The Nationals tweaked their 40-man roster Friday afternoon, claiming left-hander Francisco Pérez off waivers from the Guardians.
Pérez made his major league debut for the Indians in 2021, working to a 4.05 ERA in four relief outings. He was tagged for three runs in 1 1/3 innings in his debut on Aug. 12 at home against the A's, then turned in three scoreless appearances in September, covering 5 1/3 innings.
The 24-year-old from the Dominican Republic will retain his rookie status at least through 2022. In 30 games between Double-A Akron and Triple-A Columbus last season, he posted a 4-0 record with three saves and a 1.87 ERA. Over six minor league seasons, Pérez went 25-18 with a 3.70 ERA and a 1.183 WHIP.
The Nationals are thin in left-handed relief options, and Pérez will join Sam Clay in the bullpen come spring training.
Right-hander Kyle McGowin was outrighted to Triple-A Rochester in a corresponding roster move. McGowin, 29, worked to a 4.20 ERA in 27 games with the Nats in 2021.