Slaten goes off to D.C.

GLENDALE — After four years with the Arizona Diamondbacks, former Glendale Community College standout Doug Slaten will be moving east.

The Washington Nationals claimed Slaten, a left-handed relief pitcher, off waivers Thursday.

Slaten, 29, helped the Diamondbacks win the National League West Division title in 2007. Arizona would defeat the Chicago Cubs to advance to the league championship series before falling to the Colorado Rockies in four games.

Now, Slaten will join a team that finished with a league-worst record of 59-103.

Washington finished 34 games behind the Philadelphia Phillies in the East.

Slaten, who attended Glendale college in 1999 and was drafted by Arizona in the 17th round in 2000, went 3-5 with a 3.68 earned-run average in 80 2/3 innings since joining the Diamondbacks in 2006.

In 11 appearances with Arizona this past season, Slaten didn’t record a decision. He finished with a 7.11 ERA.

Slaten was optioned to the triple-A Reno Aces twice, with the last time coming May 29. He went 3-2 with a 3.09 ERA. He also notched nine saves in 43 2/3 innings, striking out 40 and allowing 41 hits.

— Charles Rich