Washington Nationals' key utility infielder caught in trade rumors; U.S. media analyzes Jung Jong-chul's future role

After being designated for assignment (DFA) for the third time this offseason, Jung Jong-chul was claimed today by the Washington Nationals. To free up space on the 40-man roster, the Nationals also DFA'd left-handed pitcher Konnor Pilkington. U.S. media promptly wrote about Jung Jong-chul's possible role on the Nationals roster.

Jung Jong-chul made his MLB debut last season with the Pittsburgh Pirates. After the season, he was DFA'd by the Pirates, then claimed by the Tampa Bay Rays on January 7, only to be DFA'd again on January 12. The New York Mets signed him on January 16, but he was DFA'd once more on January 21. Being selected off waivers by the Nationals marks the fourth team Jung has been with during this offseason shuffle.

According to analysis by U.S. media outlet MLB Trade Rumors, Jung Jong-chul still retains one minor league option and is expected to join the Nationals for major league spring training, competing for a utility infielder role to provide defensive depth. The Nationals' current infield starters are Brady House at third base, CJ Abrams at shortstop, and Luis Garcia Jr. at second base.

Notably, CJ Abrams has been frequently linked to trade rumors recently and may still leave the team. However, even if a trade happens, Jung Jong-chul is unlikely to immediately assume a starting position. Yet, if the Nationals fill infield vacancies through trades, his opportunities to play in the majors could increase accordingly.