The Los Angeles Dodgers lost reliever Wyatt Mills on Thursday after the Washington Nationals claimed the right-hander off waivers, ending his brief stint with the organization.
The Nationals immediately optioned Mills to Triple-A Rochester after completing the claim. Dodgers beat writer Fabian Ardaya first reported the move after Los Angeles designated Mills for assignment earlier this week to clear a 40-man roster spot for catcher Hunter Feduccia.
Mills made six appearances with the Dodgers this season, posting a 5.68 ERA across 6.1 innings. The 31-year-old recorded five strikeouts but also issued eight walks, finishing with a 2.21 WHIP before being designated for assignment on Monday.
He had been much more effective at Triple-A Oklahoma City, where he compiled a 2.41 ERA over 37.1 innings while serving as a dependable bullpen option. His strong minor league performance ultimately convinced Washington to take a chance on adding experienced relief depth.
The move comes with the Dodgers sitting at 69-46 despite being swept by the Chicago Cubs, though they remain atop the National League West. The Nationals, meanwhile, entered play at 56-60 as they continue evaluating controllable talent for the future.
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Mills' path through the Dodgers organization was short-lived. He was recalled on Aug. 1 after an injury to reliever Will Klein, pitched two innings against the Boston Red Sox on Aug. 2 and was designated for assignment two days later when Los Angeles needed roster flexibility.
The veteran is now headed to Triple-A Rochester, where he will provide organizational depth for Washington while awaiting another opportunity in the majors. Fully healthy after Tommy John surgery cost him the 2023 and 2024 seasons, Mills will look to earn his way back to the big leagues with the Nationals.
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