Nationals Claim LHP Ken Waldichuk Off Waivers as Reclamation Project

The Washington Nationals have claimed left-handed pitcher Ken Waldichuk off waivers from the Rays, designating George Soriano for assignment. Waldichuk, a former top 100 prospect acquired in the 2022 Frankie Montas trade, missed all of 2024 due to Tommy John Surgery. He struggled in 2025 with an 8.17 ERA in the minors and reduced velocity (91.6 MPH), though he still managed 68 strikeouts in 54 innings. With a career 13.02 K/9 in the minors and recent bullpen velocity at 93.9 MPH, the Nationals view him as an intriguing reclamation project, potentially for a bullpen role.