Hassell DFA'd as Nationals promote Yean from Triple-A

Robert Hassell III, one of the key prospects acquired in the Juan Soto trade, was designated for assignment by the Nats this morning

In promoting Eddy Yean today in order to get a look at another reliever who might help stabilize a shaky bullpen, the Nationals decided to part ways with a prospect who not long ago was supposed to be a big part of their long-term plan: Robert Hassell III.

The Nats designated Hassell for assignment this morning, a transaction that became necessary to clear a 40-man roster spot for Yean, who officially had his contract purchased from Triple-A Rochester. The move may have caught some off-guard, but it had increasingly become clear Hassell didn’t have a clear path back to the majors.

One of five prospects acquired from the Padres in the blockbuster August 2022 trade of Juan Soto, Hassell never fully lived up to his potential as an advanced hitter and solid defensive outfielder. The 24-year-old debuted for the Nationals last season and enjoyed a handful of big moments but ultimately slashed just .223/.257/.315 with nine doubles, three homers, 18 RBI and 62 strikeouts to only eight walks across 206 plate appearances.