Nationals designate two-time All-Star Dee Strange-Gordon for assignment

The Washington Nationals made a slew of roster moves on Tuesday, including placing right-handed pitcher Stephen Strasburg on the 15-day injured list. Another notable move was the club designating utility man Dee Strange-Gordon for assignment. 

Strange-Gordon, 34, made the Opening Day roster after signing a minor league deal for spring training. The 12-year veteran appeared in 22 games this season. He hit .305/.305/.356. However, he didn’t draw a walk in 59 plate appearances and managed just one extra-base hit.

Still, the decision to DFA Strange-Gordon may not be popular to some Nationals faithful. But his playing appeared set to dwindle more. The Nationals recently called up the young shortstop Luis Garcia. Then the door shut completely for Strange-Gordon with Ehire Adrianza recently being activated from the injured list.

The Nats needed pitching arms with Strasburg going on the IL and reliever Hunter Harvey being transferred to the 60-day injured list. Along with optioning RHP Jordan Weems, Strange-Gordon’s DFA made way for right-handers Jackson Tetreault and Reed Garrett. 

Tetreault made his major league debut with a start Tuesday against the Atlanta Braves. Meanwhile, Strange-Gordon will have to weigh his options if he isn’t traded and clears waivers. After not being on an MLB roster in 2021, he could opt for free agency over returning to the minor leagues.

His speed and versatility on defense could make him an intriguing option for another MLB team.