Over the past few months & years, several ex-Yankees pitching prospects have landed with the Nationals. Add another one to that list, as Chase Hampton was claimed by the club on September 12.

Hampton joins Nats

The Nationals claimed pitcher Chase Hampton off waivers from the New York Yankees.

Now 25 years old, Hampton was a sixth-round pick in 2022 by the Yanks out of Texas Tech. He had a breakout season in 2023, striking out 145 batters over 106 games. However, he made just seven starts in 2024 and missed all of 2025 due to injury. This past season, he’s worked his way to Double-A but walked 28 over 35.2 IP.

The Yankees DFA’d him when Aaron Judge was reinstated off the 60-day IL.

Hampton was optioned to Double-A Harrisburg.

Smith selected by Arizona

Pavin Smith is back with the Diamondbacks, as he had his contract selected on September 12.

Arizona outrighted Smith off the 40-man roster and sent him to Triple-A Reno in July. He hit well with the Aces this season, slashing .301/.425/.500 over 43 contests.

Recalls & options

Tyler Locklear (D-Backs), Ronny Simon (Pirates), and Andrew Sears (Tigers) were recalled.

Adrian Del Castillo (D-Backs), Alex Cook (Rays), Logan O’Hoppe (Rangers), Adam Macko (Rangers), Clayton Beeter (Nationals), Darell Hernaiz (Athletics), and Ben Ross (Twins) were optioned.

Other notes

The Royals claimed reliever Spencer Bivens from the Giants.

Albert Suarez re-signed with the Orioles on a Minor League deal.

Rays pitcher Michael Grove was designated for assignment.

As noted earlier in the day, Brody Hopkins and Emmanuel Rodriguez were also promoted. Check out more of our MLB coverage.