The Washington Nationals sent first baseman/designated hitter Andres Chaparro (oblique) on a minor-league rehab assignment to the rookie-level Florida Complex League on Wednesday. Chaparro suffered a strained left oblique all the way back in the middle of March during spring training and is just now ready to resume playing in actual games, which means that his return probably isn't imminent. The 26-year-old could have an opportunity to see some playing time as Washington's DH against left-handed pitchers when he returns to the big leagues, potentially in late May or early June. The Venezuelan first baseman made his major-league debut in 2024 and went 26-for-121 (.215) with four home runs, 12 doubles, 15 RBI, one steal and 12 runs scored in 33 games. Fantasy managers in mixed leagues can continue ignoring him for now.

Washington Nationals first baseman/designated hitter Andres Chaparro (side) apparently injured his left side while taking batting practice on Friday before the team's Grapefruit League game against the division-rival Atlanta Braves. Chaparro left with a trainer while grabbing at his side. The 25-year-old has been in competition with Juan Yepez this spring for a roster spot and is having a great camp, batting .400 with a 1.008 OPS. Depending on the severity and specific nature of his injury, Chaparro could lose out on a roster spot and be forced to open the 2025 season on the injured list. Stay tuned for an update on his injury when the Nationals provide one. The Nats acquired the Venezuelan from the D-backs last year, and he hit .215 (26-for-121) with four homers and 15 RBI in his first 33 big-league games in 2024 in D.C.UPDATE: Chaparro is dealing with left-oblique tightness and will undergo an MRI exam on Saturday morning, according to manager Dave Martinez.

The Washington Nationals placed rookie infielder Andres Chaparro on the paternity list on Tuesday and recalled outfielder Stone Garrett from Triple-A Rochester in a corresponding move. Chaparro will almost certainly be away from the team for the entire three-game series against the Kansas City Royals this week before returning to the club for the final series of the season this weekend against the division-rival Philadelphia Phillies. The 25-year-old has hit just .215 (26-for-121) with four home runs, 12 doubles, 15 RBI, one steal, seven walks and 24 strikeouts in 132 trips to the plate in his first 33 major-league games for the Nats in 2024. Juan Yepez is making the start at first in D.C. on Tuesday against Royals left-hander Cole Ragans and could play regularly this series with Chaparro away from the team to welcome a child into his family.