Nats trim Bourque, Bonifácio; roster at 28

Prospect optioned to Fredericksburg while veteran utility man DFA'd

August 6th, 2020

WASHINGTON -- The Nationals trimmed their active roster from 30 to 28 players on Thursday’s deadline by optioning right-hander James Bourque to the alternate training site in Fredericksburg, Va., and designating infielder/outfielder for assignment.

Bourque, Washington’s No. 25 prospect per MLB Pipeline, has pitched in two games out of the bullpen this season. He has issued one hit and one walk in 1 1/3 scoreless innings. The 27-year-old last took the mound on July 28.

Looking at the Nats’ bullpen, right-hander was reinstated from the injured list on Monday, and righty has been strong in his debut season, throwing 1 2/3 clean frames against the Mets on Wednesday.

Bonifácio brought energy and defensive versatility to the Nats since signing with the team this offseason. He appeared in three games this season -- two as a pinch-runner and one start in left field for , who returned to the lineup on Wednesday. Bonifácio, 35, inspired the Nationals’ “trumpet” celebration.

Washington signed last week, another high-energy basestealing player who also can man multiple infield/outfield positions. He already has started once in left field and as the designated hitter.

The 28-player roster will stand through the end of the 2020 season, including the playoffs.

Outfielders: , , Juan Soto,