The Boston Red Sox are signing slugging first baseman Nathanial Lowe after he had been designated for assignment by the Nationals last week in favor of younger players, ESPN.com reported. Lowe, 30, will join one of the most potent offenses in baseball with Boston in the midst of a tight American League playoff race.

Boston also recalled outfielder/infielder Nate Eaton from Triple-A Worcester, placed outfielder Rob Refsnyder (left oblique strain) on the 10-day IL and designated catcher Ali Sánchez for assignment. Sánchez spent six games on the active roster as a third catcher, recording just one plate appearance.

Cora made good on that final promise on Monday night, as Lowe came in to pinch-hit in the ninth inning against Baltimore Orioles closer Yennier Cano. He drew a seven-pitch walk and scored on a Jarren Duran double, but Boston still lost 6-3.