the National League East-leading Washington Nationals, whom he said are "beatable."

Clippard spent seven seasons with the Nationals, and the idea of hunting down his former team late in the season excites him.

"The Mets are right in the mix and it's going to be a lot of fun chasing down my old teammates there in Washington," said Clippard. "There's a lot of incentive for me on a personal and professional level to get the job done here in New York."

The right-hander was having a great season for the Athletics prior to the trade, earning 17 saves in 21 opportunities while posting an ERA of 2.79 and a WHIP of 1.19.