Report: Jeter Downs claimed off waivers by NL club originally appeared on NBC Sports Boston

The Boston Red Sox officially parted ways with infielder Jeter Downs on Thursday after designating the former top prospect for assignment earlier this month.

Downs, originally acquired by the Red Sox from the Los Angeles Dodgers in the infamous Mookie Betts trade, was claimed off waivers by the Washington Nationals. The club also announced veteran first baseman Eric Hosmer was released after being DFA'd.

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Once a top-five prospect in the Red Sox organization, Downs underwhelmed at Triple-A Worcester before struggling during his brief stint with Boston. In 14 games with the big-league club last season, Downs hit .154 with one home run and four RBI. He struck out 21 times and walked only once in 41 plate appearances.

Downs was DFA'd to clear a spot for newly-acquired Japanese outfielder Masataka Yoshida on the roster.