Nationals claim RHP Gus Varland off waivers from Diamondbacks

The Washington Nationals have claimed right-handed pitcher Gus Varland, 29, off waivers from the Arizona Diamondbacks. Varland, the older brother of Blue Jays reliever Louis Varland, missed the 2025 MLB season due to injury but posted a strong 3.42 ERA with 27 strikeouts in 26.1 innings in 2024. He features an exciting fastball/slider combination, with his 95 MPH fastball showing significant carry. The Nationals hope he can return to form and provide valuable depth to their bullpen.