2026 Transactions: Phillies Claim Hoffman, D-Backs Sign Espinal

On a light day across Major League Baseball on August 20, it was a light day in the transactions department. Arizona was at the center of what was done on the day, as the club lost a reliever to waivers. The Diamondbacks also added a player, signing a former All-Star on a Minor League contract.

Phillies claim reliever

The Phillies claimed reliever Andrew Hoffmann off waivers from the Diamondbacks.

Arizona acquired Hoffmann last year as part of a trade that sent Randal Grichuk to Kansas City. He made 16 appearances with the D-Backs over his two seasons with the team.

Hoffmann was assigned to Triple-A Lehigh Valley.

Espinal to Arizona

The Diamondbacks signed infielder Santiago Espinal to a Minor League deal. He was recently released by the Texas Rangers.

Espinal spent time this season with the Los Angeles Dodgers for multiple stints. Across 36 contests, the veteran infielder slashed .268/.276/.375 with a home run and four extra-base hits. The 31-year-old has never been a power hitter but has had value as a contact-minded infielder.

He was assigned to Triple-A Reno.

Recalls

Reiver Sanmartin (Giants), Ray Delgado (Astros), and Sammy Peralta (Angels) were recalled from the Minors.

Other notes

The Astros designated outfielder Nelson Velazquez for assignment.

Reds pitcher Kent Emanuel was sent outright to Triple-A Louisville.

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