Nationals Designate Pitcher Jake Eder for Assignment

Roster move clears way for acquisition of Curtis Mead from White Sox

Mar. 28, 2026 at 10:34pm

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The Washington Nationals have designated pitcher Jake Eder for assignment, removing him from their 40-man roster. This transaction opens up a roster spot for the team to acquire infielder Curtis Mead in a trade with the Chicago White Sox.

Why it matters

Eder struggled in his limited MLB action last season, posting a 4.91 ERA and 1.31 WHIP over 18.1 innings with the Angels. He also had difficulties at the Triple-A level, ending the year with a 6.59 ERA across 68.1 frames. The Nationals are making roster moves to improve their depth and prepare for the upcoming season.

The details

The Nationals designated Eder for assignment in order to clear a spot on their 40-man roster. This allows the team to acquire infielder Curtis Mead from the White Sox in a separate trade. Eder will now be exposed to waivers, and if he clears, the Nationals could outright him to the minors or release him.

  • The Nationals made this roster move on Saturday, March 28, 2026.

The players

Jake Eder

A pitcher who spent time with the Angels and at the Triple-A level in the Nationals' organization last season.

Curtis Mead

An infielder acquired by the Nationals in a trade with the Chicago White Sox.

Washington Nationals

The Major League Baseball team based in Washington, D.C.

Chicago White Sox

The Major League Baseball team based in Chicago, Illinois.

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The takeaway

This move by the Nationals is part of their ongoing efforts to optimize their roster and prepare for the upcoming season. By designating Eder for assignment, they create flexibility to acquire new talent like Mead, as they look to field a competitive team in 2026.