Nationals Acquire Braxton Roxby and Designate Zak Kent
The Washington Nationals have claimed right-handed pitcher Braxton Roxby off waivers from the San Francisco Giants and have designated fellow righty Zak Kent for assignment, according to the team's announcement on Thursday.
Roxby, who will turn 28 in the spring, made his major league debut in 2026, pitching 5 1/3 innings with a 3.38 ERA. He spent most of the 2026 season in Triple-A Sacramento, achieving a 3.78 ERA with a strikeout rate of 23.1%. His pitching repertoire includes a four-seamer, sinker, and slider, with the slider being his primary pitch. Roxby has three minor league options remaining, allowing him to compete for a spot in the Nationals' bullpen during spring training in 2027.
Zak Kent, who is approaching 29 years old, had a mixed season in 2026, playing for both the Nationals and Twins organizations. He recorded a 5.51 ERA over 16 1/3 innings in the majors and had better performance in Triple-A with the Twins. Kent has a total of 34 innings in two major league seasons, with a 5.03 ERA. He is out of minor league options next year, which may lead him to clear waivers and potentially seek a minor league deal.
