Story by
Veteran Pitcher Joins New Team After Release From Blue Jays
- Story by
- Veteran Pitcher Joins New Team After Release From Blue Jays
The Washington Nationals activated right-hander Matt Waldron to their active roster Tuesday. In a corresponding move, the Nationals designated right-hander Trevor Williams for assignment to clear the spot, according to The Athletic's Spencer Nusbaum.
Waldron, 29, now arrives at his third organization this season.
Advertisement
The San Diego Padres designated him for assignment in late July, and the Toronto Blue Jays claimed him off waivers days later, only to designate him for assignment themselves after just four relief appearances, earning five runs in just 4 1/3 innings. Washington claimed him off waivers on August 22, after transferring left-hander Connely Early to the 60-day injured list to make room.
The Nationals now have a knuckleballer on their roster; however, Waldron has struggled at the major league level this year, posting a 7.54 ERA between stints with San Diego and Toronto. He's been sharper in the minors, pitching to a 1.33 ERA over 27 innings with San Diego's Triple-A affiliate El Paso Chihuahuas.
Advertisement
Williams, 34, is in his fourth season with the Nationals since re-signing on a two-year, $14 million deal. He missed more than two months this season while recovering from a right elbow procedure and has settled into a long-relief role since returning.
Toronto Blue Jays hat Jim Rassol-Imagn Images
The Nationals sit well out of postseason contention and have leaned on August waiver claims to audition arms for 2027 and finish off the season with what they can manage. Whether Waldron's knuckleball earns him a long-term spot on the roster, or if Williams clears waivers and returns on a minor league deal, should become clear in the coming weeks.
Advertisement
Related: Dansby Swanson Makes Off-Field Announcement Amid 4th Cubs Season
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Aug 25, 2026, where it first appeared in the MLB section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
