The Washington Nationals made several roster adjustments today, including designating first baseman Juan Yepez for assignment. As part of these changes, outfielder Robert Hassell III and infielder José Tena have been optioned to Triple-A Rochester, while outfielder Daylen Lile has been recalled, and third baseman Brady House has had his contract selected.
Yepez, 27, joined the Nationals on a minor league contract prior to the 2024 season. He was added to the team’s roster in July and saw considerable playing time in the latter half of last season, posting a .283/.335/.429 batting line with a 113 wRC+ over 249 plate appearances.
As the Nationals entered the 2025 season, they bolstered their first base/designated hitter situation by acquiring Nathaniel Lowe from the Texas Rangers and signing free agent Josh Bell. These acquisitions pushed Yepez further down the team’s depth chart, leading to his initial assignment to Rochester at the start of the year.
During his time with the Red Wings, Yepez has participated in 45 games, but his performance has been underwhelming, with a batting line of .199/.273/.301 and a wRC+ of 56. His struggles can be partly attributed to a .212 batting average on balls in play, coupled with just three home runs.
Though Yepez has some versatility, primarily as a first baseman, he has not played third base since 2022 and has only limited experience in the outfield corners. His speed on the bases also does not pose a significant threat, which means he must improve his hitting to increase his value. Unfortunately, this season’s difficulties have ultimately led to his designation from Washington’s roster. Additionally, as he enters his final option year, Yepez is limited to just a few months of minor league options.
Currently, he finds himself in the designation for assignment (DFA) process, which can extend up to a week. The waiver process typically lasts 48 hours, allowing the Nationals up to five days to explore potential trades. Throughout his career, Yepez has been an average big league hitter, with 588 plate appearances across stints with the Cardinals and Nationals, but this year’s performance has likely diminished any trade interest.
If he goes unclaimed through outright waivers, Yepez will remain with the Nationals as depth without occupying a roster spot. He won’t be eligible to elect free agency, given that he has less than three years of service time and has not been previously outrighted in his career.
Photo courtesy of Daniel Kucin Jr., Imagn Images