Sauryn Lao Released by Nationals to Pursue Opportunity in Japan

The Washington Nationals made a notable roster decision by releasing right-handed pitcher Sauryn Lao. This move gives him the chance to chase a lucrative opportunity overseas.

Lao now gets to continue his career in Japan’s Nippon Professional Baseball. It also hints at the Nationals’ shifting priorities during a time of front-office change.

Sauryn Lao’s Departure from Washington

The Nationals officially released Lao, dropping their 40-man roster to 39 players. This wasn’t really about performance—it was more about giving the 26-year-old pitcher freedom to make a deal abroad.

Reports say Lao has agreed to join the Nippon-Ham Fighters on a contract that guarantees one season. There’s a club option for 2027, and the deal could be worth over $3 million.

For a pitcher with so little major league experience, that kind of money is hard to pass up.

Why Japan Made Sense for Lao

Lao’s journey to the majors has never followed a straight line. A move to Japan gives him both stability and a bigger spotlight.

Nippon Professional Baseball attracts pitchers who want steady roles and good pay. For Lao, this deal means he’ll get to pitch regularly on a big stage—something he couldn’t count on in Washington’s crowded system.

A Brief Look at Lao’s MLB Experience

Lao landed with the Nationals after they claimed him off waivers from the Seattle Mariners. He made his major league debut with Seattle in 2025.

His big league time was short but probably eye-opening. In 11 MLB innings, Lao allowed six earned runs and struck out nine hitters. Not eye-popping stats, but the sample size was tiny and he pitched in some tough relief spots.

Limited Service Time, Limited Leverage

Lao has just 24 days of big-league service time, so he’s still far from arbitration eligibility. He has two minor-league option years left, but that flexibility may have actually hurt his chances in Washington’s long-term plans.

From Infielder to Pitcher: A Unique Journey

Lao’s career stands out for his late switch to pitching. The Los Angeles Dodgers originally signed him in 2015 as an infielder, but he never really found his swing past High-A.

In 2023, his organization decided to try him on the mound. That move ended up giving his career new life.

Strong Triple-A Performance in 2025

Lao’s 2025 minor-league numbers show real progress. At Triple-A, he threw 74 2/3 innings over 25 appearances, often working as a short starter for two to four innings at a time.

• 3.01 ERA
• 24.7% strikeout rate
• 6.9% walk rate

Those stats point to a pitcher with command and the ability to miss bats. He’s also shown some versatility—traits that usually play well in Japan.

What the Move Means for the Nationals

From Washington’s side, letting Lao go probably brings in a nominal release fee from the Fighters. More than that, it signals a shift in how the organization thinks.

With a new front office in place, the Nationals seem less attached to players brought in by the previous regime. Lao still had some upside, but maybe the club just wanted more roster flexibility as it follows its new direction.

A Win-Win Outcome

This move looks like it works out for both sides. Lao gets some financial security and a bigger role overseas.

The Nationals, meanwhile, free up a roster spot and let a player chase a better shot elsewhere.

Sauryn Lao, a pitcher who really changed things up mid-career, now heads to Japan. Maybe this next chapter will be his most important—and, honestly, the most rewarding one yet.

 
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