The Washington Nationals have requested the unconditional release of left-handed pitcher Seth Romero. A 2017 first-round draft pick of the Nationals, Romero was arrested and charged with driving while intoxicated and possession of a controlled substance in Sweeny, Texas, according to Jesse Dougherty of the Washington Post.
It was Romero’s second DWI arrest in Sweeny this year. His first arrest happened in January. The Nationals referred Romero to the MLB’s Joint Treatment Board.
Washington drafted Romero in the first round in 2017 despite several red flags.
Romero was suspended twice in three years while in college at Houston. Eventually, Romero got kicked off the team after a fight with a teammate.
The Nationals sent Romero home during his first spring training in 2017 after violating a team policy. He had Tommy John surgery in 2019. After rehab, Romero made his MLB debut in 2020. But after making three appearances, he broke his wrist falling down the steps.
Last season, Romero started on the 60-day injured list with a calf injury. He made six minor league starts.
Romero’s time with the Nationals ends with three MLB appearances, carrying a 13.50 ERA in 2 2/3 innings pitched.
