Ex-Red Sox Pitcher Matt Thornton Claimed By Nationals On Waivers

Matt Thornton has joined his fourth major league team in two years, according to CBS Sports’ Jon Heyman.

Heyman reported Tuesday, citing sources, that the left-handed reliever, who was placed on waivers by the New York Yankees, has been claimed by the Washington Nationals.

UPDATE (3:45 p.m.): The Nationals have confirmed the move.

Thornton has been effective out of the bullpen for the Yankees this season, allowing a total of seven earned runs (2.55 ERA) over 46 appearances. He will bolster an already strong Nationals ‘pen, which includes three pitchers with ERAs below 2.00.

The 37-year-old briefly pitched for the Boston Red Sox last season after being acquired from the Chicago White Sox, appearing in 20 games over the final three months of the regular season.

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