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The 25-year-old Yean, an imposing 6-foot-3, 265 pounds, was born in Sabana Grande de Boya, Dominican Republic, and is thrilled to finally get his shot at the Major League level. He originally signed with the Nationals in 2017, but spent 2021-25 in the Pirates organization, before re-signing with Washington in November 2025.
“It’s something I’ve been working super hard for my entire career about staying disciplined and being consistent all this time,” Yean (pronounced Zheen) said via team interpreter Kenny Diaz. “I was super excited to get that news.”
Yean made an impressive debut in the Major Leagues on Sunday, hitting 98-99 mph with his fastball and mixing in his changeup, slider and sinker to toss a pair of scoreless no-hit frames in the Nationals’ 11-5 loss to the Pirates. After the game, Yean was optioned back to Triple-A Rochester.
“It’s been a journey where my family has been behind me every second, every step of the way. It’s something that I have always wanted my entire career. [I] just continue to battle and work through everything that has happened.”
Hassell III was competing last year with Daylen Lile for a starting spot in the crowded Nationals outfield. Lile has taken off this season, hitting .256 with 10 homers and 43 RBIs.
Hassell III, the Padres’ first-round pick in the 2020 MLB Draft who was a notable piece in the 2022 Juan Soto trade, is hitting .215 with two homers and 21 RBIs at Rochester in 63 games, after batting .310 last season with 10 homers and 49 RBIs in 76 games.
Yean focused on his command and attention to detail in finding the strike zone in Rochester, going 2-1 with a 3.60 ERA with nine saves in 39 games, striking out 45 batters in 40 innings.
“It has been really good, the strike throwing,” said Nationals manager Blake Butera. “It’s a good fastball, it’s a sinker profile, good velocity, 96-97 mph. He’s had a lot of success this year in Triple-A. Also, [he’s] just a really good person. I’m sure you saw the big smile. He’s excited to be here. His teammates love him, everybody in the organization loves him.”
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