Thornton has been claimed off waivers by the Nationals, ESPN New York reports. Thornton, who was placed on waivers by the Yankees, is under contract for $3.5 million next season. He'll provide immediate help in the bullpen after posting a healthy 2.55 ERA in 24.2 innings for the Yankees. Over the past two seasons (40.0 cumulative innings), Thornton has racked up 29 strikeouts without allowing a home run.