The Nationals optioned Pinckney to Triple-A Rochester on Tuesday.
With James Wood (oblique) expected to return from the injured list Wednesday, the Nationals will send Pinckney down to Triple-A to free up a roster spot. The 25-year-old performed well during his first stint with the big club, going 6-for-22 with a homer, two RBI, six runs and a steal while appearing in 13 games.