Nationals Sign Veteran Andrew Chafin, Designate Colin Poche for Assignment

Washington, D.C. — The Washington Nationals have signed left-handed relief pitcher Andrew Chafin to a one-year major league contract, the team announced on May 1, 2025. The move comes as Colin Poche was designated for assignment following a disappointing start to the season.

Chafin, who will turn 35 next month, brings over a decade of major league experience to the Nationals’ bullpen. Last season, he posted a 3.51 earned run average (ERA) in 62 appearances with the Detroit Tigers and Texas Rangers. This season, Chafin began with a minor league deal with the Tigers before opting out of that contract to join the Nationals.

During his time in Triple-A Toledo, Chafin demonstrated strong performance, logging 12 2/3 innings with a 2.13 ERA and a strikeout rate of 31.5%. Chafin’s ability to generate strikeouts while keeping walks relatively low at 7.4% makes him a valuable addition to a struggling bullpen. His past performance includes 508 1/3 innings pitched with a career ERA of 3.42.

Poche’s corresponding move came after an unfortunate series of outings that saw him register an 11.42 ERA over 8 2/3 innings and walk 12 batters in his first 13 appearances. The Nationals’ management, led by Mike Rizzo, acknowledged that Poche’s struggles necessitated a change.

“We needed to make a move for the club’s betterment,” Rizzo stated in a press conference. “Chafin’s experience and track record can help stabilize what has been a rough bullpen for us.”

The Nationals currently sit at 13-18, fourth in the National League East, and are looking to improve their overall performance as they endure a challenging season. Chafin’s arrival may provide the stabilizing presence that the bullpen requires, especially with the team aiming for better results moving forward.

“We have high hopes that Andrew will make an immediate impact,” Rizzo added. “His leadership and abilities are exactly what we need right now.”

Looking ahead, if Chafin performs well, the Nationals may consider trading him for prospects at the trade deadline. Meanwhile, Poche’s future remains uncertain as he clears waivers after his poor start.