The Washington Nationals made a bullpen move Sunday morning, recalling right-hander Jake Bird from Triple-A Rochester ahead of their series finale.
The move comes one day after Washington's 8-2 win and gives the club a fresh arm for what is expected to be a bullpen game. Nationals Communications announced the transaction on X before first pitch.
To make room on the active roster, the Nationals optioned left-hander Carson Palmquist to Triple-A Rochester after he pitched in Saturday's victory.
Bird is expected to handle multiple innings behind scheduled opener Brad Lord as Washington manages its pitching staff through the series finale. The appearance will also mark Bird's first game with the Nationals after he was acquired at the trade deadline.
The 30-year-old joined Washington on Aug. 3 as part of the trade that sent infielder Luis García Jr. to the New York Yankees. He was immediately optioned to Rochester following the deal before earning Sunday's promotion.
Before the trade, Bird spent the entire 2026 season with the Yankees, working primarily as a middle reliever. He posted a 1-1 record with a 5.93 ERA, a 1.55 WHIP and 31 strikeouts across 30.1 innings while appearing in a bulk relief role.
Scott Marshall-Imagn Images
Washington's pitching depth has been tested by injuries in recent weeks. James Wood remains sidelined with a left oblique strain, while PJ Poulin is on the 60-day injured list with a left flexor strain. Right-hander Cole Henry also remains unavailable because of a right rotator cuff strain, making bullpen management increasingly important.
The Nationals entered Sunday at 58-61, sitting fourth in the National League East and continuing to chase a National League Wild Card spot. Calling up Bird gives Washington another experienced option as it looks to finish the series on a positive note.
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