Starting pitcher Scott Olsen and outfielder Josh Willingham were traded by the Florida Marlins to the Nationals yesterday in a five-player deal that signals the start of Washington's efforts to revamp its roster after a major league-worst 59-102 season.

"They talk about the plan they have with this team," Willingham said, "and I believe in it."

The Marlins received second baseman Emilio Bonifacio and two minor leaguers: second baseman Jake Smolinski and right-hander P.J. Dean.

Each player the Nationals got is entering his first year of salary arbitration. "Money does matter, certainly in these transactions, but you want to get something back, too," Marlins president of baseball operations Larry Beinfest said. "We'll talk in a few years and see how this trade went."

Olsen went 8-11 with a 4.20 ERA in 2008, his third consecutive season with at least 31 starts -- he has never been on the disabled list. The left-hander is 31-37 with a 4.63 ERA in the majors.

"You want to be the ace, no matter where you're at," Olsen said.

Willingham, who will be 30 on opening day, hit .254 with 15 homers and 51 RBIs this year, when he missed 50 games with a herniated disk in his back.

Willingham surpassed 20 home runs in 2006 and 2007 and is a career .266 hitter with 63 homers and 219 RBIs in 416 games.

One day after agreeing to send three-time All-Star Matt Holliday to the Oakland A's -- a deal that should become official today after physicals are passed -- Colorado has spoken to the Cincinnati Reds about trading third baseman Garrett Atkins, outfielder Willy Taveras and catcher Yorvit Torrealba, a source said. Atkins, the club's top remaining hitter, said he would like to stay with the Rockies, but understands a trade is possible given Ian Stewart's presence at third and Todd Helton's expected return to first base. The Indians, Angels and Twins also have expressed interest in Atkins.

Milwaukee pitcher Salomon Torres retired after 12 major league seasons. The 36-year-old reliever issued a statement through the team saying he wanted to spend more time with his family and faith. Torres, who still makes his home in the North Hills, e-mailed the Post-Gazette a message to Pirates fans: "Thank you for all the support you gave me and my family. It was great getting to know so many people here in Pittsburgh."

Joey Cora interviewed for the Seattle manager's job. A fan favorite when he was Seattle's second baseman, Cora is currently the White Sox bench coach. He is the second of seven candidates to interview with new Seattle general manager Jack Zduriencik.