Willingham traded to the Nationals

FLORENCE - Former North Alabama and Mars Hill standout Josh Willingham was traded today from the Florida Marlins to the Washington Nationals.

Willingham, who had been in the Marlins’ organization since being selected by them in the 2000 draft, had been Florida’s starting left fielder for the past three seasons. He was traded, along with pitcher Scott Olsen in exchange for second baseman Emilio Bonifacio and two minor league prospects.

“I knew the Marlins would probably be making some deals, but you don’t ever think it will be you,” Willingham said. “But that’s part of the business.”

Willingham will fly to Washington Tuesday morning for a news conference announcing the trade.