Nationals Snag Hampton for Free | Washington Nationals News

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It's September 12th. This is Washington Nationals News Today. Powered by AI, your team, your update. The Washington Nationals just snagged pitcher Chase Hampton off waivers from the New York Yankees. He's heading to Double-A Harrisburg. This move means Matt Waldron is now on the 60-day injured list, essentially ending his season. Hampton was actually a name that came up a lot when people talked about a potential trade for CJ Abrams.
He was a pretty highly rated prospect for the Yankees, even cracking the top 100 overall prospects in the game at one point. The fact that the Nationals got him for free, instead of him being a key piece in a big trade, says a lot. It suggests their front office is sharp, knowing the value of their own players and prospects. It also hints that maybe the Yankees weren't seeing the same upside in Hampton anymore.
Now, the Nationals are banking on Hampton bouncing back. He had a really solid 2023 season before Tommy John surgery in 2025
But since the surgery, his numbers haven't been the same, especially with his control, which has been a struggle. Still, picking up a player with Hampton's past potential for nothing is a smart move. They'll work with him to see if he can rediscover that form, and maybe become a valuable part of their pitching staff.