Nationals part ways with $7 million pitcher Zack Littell

The Washington Nationals have designated veteran pitcher Zack Littell for assignment after a disappointing season. Littell, who signed a one-year, $7 million contract last offseason, recorded a 7-8 record and a 4.97 ERA in 23 appearances this year. This decision follows his previous two seasons where he maintained an ERA under 4.00. The Nationals have also reinstated pitcher Brad Lord from the injured list, indicating a shift in their pitching strategy as they aim to enhance their performance in the National League East.

Nationals part ways with $7 million pitcher Zack Littell
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sport Published Aug 6, 2026

Topic overview

In brief

  • The Washington Nationals have designated pitcher Zack Littell for assignment.
  • Littell struggled this season with a 7-8 record and a 4.97 ERA in 23 appearances.
  • The Nationals are looking to improve their roster as they navigate the current season.

Summary

In the United States, the Washington Nationals have made a significant roster change by designating veteran pitcher Zack Littell for assignment. This decision comes after Littell's challenging performance during the current season, where he recorded a 7-8 win-loss record and a 4.97 earned run average (ERA) over 23 appearances. Littell had joined the Nationals in the previous offseason, signing a one-year contract worth $7 million after a successful 2025 season with the Tampa Bay Rays and Cincinnati Reds, where he posted a 10-8 record and a 3.81 ERA.

The Nationals' decision to part ways with Littell is not entirely unexpected, given his struggles this season compared to his previous two seasons, where he maintained an ERA below 4.00. The team has also reinstated pitcher Brad Lord from the 15-day injured list, indicating a shift in their pitching strategy. This move reflects the Nationals' ongoing efforts to improve their roster and performance as they navigate the challenges of the current season.

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Updated Aug 6, 2026

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