Washington Nationals Claim Xavier Cedeño

The Nationals announced today that they claimed LHP Xavier Cedeño off waivers from the Houston Astros. The Astros had designated the 26-year-old for assignment last week after he posted an 11.37 ERA in 6 IP this season.

Apr 2, 2013; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Astros relief pitcher Xavier Cedeno (63) pitches against the Texas Rangers in the seventh inning at Minute Maid Park. Mandatory Credit: Thomas Campbell-USA TODAY Sports

2012 was Cedeño’s first full season in the majors and he pitched well, with a 3.77 ERA in 44 appearances out of the bullpen. The Nationals have optioned him to AAA, and if he pitches well there, it would not be a huge surprise to see him in Washington at some point this season. The Nationals now have 39 players on their 40-man roster.