Jhancarlos Lara: Everything you need to know

The Nationals claimed Lara off waivers and optioned him to Double-A Harrisburg Friday. The 23-year-old was designated for assignment by Atlanta on Wednesday and will remain in the National League East after being claimed by Washington. A change of scenery could be beneficial for Lara, who has struggled to an 8.22 ERA, 2.65 WHIP and 21:29 K:BB across 15.1 innings at the Double-A level this year.

Atlanta designated Lara for assignment Wednesday. Lara was a roster casualty with Atlanta needing to clear a 40-man spot for first baseman/designated hitter Rowdy Tellez, who was promoted from Triple-A Gwinnett in a corresponding move. A 23-year-old righty, Lara was up with Atlanta for a brief spell last September but didn't get the chance to make his big-league debut. He had pitched exclusively for Double-A Columbus thus far in 2026, logging an 8.22 ERA, 2.65 WHIP and 21:29 K:BB in 15.1 innings.

Atlanta optioned Lara to minor-league camp Thursday. Lara got a cup of coffee in the majors last season but didn't make an appearance. The 23-year-old was moved to a relief role in the minors in 2025 and will continue to work on throwing more strikes at Triple-A Gwinnett. The hard-throwing Lara struck out 104 over 68.2 frames between Double-A Columbus and Gwinnett last season but also issued 65 walks and held a 7.73 ERA.