NEW YORK -- Adding depth to the back end of their pitching staff, the Yankees acquired right-hander A.J. Cole from the Nationals on Monday evening in exchange for cash considerations.
Cole, 26, broke camp in Washington's rotation at the start of this season and made two starts before being shuttled to the bullpen. He was designated for assignment on Friday.
In four big league seasons with Washington, Cole posted a 5.32 ERA in 110 innings. He made four appearances this year, going 1-1 with a 13.06 ERA. Cole was once a touted prospect after the Nationals selected him in the fourth round of the 2010 Draft.
Cole will be added to the Yankees' 25-man roster. Right-hander David Hale was designated for assignment in a corresponding move. Making his Yankees debut, Hale pitched two scoreless innings in New York's 14-1 victory over the Twins on Monday.