Nats recall Slaten, shuffle papers to send Chico back down

WASHINGTON -- The Washington Nationals called up reliever Doug Slaten from Triple-A Syracuse on Sunday, adding a second left-hander to their bullpen.

To make room for the 30-year-old Slaten, the Nationals designated left-hander Matt Chico for optional assignment. Slaten was 3-5 with 13 holds and a 3.68 ERA in four seasons with Arizona.

The moves were announced before Washington finished a three-game home series against Florida.

Slaten was claimed off waivers from the Diamondbacks in November. He pitched 17 scoreless innings in Syracuse, striking out 17.

The 26-year-old Chico was recalled from Double-A Harrisburg to start Saturday's game against Florida. He worked five innings and got a no-decision.

Because Chico was designated for optional assignment, the Nationals are not required to waive, trade or release him within 10 days, said Nationals general manager Mike Rizzo. The transaction had to be made in a roundabout way because of Chico's major league service time.

"It's a paper move; it's a procedural move," Rizzo said. "We have no intention of moving the player ... and we have no risk of losing the player."

Rizzo said Chico will be placed on optional waivers Monday and then be reassigned to Harrisburg. Chico will remain on Washington's 40-man roster, he said.