The Nationals added pitching depth by claiming right-hander Paxton Schultz off waivers from the Blue Jays on Friday.
There had been one open spot on the Nats’ 40-man roster after the team requested unconditional release waivers for righty Sauryn Lao so he could pursue playing in Japan.
Schultz, 28, had five Major League stints last season with Toronto. He appeared in 13 games, including two starts, and recorded a 4.38 ERA across 24 2/3 frames.
Schultz made his big league debut on April 20 against the Mariners. He fanned eight batters and allowed only two hits in 4 1/3 innings.
From May 24-June 8, Schultz recorded a 2.45 ERA with 13 strikeouts and two walks.
Schultz spent most of last season with Triple-A Buffalo. In 25 games (one start and one save), he was 5-4 with a 3.31 ERA in 49 innings.
Schultz was a 14th-round Draft pick by the Brewers in 2019 out of Utah Valley University. He was traded to the Blue Jays in May 2021.
Earlier this week, the Nationals also claimed outfielder Joey Wiemer off waivers from the Giants.