Report: Nationals acquire reliever Matt Thornton from Yankees

The Washington Nationals acquired left-handed reliever Matt Thornton, reports Jon Heyman of CBS Sports. The Nationals claimed him off waivers, and the move will save the Yankees more than $4 million, according to Heyman.

The Washington Nationals have acquired left-handed reliever Matt Thornton, reports Jon Heyman of CBS Sports.

The Nationals claimed him off waivers in a move that will save the Yankees more than $4 million, according to Heyman.

Thornton has a 2.55 ERA in 24.2 innings this season for New York. The 37-year-old lefty has allowed 23 hits and has struck out 20 batters on the year.

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The Nationals' bullpen ranks sixth in the majors with a 2.92 ERA. However, the Nationals only carry two left-handed relievers: Ross Detwiler (3.60 ERA) and Jerry Blevins (5.09 ERA).

Thornton has excelled against left-handed hitters, allowing .556 OPS to the 64 left-handed hitters he's faced this year. The pitcher is due $3.5 million next season. 

The Yankees signed left-hander Rich Hill to a major league contract on Tuesday. 

- Alex Hampl